New generation of system flash units

Photo and videolight specialist Metz is set to unveil a new generation of compact system flash units at photokina 2016 with the new Metz mecablitz M400.

Zirndorf- Metz launches the mecablitz M400, a system flash unit that impresses in particular with its compact build. The M400 is over 30 per cent more compact compared with traditional flash units*. The specially developed M400 is extremely well-suited to all photographers and videographers who expect a high performance flash unit which is also compact. The reliable, high-performance flash thus appeals to amateur and professional photographers alike.

Achieving a high guide number of 40 (ISO 100/21°, maximum focal length), the unit can cope with almost any shooting scenario. The mecablitz M400 features AUTO TTL mode, i.e. the camera controls the flash unit completely automatically – making it perfect for flash novices. Depending on the camera, the mecablitz M400 with master and slave mode also offers wireless TTL flash. This allows the flash units to be activated and controlled off-camera via optical signals. The M400 comes with an adjustable LED video light for illuminating video recordings or checking shadow. Additional versatile lighting possibilities are opened up by the swivel reflector, the reflector card and the wide-angle diffuser.

Uncompromisingly compact high performance

The Metz mecatech development team has succeeded in developing a system flash unit in a more compact casing. Mr Jouhki, CEO of Metz mecatech GmbH emphasises: “The camera casing is generally more compact with mirrorless cameras. Hence the demand we’re seeing for a compact flash unit that has an attractive design but does not compromise on performance and features.”

High speed synchronisation (HSS and FP)

With high speed synchronisation, the user can flash with shutter speeds that are shorter than the flash sync time of the camera. As a result, flash photos with wide focal aperture are possible in high ambient light levels, for example in order to limit the depth of field in portrait shots.

Unique operating concept

The new Metz mecablitz M400 impresses with its very clear, well-organized user interface and the innovative OLED display, which provides a clear overview of all the relevant information such as the flash settings.

Fully compatible

Like all mecablitz system flash units, this new flash is perfectly tailored to digital cameras made by leading manufacturers. Variants are available for Canon, Nikon, Olympus/Panasonic/Leica, Pentax, Sony and Fujifilm.

Ready for the future

To ensure that the unit is always up to date, software updates can be conveniently downloaded via the USB interface (micro). Therefore, the Metz mecablitz M400 will remain compatible with any new camera models launched onto the market.

“Made in Germany”, of course.

The new system flash unit from Metz has been developed and manufactured exclusively in Germany, thus reinforcing the consistent philosophy employed by the company.

* e.g., Metz mecablitz 44 AF-2

Technical specifications

Flash output

• High max. guide number 40 for ISO 100 and 105 mm

Features

• unique operating concept with OLED-display

• Swivel reflector

• Reflector card

• Integrated wide-angle diffuser for 12 mm illumination

• Motorised zoom for 24 – 105 mm illumination

• Modelling light (permanent light for checking shadows)

• Metal base* with quick lock

Video light

• High-performance LED video light

• 100 Lux / 1 m

• Adjustable in 6 increments

Flash functions

• TTL-flash mode (digital only)

• Manual flash mode with 25 partial lighting levels

• Master and Slave-Mode

• Servo flash mode with learning function

• HSS – high speed synchronization**

• 1st and 2nd shutter curtain synchronisation**

• Automatic fill-in flash

• Pre-flash for red-eye reduction**

Power supply

• 4 x AAA alkaline-magnesium or lithium batteries

• 4 x AAA NiMH rechargeable batteries

Availability

Available in stores from the end of September (Versions: Canon, Nikon, Sony). The

versions for Olympus/Panasonic, Pentax, Fujifilm will follow.

* Not for version Sony Multi Interface

** Dependent on camera function

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About Metz mecatech GmbH

Metz – the traditional brand stands for high-class products, excellent service and trendsetting innovations. Under new management, the company extends its business continually at the ancestral location in Zirndorf. For more than 75 years now, we have been developing and producing in Germany. This central point of all our activities is the philosophy which has made Metz strong: Made in Germany.