I'm looking to save a bit of cash by getting some used stuff. I know to avoid Quantum batteries and other batteries too. You never know how someone treated them. I bought a Pelican case last year, used. That's a good example of an okay thing to buy used. Now is the tough part. Would anyone recommend (or not recommend) buying a Quantum Q-Flash or a Lumedyne system used?

-- Colin Miller (ckmiller@pond.net), March 17, 2001

Answers

I would be careful with batteries. The flash units might be ok, but the battery packs can be tricky. I say this because I was on the selling end of a similar situation: I sold an old Norman 200B unit that was working fine when I mailed it. The buyer said it didn't work. He returned it and it looks as though one of the battery packs was opened and the power supply was disassembled (perhaps to explore for the problem). It still isn't resolved. These are delicate items and can be damaged in transit. I think it is best if buying used to be able to see the unit and check it out.

-- Todd Frederick (fredrick@hotcity.com), March 18, 2001.