Profoto has done it again. Now, the company has made small tweaks to its smallest flash to create the next-gen A1X AirTTL Studio Light. This camera-mounted strobe made a huge splash when it was first launched, supporting Canon or Nikon TTL systems and high-speed sync. Now, while there is, in fact, improved performance, the biggest news is that Profoto is bringing this advanced speedlight to Sony.
The A1X will deliver the same amazing light quality that the original light featured, thanks to its rounded head and various light-shaping tools. The upgrades come to performance. Most appreciated is a new Li-Ion Battery Pack that is rated for 450 full-power flashes on a single charge—that’s 100 more than its predecessor. Also, it will recycle in just 1 second flat, has 20 wireless channels compared to 8, and the interface more closely resembles the B10.
Getting into the general specifications, the A1X offers AirTTL and HSS, a magnetic mount for A1 Light Shaping Tools, an LED modeling light, and a built-in Air Remote for working with other fixtures. It also comes with a bounce card and dome diffuser. The A1X AirTTL Studio Light will be available for Canon, Nikon, and Sony systems. A new Off-Camera Kit is being made, as well, which includes the A1X and a Connect Trigger for quickly and easily moving the flash off-camera. This will also be made in Canon, Nikon, and Sony varieties.
In another fun turn of events, Profoto is bringing the 20 channels found in the A1X to many of their other Air-compatible lights. This will help limit interference in busy venues. Firmware updates will be made available for the original A1, B10, D2, and Connect, meaning that all these existing lights and the new A1X can be folded together into elaborate setups with ease. Instructions can be found on My Profoto for registered products or in the Profoto mobile app for select lights.
Are you excited about the upgraded A1X? Ready to add it to your kit? Please be sure to stop by the Comments section, below, to share your thoughts on this release.
