Metz 58 AF-2

My 58-1 finally gave up last week, the zoom had stopped working a long time ago (tried everything to fix it but no luck). It stopped working in PTTL mode the flash would always fire at full power. Auto and manual were ok but intermittent, after testing it a K-5 and K-10 decided it was a fault with the hotshoe communication, so I ordered a 58 AF-2 from SRS.

There is a £84 premium for the AF-2 over the AF-1 but I am hoping the claimed improvements in zoom motor, flash tube and metal base would be worth it.

The new metal base is a very big improvement over the old model – it just slips straight on and off and locks positively into place, the old model was difficult to remove and had to be wiggled/twisted to remove it. I was always afraid I would damage the camera hotshoe or the flash base (guess I probably did :roll

Maybe I got a ‘Friday afternoon’ AF-1 but the AF-2 seems to be much more dependable.

If you are happy with your AF-1 then I doubt the up-grade is worth it, but I certainly feel a lot more confidant in AF-2 than I ever was with the AF-1.

Good to know,thanks. I have an AF-1 and think it's great. More features than Pentax options and cheaper to boot. Though I can see the need for a weather-sealed impact-resistant model, I am sure it would be twice the price. Upgrading the hot shoe mount is a good thing since I too worry about the contacts.