Minolta/Konica Minolta/Sony Alpha flashes

Please note that this page only provides technical information. This is not an online shop. Don't send requests for price quotes etc. I can not sell you anything that's listed here.

This is a tech data sheet of all Minolta/Konica Minolta/Sony Alpha flashes. All flashes are listed, including older versions.

Flashes are color-coded as follows:

Announced flash

Current flash

Discontinued flash

Brands are highlighted as follows:

Minolta, Konica Minolta

Sony

Whenever there's a “?” or empty space in the table, I do not know the data. If you have that specific flash, or when you have a model not listed yet, and you can provide the data, please contact me and I'll update the table as soon as possible.

Data for announced products should be considered preliminary. Exact data often isn't known until after the actual release. You should not rely on data for announced products to be correct.

Also read my Minolta/Sony Flash Compendium for further information about the Minolta AF/Sony Alpha flash system.

Contributors

The following people have contributed to this page:

Hans-Peter Braun, Marcin Fal, Klaus Ipsen, Matthias Paul, Miguel Rodriguez, Leo van Dam, Magnus Wedberg

Thanks to all!

Last update: January 13th, 2024

Dedicated Flashes

Image	Name	Release year	max. GN [m]	GN at 50mm [m]	Digital ready	Shoe type	Zoom range [mm] (with wide angle adapter)	Manual zoom stops [mm]	Auto zoom	Auto zoom adjust	Tilt [deg.]	Swivel [deg.]	Wireless flash, optical (remote, mode CTRL+/CTRL1)	Wireless flash, optical (remote, mode CTRL/CTRL2)	Wireless flash, optical (controller, mode CTRL+/CTRL1)	Wireless flash, optical (controller, mode CTRL/CTRL2)	Wireless channels, optical	Wireless flash, radio (remote)	Wireless flash, radio (remote, on FA-WRR1)	Wireless flash, radio (controller)	Wireless channels, radio	Manual mode	Manual power levels (steps)	HSS	Wireless HSS	ADI	AF assist light	Modeling flash	Stroboscopic flash	White balance assist	Test button	LED intensity [lx @ 1 m]	LED focal length [mm]	LED color temp. [K] (w/ color filter)	CFs	Cable socket	Flash Control from body	Batteries	External battery pack	Standard accessories	Optional accessories	Weather sealing	Comments	Reviews & links
	Sony HVL-F58AM	2008	58	42	yes	iISO	24 – 105 (16)	24, 28, 35, 50, 70, 105	yes	yes	−10 – 150	−90 – 90	yes	yes	yes	yes	4	no	yes	no	–	yes	1/1 – 1/32 (1/1)	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	–	–	–	8	built-in	no	4× AA	EP-1 (6× C), EP-2 (6× AA), FA-EB1AM (6× AA)	mini stand, pouch	–	no	built-in bounce sheet	–
	Sony HVL-F56AM	2006	56	44	yes	iISO	24 – 85 (17)	24, 28, 35, 50, 70, 85	yes	no	−10 – 90	−180 – 90	no	yes	no	yes	4	no	no	no	–	yes	1/1 – 1/32 (1/1)	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	no	yes	–	–	–	5	built-in	no	4× AA	EP-1 (6× C), EP-2 (6× AA), FA-EB1AM (6× AA)	MS-2, pouch	Bounce Reflector V	no	identical to 5600HS(D)	–
	Minolta 5600HS(D)	2000	56	44	yes	iISO	24 – 85 (17)	24, 28, 35, 50, 70, 85	yes	no	−10 – 90	−180 – 90	no	yes	no	yes	4	no	no	no	–	yes	1/1 – 1/32 (1/1)	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	no	yes	–	–	–	5	built-in	no	4× AA	EP-1 (6× C), EP-2 (6× AA), FA-EB1AM (6× AA)	MS-2, pouch	Bounce Reflector V	no	–	–
	Minolta 5400HS	1993	54	42	no	iISO	24 – 105	24, 28, 35, 50, 70, 85, 105	yes	no	0 – 90	−180 – 90	no	yes	no	yes	4	no	no	no	–	yes	1/1 – 1/32 (1/1)	yes	no	no	yes	yes	yes	no	no	–	–	–	–	built-in	no	4× AA	EP-1 (6× C), EP-2 (6× AA), FA-EB1AM (6× AA)	MS-2, pouch	Bounce Reflector III	no	–	Kurt Munger on Photo Jottings (full review)
	Minolta 5400xi	1992	54	42	no	iISO	24 – 105	24, 28, 35, 50, 70, 85, 105	yes	no	0 – 90	−180 – 90	no	yes	no	yes	4	no	no	no	–	yes	1/1 – 1/32	no	no	no	yes	no	yes	no	no	–	–	–	–	built-in	no	4× AA	EP-1 (6× C), EP-2 (6× AA), FA-EB1AM (6× AA)	MS-2, pouch	Bounce Reflector III	no	–	–
Image	Name	Release year	max. GN [m]	GN at 50mm [m]	Digital ready	Shoe type	Zoom range [mm] (with wide angle adapter)	Manual zoom stops [mm]	Auto zoom	Auto zoom adjust	Tilt [deg.]	Swivel [deg.]	Wireless flash, optical (remote, mode CTRL+/CTRL1)	Wireless flash, optical (remote, mode CTRL/CTRL2)	Wireless flash, optical (controller, mode CTRL+/CTRL1)	Wireless flash, optical (controller, mode CTRL/CTRL2)	Wireless channels, optical	Wireless flash, radio (remote)	Wireless flash, radio (remote, on FA-WRR1)	Wireless flash, radio (controller)	Wireless channels, radio	Manual mode	Manual power levels (steps)	HSS	Wireless HSS	ADI	AF assist light	Modeling flash	Stroboscopic flash	White balance assist	Test button	LED intensity [lx @ 1 m]	LED focal length [mm]	LED color temp. [K] (w/ color filter)	CFs	Cable socket	Flash Control from body	Batteries	External battery pack	Standard accessories	Optional accessories	Weather sealing	Comments	Reviews & links
	Minolta 5200i	1990	52	42	no	iISO	24 – 85	24, 28, 35, 50, 70, 85	yes	no	0 – 90	−180 – 90	no	no	no	no	–	no	no	no	–	yes	1/1 – 1/32 (1/1)	no	no	no	yes	no	yes	no	no	–	–	–	–	built-in	no	4× AA	EP-1 (6× C), EP-2 (6× AA), FA-EB1AM (6× AA)	pouch	Bounce Reflector III	no	white-finish special edition available (released with white 8000i)	–
	Sony HVL-F43AM	2011	43	30	yes	iISO	24 – 105 (15)	24, 28, 35, 50, 70, 105	yes	yes	−8 – 150	−90 – 90	yes	yes	yes	yes	4	no	yes	no	–	yes	1/1 – 1/128 (1/2, 1/3)	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	–	–	–	9	via OS-1100 or FA-CS1AM	no	4× AA	–	mini stand, pouch	–	yes	built-in bounce sheet	–
	Sony HVL-F42AM	2008	42	30	yes	iISO	24 – 105 (16)	24, 28, 35, 50, 70, 105	yes	yes	0 – 90	−90 – 180	yes	yes	no	no	2	no	yes	no	–	yes	1/1 – 1/32 (1/1)	yes	yes	yes	yes	no	no	yes	yes	–	–	–	5	via OS-1100 or FA-CS1AM	no	4× AA	–	MS-2, pouch	–	no	–	–
	Sony HVL-F36AM	2006	36	29	yes	iISO	24 – 85 (17)	24, 28, 35, 50, 85	yes	no	0 – 90	–	no	yes	no	no	2	no	no	no	–	no	–	yes	yes	yes	yes	no	no	no	no	–	–	–	2	via OS-1100 or FA-CS1AM	no	4× AA	–	MS-2, pouch, wide angle adapter	Bounce Reflector V	no	identical to 3600HS(D)	–
	Minolta 3600HS(D)	2000	36	29	yes	iISO	24 – 85 (17)	24, 28, 35, 50, 85	yes	no	0 – 90	–	no	yes	no	no	2	no	no	no	–	no	–	yes	yes	yes	yes	no	no	no	no	–	–	–	2	via OS-1100 or FA-CS1AM	no	4× AA	–	MS-2, pouch, wide angle adapter	Bounce Reflector V	no	–	–
Image	Name	Release year	max. GN [m]	GN at 50mm [m]	Digital ready	Shoe type	Zoom range [mm] (with wide angle adapter)	Manual zoom stops [mm]	Auto zoom	Auto zoom adjust	Tilt [deg.]	Swivel [deg.]	Wireless flash, optical (remote, mode CTRL+/CTRL1)	Wireless flash, optical (remote, mode CTRL/CTRL2)	Wireless flash, optical (controller, mode CTRL+/CTRL1)	Wireless flash, optical (controller, mode CTRL/CTRL2)	Wireless channels, optical	Wireless flash, radio (remote)	Wireless flash, radio (remote, on FA-WRR1)	Wireless flash, radio (controller)	Wireless channels, radio	Manual mode	Manual power levels (steps)	HSS	Wireless HSS	ADI	AF assist light	Modeling flash	Stroboscopic flash	White balance assist	Test button	LED intensity [lx @ 1 m]	LED focal length [mm]	LED color temp. [K] (w/ color filter)	CFs	Cable socket	Flash Control from body	Batteries	External battery pack	Standard accessories	Optional accessories	Weather sealing	Comments	Reviews & links
	Minolta 3500xi	1991	35	29	no	iISO	28 – 105	28, 50, 105	yes	no	0 – 90	–	no	yes	no	no	2	no	no	no	–	no	–	no	no	no	yes	no	no	no	no	–	–	–	–	via OS-1100 or FA-CS1AM	no	4× AA	–	MS-2, pouch	Bounce Reflector IV	no	–	–
	Minolta 3200i	1988	32	28	no	iISO	28 – 85	–	yes	no	–	–	no	no	no	no	–	no	no	no	–	no	–	no	no	no	yes	no	no	no	no	–	–	–	–	via OS-1100 or FA-CS1AM	no	4× AA	–	pouch	–	no	–	–
	Minolta 2500(D)	2003	25	25	yes	iISO	28	–	no	no	0 – 90	–	no	no	no	no	–	no	no	no	–	no	–	no	no	yes	yes	no	no	no	no	–	–	–	–	via OS-1100 or FA-CS1AM	no	4× AA	–	pouch	–	no	–	–
	Sony HVL-F20AM	2009	20	20	yes	iISO	27 – 50	27, 50	no	no	0 – 75	–	no	no	no	yes	1	no	no	no	–	no	–	no	yes	yes	no	no	no	yes	no	–	–	–	–	via OS-1100 or FA-CS1AM	no	2× AAA	–	pouch	–	no	see Flash Compendium for compatibility	–
	Minolta Vectis SF-1	1996	20	20	no	iISO	28	–	no	no	–	–	no	no	no	no	–	no	no	no	–	no	–	no	no	no	yes	no	no	no	no	–	–	–	–	via OS-1100 or FA-CS1AM	no	2× CR2	–	wide angle adapter, pouch	–	yes	–	–
Image	Name	Release year	max. GN [m]	GN at 50mm [m]	Digital ready	Shoe type	Zoom range [mm] (with wide angle adapter)	Manual zoom stops [mm]	Auto zoom	Auto zoom adjust	Tilt [deg.]	Swivel [deg.]	Wireless flash, optical (remote, mode CTRL+/CTRL1)	Wireless flash, optical (remote, mode CTRL/CTRL2)	Wireless flash, optical (controller, mode CTRL+/CTRL1)	Wireless flash, optical (controller, mode CTRL/CTRL2)	Wireless channels, optical	Wireless flash, radio (remote)	Wireless flash, radio (remote, on FA-WRR1)	Wireless flash, radio (controller)	Wireless channels, radio	Manual mode	Manual power levels (steps)	HSS	Wireless HSS	ADI	AF assist light	Modeling flash	Stroboscopic flash	White balance assist	Test button	LED intensity [lx @ 1 m]	LED focal length [mm]	LED color temp. [K] (w/ color filter)	CFs	Cable socket	Flash Control from body	Batteries	External battery pack	Standard accessories	Optional accessories	Weather sealing	Comments	Reviews & links
	Minolta 2000xi	1991	20	20	no	iISO	35 (28)	–	no	no	–	–	no	no	no	no	–	no	no	no	–	no	–	no	no	no	yes	no	no	no	no	–	–	–	–	via OS-1100 or FA-CS1AM	no	4× AA	–	wide angle adapter, pouch	–	no	–	–
	Minolta 2000i	1989	20	20	no	iISO	?	–	no	no	–	–	no	no	no	no	–	no	no	no	–	no	–	no	no	no	yes	no	no	no	no	–	–	–	–	via OS-1100 or FA-CS1AM	no	4× AA	–	?, pouch	–	no	–	–
	Minolta D-316i	1988	16	16	no	iISO	35	–	no	no	–	–	no	no	no	no	–	no	no	no	–	no	–	no	no	no	yes	no	no	no	no	–	–	–	–	–	no	–	–	pouch	–	no	for Dynax/Maxxum 3000i only, powered by camera	–
	Minolta D-314i	1988	14	14	no	iISO	35	–	no	no	–	–	no	no	no	no	–	no	no	no	–	no	–	no	no	no	yes	no	no	no	no	–	–	–	–	–	no	–	–	pouch	–	no	for Dynax/Maxxum 3000i only, powered by camera	–

NEX Flashes

— No entries —

Macro Flashes

Name	Release year	max. GN [m]	GN at 50mm [m]	Digital ready	Shoe type	Angle of illumination (with wide angle adapter)	Manual mode	Manual power levels (steps)	AF assist light	Modeling flash	White balance assist	Test button	CFs	Cable socket	Batteries	External battery pack	Standard accessories	Optional accessories	Weather sealing	Comments	Reviews & links
Sony Macro Twin Flash Kit HVL-MT24AM	2006	2× 12	2× 12	yes	iISO	45° × 60° (60° × 78°)	yes	1/1 – 1/64 (1/1), 1/1 – 1/8 (1/2)	no	yes	no	yes	4	via OS-1100 or FA-CS1AM	4× AA	–	adapter rings 49 mm and 55 mm, WA adapters, diffusors, pouch	FA-MA1AM	no	identical to Macro Twin Flash 2400, except for the missing ring flash socket!	–
Minolta Macro Twin Flash 2400	2001	2× 12	2× 12	yes	iISO	45° × 60° (60° × 78°)	yes	1/1 – 1/64 (1/1), 1/1 – 1/8 (1/2)	no	yes	no	yes	4	via OS-1100 or FA-CS1AM	4× AA	6V DC	adapter rings 49 mm and 55 mm, WA adapters, diffusors, pouch	adapter ring 72 mm, Sony FA-MA1AM	no	–	Michael Hohner (full review)
Minolta Macro Ring Flash 1200	2001	12	12	yes	iISO	80°	yes	1/1 – 1/64 (1/1), 1/1 – 1/8 (1/2)	yes	no	no	yes	4	via OS-1100 or FA-CS1AM	4× AA	6V DC	adapter rings 49 mm and 55 mm, pouch	adapter ring 72 mm	no	–	–

LED lights

	Image	Name	Release year	Shoe type	Angle of illumination (with wide angle adapter)	Tilt [deg.]	Swivel [deg.]	Manual mode	Manual power levels (steps)	LED intensity [lx @ 1 m]	LED focal length [mm]	LED color temp. [K] (w/ color filter)	Batteries	External battery pack	Standard accessories	Optional accessories	Weather sealing	Comments	Reviews & links
		Sony HVL-LE1	2012	iISO	30°	yes	–	yes	10% – 100%, stepless	450	70	5500 (3200)	4× AA, 1× M series LiIon, 1× V series LiIon	–	diffusor, color conversion filter, barn doors, iSO and ISO shoe adapters, pouch	–	no	shoe adapters attach to ¼″ threads	–

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Readers' comments

#1: Comment posted by Bill on November 28th, 2009 - 02:42:06 AM:
I have a new DSLR Aplha 850 Can I use a Nikon R1C1 twin head wireless flash system on the Alpha? The Nikon flash system has more flexibility than the Sony wireless MT24AM. Are the flash operating technologies compatible? Thank you. Bill

Michael Hohner answers:
The flash systems of the various makers are completely different worlds for many years. Nikon flashes do not work on Sony cameras.

#2: Comment posted by José Luz on March 7th, 2010 - 01:19:09 AM:
Hello, i have a Sony alpha A380. I whant to use a minolta flash program 3500xi and a Minolta Maxixium 5200i. I made a test and booth flash worked, but not as Auto or in mode wirless. I would like to know if is possible to work with booth flash, in Auto mode or wirless mode. Thank you José Luz

Michael Hohner answers:
In short, these flashes will be of very limited use on the A380. Please see the F.A.Q. list for details.

#3: Comment posted by Don Scott on April 9th, 2010 - 04:05:41 AM:
Greetings Michael, I have a Sony A700. Is my Sony HVL-F32X compatible? I don't see the flash listed here. Thanks, Don

Michael Hohner answers:
The HVL-F32X is not compatible with the Alpha system, despite the similar name. It's a flash for some higer level digicams, like the DSC-F828.

#4: Comment posted by elmer on May 11th, 2010 - 10:05:48 PM:
how can i use my HVL-F32X flash into my Alpha 100? thanks

Michael Hohner answers:
The short answer is, you can't. This flash was not made for the Alpha system, but for a few higher-end Cybershot cameras.

#5: Comment posted by Matt on July 27th, 2010 - 01:23:03 PM:
Hi I have a Sony a2oo and have just bought the f42am flashgun. Is there a way of turning off the camera inbuilt flash? I know the pop up flash has to be up to use the wireless feature. Many thanks

Michael Hohner answers:
There's a “flash off mode”, see page 74 of the manual.

#6: Comment posted by Louise B on August 2nd, 2010 - 04:49:25 PM:
Hi I have a Sony A200 and want a flash to work with it, have been looking at the older minolta ones, will these work with the A200 or will I need an adapter, and if so which ones? Thanks L

Michael Hohner answers:
Please read the F.A.Q. list.

#7: Comment posted by rbyellow5 on September 1st, 2010 - 02:21:56 AM:
I have a sony a100 and saw recently the sony hvl-f1000 but could not find any info on it anywhere. Do you know if this will work with the camera?

Michael Hohner answers:
The HVL-F1000 can not be used with Sony DSLRs. Like the HVL-F32X, it's made for some Cybershot cameras.

#8: Comment posted by Raul Costa on September 9th, 2010 - 05:57:28 PM:
When using a A200 with the flash (on the menu) in TTL, the flash (for example a Minolta 5400xi) respects the information of the camera or is always full flash?

Michael Hohner answers:
The 5400xi on a DSLR will always fire at full power or the preset manual power level. You need a digital compatible flash for automatic flash output control with DSLRs. Please read the F.A.Q. list for more information.

#9: Comment posted by Chai on October 7th, 2010 - 05:29:08 PM:
Any other adapter ring 72mm that can be fit on Sony Alpha Macro Twin Flash Kit HVL-MT24A because it hard to get Minolta adapter ring.

Michael Hohner answers:
Have you checked the notice at the end of my Twin Flash Review?

#10: Comment posted by Brian on October 24th, 2010 - 02:30:53 AM:
Is it possible to add a page which shows the definition/description for each column? In searchign for a minolta flash for my new Sony a33 I don't know if for example, becuse it's not digital ready... will it work? Thanks for all your work on this page.

Michael Hohner answers:

Please note the question mark next to some of the column headers. You can click on them to open a popup explaining the column. For even longer explanations please see the Flash Compendium linked at the top of this page. The Flash Compedium explains the Minolta/Sony flash system in detail and contains a full page about flash with DLSRs.

To answer the question directly, flashes marked as not digital ready are not fully compatible with DLSRs.

#11: Comment posted by donna on October 28th, 2010 - 11:18:02 PM:

hi can anyone help me,i have just bought a minolta dynax 404si camera for my daughter it has a built in flash but has a foot at the top this is a dynax 404si maxxum st si manual im working on and dont have a clue to what other flashes fit this camera,i was givin a jessops 280af booklet and i still dont know as i am abit thick when it comes to cameras lol,can anyone suggest a flash or knows a website i can buy one from thanks donna

Michael Hohner answers:
All flashes with the Minolta/Sony hotshoe should work with this camera. Of the original Minolta flashes I'd avoid the oldest series (the one with the old hotshoe). There are many third-party flashes that should work as well. Just make sure it has the Minolta hotshoe and not the Canon or Nikon hotshoe.

#12: Comment posted by Michael on February 19th, 2011 - 09:09:51 AM:
Hi there. Is it possible to understand why a 5200i will sync up to 1/250s when mounted on my A700 or via a oc-1100 but only syncs up to 1/50 using a radio trigger? Any clues? Thanks.

Michael Hohner answers:
That's probably because of delay added by the radio trigger.

#13: Comment posted by Gaye on February 20th, 2011 - 07:08:02 AM:

Hi there. I now use the Sony A700 for all my work (mainly portraits). In our Minolta Cupboard there are a collection of nice old flashes, namely: 4000AF, 5400Hs, 3500xi. I have an adaptor so all fit the A700. I know this is a huge question, but would someone list just what use (if any) each flash unit will be for the A700. I have consulted your impressive Flash Table, realise these flashes are not digital ready and wonder am I restricted to only off-camera use? I particularly love the tilt and swivel on the 4000AF & 5400HS and nostagically adore the retro look of the BIG 4000 - makes you look like you really mean business, so I'd like to be able to use on camera. Many thanks to whoever has the time, knowledge and inclination to provide some answers.

Michael Hohner answers:
Please have a look at the Flash Compendium.

#14: Comment posted by Ian Linden on February 20th, 2011 - 02:57:02 PM:
This chart from Sony Asia Pacific Support will supply all the information: http://www.sony-asia.com/subtype/checkcompatibility/asset/206669/product/dslr-a700

#15: Comment posted by Gaye on February 21st, 2011 - 01:20:18 AM:
Thank you very much, Michael and Ian - your links provided relevant information. Am using the Minolta 3600HSD on camera now but it's limited. Guess I have to start saving for something like the Sony HVL-F58AM - any other advice would be appreciated.

#16: Comment posted by itay dollinger on April 4th, 2011 - 03:26:47 AM:
I have a Sony HVL-F58AM and a Minolta 5600HS D and found them not to be compatible in wireless mode. Will the HVL-58AM trigger the Sony version HVL-F56AM? In the above table you indicate that the sony HVL-F56AM is identical to the Minolta 5600HS. Thanks

Michael Hohner answers:
See the Flash Compendium. The HVL-F58AM will trigger the 5600HS(D) when used on a A850 or A900 and when in mode CTRL2.

#17: Comment posted by Berthold Dwinger on July 20th, 2011 - 09:24:56 PM:
I own a Minolta 7000i which I love but need a flash for it. Will the auto 32 fit the bill ? All help much appreciated.

Michael Hohner answers:
That is a flash for the old SR mount system, not for AF cameras. The compatible flashes are listed above. All except the ones from the first series (1800AF, 2800AF, 4000AF) fit directly on the 7000i. Also see the Flash Compendium.

#18: Comment posted by Pirate! on August 16th, 2011 - 06:30:10 PM:

I have an A850 and have just bought a Minolta 5600HS(D) which I'm awaiting delivery of. Am I right in saying that it's essentially identical to the Sony HVL-F56AM as I was looking for a .pdf user manual and have downloaded the Sony version.

If this is correct, will the 5600(D) act as a master trigger flash or should I have opted for the 5800(D) as I also have a Sony HVL-F42AM gun as well which I was hoping to use as a slave flash.

Thank you.

Mark

Michael Hohner answers:
Yes, the 5600HS(D) and the HVL-F56AM are technically identical. But they will not act as a wireless controller on DSLRs, only on film SLRs. See the Flash Compendium for details. The HVL-F58AM will be usable as a wireless controller on the A850 (there is no 5800(D)).

#19: Comment posted by tony sands on August 17th, 2011 - 01:20:58 PM:

Hi
I am recent fan of Minolta film stuff working with Hi res scans of Ektar 100 and have acquired a Dynax 9 and a Dynax 7 plus two 5400HS and a 3500xi. All my kit seems OK with on and off camera flashes I bought a wireless flash controller that seem to be in perfect order, set all channels and settings as recomended,and .........Zipp.... Nothing works. Am I missing something.

The instructions with the controller state it is for 9xi but I believe it should work with my cameras. Is there a way I can test it.
TS

Michael Hohner answers:
AFAIK it should work. Make sure both controller and remote flash are on the same channel (the 3500xi supports only 2 channels), and the remote flashes are switched to wireless mode.

#20: Comment posted by tony sands on August 17th, 2011 - 06:03:05 PM:
Yup everything on channel one and set W/L. Does controller emit a visible 'infrared' signal since there is nothing to see in the controller front window when triggered. Thanks for earlier response. TS

Michael Hohner answers:
I've never used the wireless controller, and I don't know if and how much one can see of the control signal. Have you cleaned the contacts and made sure they properly connect with the camera?

#21: Comment posted by tony sands on August 18th, 2011 - 04:44:25 PM:

Tested controller at favorite camera shop today and although everything on the back lights up and looks OK there is no infrared signal when triggered so repair man is checking for loose wires.
Apparently it does not flash or illuminate so there is nothing to see but we had an IR detector in the form of the shop's CCTV camera to check it out. Apparently some CCTV cameras show up IR like burglar alarms!! Whatever next!!

Above for info. Thanks for a brill site for Minolta users.A+++

#22: Comment posted by tony sands on September 18th, 2011 - 01:46:52 PM:

Hi
Just an update on the controller issue. My repair man foung a failed contact with the chip and repaired it for a 20 quid labour charge. Very reasonable and all is now perfect. For info, the controller does flash a red light when activated so it is possible to see that if it is functioning.
First home studio trials with my three flashes but without the usual wires and no need for flash meter readings were a real treat.

#23: Comment posted by tony sands on September 19th, 2011 - 12:23:54 PM:

Hi Michael and Minolta flash followers.

I simply have to tell somebody about my recent experiment and this forum seems appropriate.
Most of my film work has been medium format with studio flashes all wired or triggered and capable of being individually and collectively flash metered. I have regularly used my old and trusty Olympus E20 digital instead of Polariod to check the lighting set up before the shoot simply by switching the flash cable, and also to give me a TIFF or big jpeg as backup/record.
Trouble with the Minolta flashes is that the preflash for monitoring obviates metering and the dedicated IR controller does not work with the E20 ...... so...... yesterday ...... this worked well.
Set wireless flashes in postion as required for the shoot, set E 20 in Manual to bulb and to same aperture as Dynax 9, kill studio lights, open E20 shutter, fire Dynax shutter.

Bingo, big TIFF and accurate lighting check without a meter.

Because the Minolta TTL is off a film surface I loaded the Dynax 9 with a used film of same ASA rating and swapped it for the Dynax 7 for the actual shoot rather than waste a shot or two. It sounds a bit tricky but after a few times the routine settled in and it worked for me.

TS.

#24: Comment posted by Cesar Hugo Storero on November 16th, 2011 - 10:35:14 PM:

Cuento con una Camara Sony Alpha 380, mi tomas favoritas son los colibriés, por lo tanto necesito alta velocidad 1/1000 para arriba y no superar los isos 400 por cuestión del fastidioso ruido; por suerte encontré esta página y mis dudas se disiparon un poco; por error adquirí recientemente el flash Alpha HVL-F20AM pero al no ser HSS no supera los 1/160 que brinda la maquina.-
Va la consulta: me recomendarías en este caso el Sony Alpha HVL-F58AM.-
Desde ya muy agradecido.-
Saludos.-

Michael Hohner answers:

The HVL-F58AM is certainly a good flash. But you may also get good hummingbird shots by using a longer exposure time and medium aperture at low ambient light (i. e. there is little ambient exposure) and then stop the bird's motion with the flash. The actual flash duration is typically much shorter than 1/1000.

If you can not influence the ambient light level, HSS may help. Also consider the HVL-F43AM as an alternative.

#25: Comment posted by Maria on December 16th, 2011 - 10:45:50 PM:
The battery case cover (flap) is cracked on my minolta 2000xi. Please help How can i fix it? or can it be fix? Thanks

Michael Hohner answers:
This is going to be difficult. This flash is a 20 year old model, and there are likely no more replacement parts. It will probably be easier to get a working replacement.

#26: Comment posted by Nathan on February 7th, 2012 - 09:23:30 PM:
Hi, I have a Sony A200 and am really struggling to find where I can purchase any entry level flashes (sony or minolta) from in the UK, any ideas and what's recommended for a keen photographer looking to start shooting weddings? Many thanks for any advice offered.

Michael Hohner answers:
I don't know where to best buy a flash in the UK. Have you checked Amazon? Flashes compatible with the A200 are marked with "yes" in the "digital ready" column above. Also please read the F.A.Q. and the Flash Compedium.

#27: Comment posted by Nicolae on April 22nd, 2012 - 01:23:37 PM:
Hello, Great site, congratulations.I bought 2 Minolta flash. I have a Sony A77, want to make some shoots with bouth flash.I put them in Wrelles mode CH-1 but is working just one.Any idea where is the problem.I'm not so familiar with Minolta/Sony. Thanks in advantage for all help that becoming!

Michael Hohner answers:
Please check first in the Flash Compendium if your flashes are compatible. Unfortunately you didn't say which flashes you have.

#28: Comment posted by Mark J Kopczewski on February 24th, 2013 - 06:34:13 PM:

Would it be possible to include the likes of the Marumi DRF-14 and it's re-branded Delta DRF-14 S ringflashes? Albeit the Marumi is discontinued, the Delta is freely available and works a treat on DSLR but not SLT.

That said, I'm assuming they won't be listed because they're not Sony/Minolta branded as you'll then have to include all other 3rd party guns. Just a thought as I'm sure many looking for such a flash may not even know it exists.

Michael Hohner answers:
As you say it, with time and resources being scarce, I have to limit what appears on these pages and what doesn't. Currently the limit is the Minolta and Sony brands.

#29: Comment posted by Don Scott on March 16th, 2013 - 10:12:52 PM:
Hi Michael, Great site. I understand that the following, 5400HS, 5400xi, and 5200i, will not operate fully with an a700 and a a550. My question is, will they operate on manual and can I use them just like the old days when nothing was automatic (I'm 73 and have used everything, I think). Also, love your country! Cheers, Don

Michael Hohner answers:
It's true, these flashes do work as expected in manual mode on digital cameras, but not in automatic mode.

#30: Comment posted by Don Scott on March 18th, 2013 - 12:16:23 AM:
Thanks Michael, You certainly do not receive the credit you are due for this site. You seem to know when you are talking to a technical person or a person with limited or no technical expertise and answer accordingly. My answers to many questions would be shorter and sharper, which is why your site is successful and I don't try to write one. Many Thanks, Don

#31: Comment posted by Gary Miller on April 9th, 2013 - 05:57:51 AM:

HVL-F20am update? Michael - Researching for my A57 I ran into this page on Sony's Middle East site that says that the HVL-F20AM is also capable as a wireless commander on the the SLT-A37/A57 which are not listed in your notes. I wonder if this might mean it would hold true on the A38 as well?

http://www.sony-mea.com/support/resources/en_ME/html/Compatibility/DSLR/Flash/sony/F20AM.html

Great resource! Thanks so much - Gary

Michael Hohner answers:
You are right, the comment is not up to date. The full compatibility matrix is in the Flash Compendium.

#32: Comment posted by Donald on April 25th, 2013 - 12:39:52 AM:
Hi Michael, In my many years of photography, and before the days of wireless triggers, I picked up a lot of old Vivitar flashes (283 & 285 mainly, but some Minolta's as well). Can I use the old strobes with synch cords to pc on my a700 and a550? I couldn't find that answer in your FC (not saying it isn't there). Thanks for a great site.

Michael Hohner answers:
If your flash has a PC sync socket (the 285 does have it), you can always connect it to cameras with a PC sync socket (A700) and get manual flash control.

#33: Comment posted by Donald on June 21st, 2013 - 06:29:02 PM:
Hello Michael, I just purchased a used A77. In reading through your "Flash Compendium" I notice that the 5600HS and the HVL 36 are not compatible with the A77. Must I use both of them as manual flashes, and what is the reason for the communication incompatibility? Thanks again.

Michael Hohner answers:
There must be a misunderstanding. These flashes can not be used as wireless controllers, but on the camera they work just fine with the A77.

#34: Comment posted by Anthony on June 30th, 2013 - 04:29:45 PM:
Just wanted to let you all know with the ADP-AMA the original Minolta AF flashes work with the iISO shoe on the A390 albeit firing with full power-the WL mode works best

#35: Comment posted by Michael Johansson on July 4th, 2013 - 01:20:04 PM:

In the data sheet it say that both the Minolta and the Sony Macro Twin Flash controllers can use a 6 Volt battery pack (or a 6V AC-DC adapter I presume) but it is only the Minolta variant that has the DC terminal. The Sony controller lack the hole in the enclosure where hole should be. Maybe there is a DC-terminal inside as it looks that way when looking into the unit from the dismounted foot end.

I have frequently used a DC 4,5V/2250mA adapter for the Minolta MFC-1000. It works very well. I am now trying to find out if it is possible to use a similar adapter for the Sony Twin Flash controller.

#36: Comment posted by Richard on August 24th, 2013 - 11:18:32 PM:
Hi, you seem to be the man with the knowledge! I have a Konica - Minolta Dynax A200 from eraly 2005 with what looks like an iLSO hotshoe, if I buy a current Sony compatible flash, will that work? Any way to get my Vivitar 285 to work with it? Thanks

Michael Hohner answers:
What surely works are the HVL-F36AM and HVL-F56AM, because these are identical to the Minolta 3600HS(D) and 5600HS(D). The later Sony flashes with iISO shoe should also work, but I have not heard from somebody actually trying. The Vivitar flash can be fired from the camera with an adapter, but there will be no TTL control, only manual flash.

#37: Comment posted by Johan de Moor on October 10th, 2013 - 05:46:58 PM:
So when i understand it right. With the 58am on my 550 or 580 i can use the 43 at ttl wireless???

Michael Hohner answers:
Again, no, you can't. You have to use the built-in flash as the trigger. You can not use one of the dedicated flashes as the trigger.

#38: Comment posted by Johan de Moor on October 10th, 2013 - 06:03:09 PM:
Dear michael On which way can i use my 58 then as master? Or isnt this possible anyway?

Michael Hohner answers:
Not with these cameras. The table in the Flash Compendium lists all possible combinations. Supported cameras are the A700, A850, A900, A37, A57, A58, A65, A77, A99, NEX-6, NEX-7.

#39: Comment posted by dave on October 29th, 2013 - 12:44:07 AM:
michael, truly a labor of love. question... what is not digital ready? will a M?nolta Macro 1200 af not work at all on my a850? btw , i got a minolta 2000i flash which works great w my sigma 600 on the 850. thanx

Michael Hohner answers:
Depends on your definition of “works”. You can mount these flashes, and they will fire. But they will always fire at full power, and with no manual power control on the flash correct exposure is a matter of luck.

#40: Comment posted by Deborah Klein on November 24th, 2013 - 11:57:00 PM:

Hi Michael,
I use an A77 and am in need of a speedlite. I have been weighing all the pros and cons and still not sure which is best. Should I stay with Sony and if I do, is the HVL43AM great for portraits and family shoots or
the Sony HVL-F58AM. I read somewhere that the 58 overheats.

All help appreciated. I was a Nikon user and had an easier time deciding what speedlite. Sold it all because I love the A77.

Thank you for all your help.

Deborah

Michael Hohner answers:
For your purposes the HVL-F43AM will be fine, unless you need the additional features or power of the HVL-F58AM. All compact high-power flashes can overheat when used near maximum output at high flash rates.

#41: Comment posted by Rafael Wachs on December 15th, 2013 - 12:05:21 AM:
I have a Sony A-77 and a Minolta ring flash 1200 AF. I can't synchronize them together.How do I do it?

Michael Hohner answers:
See the F.A.Q.

#42: Comment posted by Gerry Carolan on December 27th, 2013 - 01:20:33 PM:

Hi Michael
Do you know of anyone that will test and repair a Sony F42AM anywhere in Europe. It has had little or no use. It turns on, lights the test button but will not fire either on or off the camera. Have had it with my local Sony repair centre, but was told its not repairable because spare parts are not available for Sony Flash Units. Any idea on an individual or company other than Sony that might repair same ??

Michael Hohner answers:
Sony would have been my best guess. It surprises me they have no spare parts. Maybe somebody else knows.

#43: Comment posted by ray langlois on January 12th, 2014 - 02:12:55 AM:
I have a vivitar 728F autofocus flash and i was wondering if it'd be safe to use on my a35 and a77 ?. It works fine with my maxxum 400 and 600si. Thank you .

Michael Hohner answers:
It's probably safe, but of course it will not offer TTL flash control, etc.

#44: Comment posted by Jakub on February 1st, 2014 - 09:01:09 PM:
I have a underwater camera housing (10 bar) for nex 5n. I want to use flash underwater. The only option is to connect my strobe (se? & sea 90 ys ttl or minolta 5600 hs d) by cable. The problem is there are no adapter between ilSO shoe (in flash) and smart accesory terminal 2. Do you know how to solve the problem? or pins for smart accesory

Michael Hohner answers:
There are third-party adapters from Smart Accessory Terminal to ISO shoe (search for “MSA-10 JJC”). But of course, you will not get TTL flash with this adapter. Under water it's probably not possible to adjust your flash manually. For TTL flash I think there is no solution.

#45: Comment posted by lefteriskor on February 10th, 2014 - 09:45:01 PM:
Good afternoon mr Michael.I have a flash sony hvl f56.Is there any way to use it with my new Sony a58?

Michael Hohner answers:
You need the adapter ADP-MAA, then you can use your flash on your camera without any restriction.

#46: Comment posted by Enrique on March 16th, 2014 - 10:42:12 PM:

i've al ready got my sony twin flash HVL-MT24AM Macro, and i noticed that is so small, comparing to nikon r1 and canon twin flash.. i do dental photography and i was so interested to do photography with bouncers because i saw photographies with canon or nikon with "lumiquest pocket bouncers"
do you think that i can use those bouncers on my flash ? or can you suggest me some other bouncers where i can achieve the same result for my flash.
greetings!
Dr. Enrique Perez

Michael Hohner answers:

At least with the Nikon flash, all the electronics and the batteries seem to be in the flash heads themselves, whereas with the Sony flash the flash heads only contain the actual flash tubes and reflectors, and all the rest is in the controller on the camera. That's why the Nikon flash heads are much bigger.

I'm not sure what you try to achieve with the bouncers. These are intended to be used with a large dedicated flash. With the macro flash you don't need extra bouncers. The macro flash set contains everything you need, especially the wide-angle adapters and the softboxes.

#47: Comment posted by Nelson E. on July 28th, 2014 - 02:13:56 PM:
I just bought a Alpha 58 to use with my old Minolta autofocus lenses and flash. The lenses worked perfecly, but not the 2800AF flash. What do I have to look for?

Michael Hohner answers:
These old flashes don't work well with modern cameras. See the F.A.Q. and the Flash Compendium.

#48: Comment posted by Martin on October 6th, 2014 - 12:51:25 AM:

Guten abend

Ich finde Ihre Seite ausgezeichnet. Vielen Dank für diese Auflistung der verschiedenen Kompatibilitäten. Ihre Seite ist viel informativer als die Seite von Sony. Gratulation!
Ich möchte aber noch erwähnen, dass die Ringleuchte HVL-RL1 den "Multi Interface shoe" hat und nicht iISO wie in der Tabelle von http://www.mhohner.de/sony-minolta/flashes.php Der entsprechende Adaptor für den iIso shoe ist in der Packung enthalten.

Mit freundlichen Grüssen
Martin Siegwart

Michael Hohner answers:
Laut Anleitung hat der HVL-RL1 einen ISO-Schuh, was auch so oben steht.

#49: Comment posted by johan on October 24th, 2014 - 02:39:11 PM:
i have the new sony a77 mark 2 also the flashes 58 and 42 is it possible to shoot wirelss with the 58 or the 42 on the camera? or is it just possible to shoot wireless with the build in flash as commander?

Michael Hohner answers:
The 58 can be used as a controller. See the Flash Compendium for full details.

#50: Comment posted by Johan on October 24th, 2014 - 11:29:26 PM:
Thanx, But it sounds silly.... I don,t now how i can do/ fix it. Is there anywhere where i can read how and what the exact settings are?

#51: Comment posted by Johan on October 25th, 2014 - 12:12:33 AM:
Tadaaaa.... Reset the flashes and all works! Thanx

#52: Comment posted by CBKZ on December 9th, 2014 - 09:00:46 PM:
Hi, I have a sony A33 and my old Jessop 300AF-MI flash gun. will this work with the A33 or will I damage the camera, thanks.

Michael Hohner answers:
The camera will not be damaged, but the flash will work at most in manual mode (if it has one). See the Flash Compendium for details.

#53: Comment posted by Sandra on April 25th, 2015 - 12:35:38 AM:
Hi Michael, Great site! I just bought a Minolta 7s and I am looking for the right flash for it. It doesn't necessarily have to be vintage like the camera, it just needs to function optimally so I can take great pictures! Thanks for your help.

Michael Hohner answers:
This is an old rangefinder camera, so not really the topic of this site (A-mount and E-mount). I don't know which flashes are suited for this camera.

#54: Comment posted by John Armstrong on February 5th, 2016 - 12:52:33 PM:
Hoping you can help. I have owned a Minolta 7D DSLR since first production, I still use it even though it is dated but it does the job for me. Im looking to purchase a RING FLASH to suit, can you advise. Sincerely John Armstrong

Michael Hohner answers:
Of the Minolta flashes the only practical solution is the Macro Ring Flash 1200, which is quite rare. The older ring flash is not suitable for digitsl cameras. There are probably also some third-party flashes, but I don't know these.

#55: Comment posted by Ron Carrington on February 15th, 2017 - 09:08:59 PM:
Hello,I have a Konica/Minolta Maxxum 7D and am looking for a flash that is compatible. I know that the 5600AF(D) is the preferred flash but would a 5600AF flash work as well and if so other than the wireless feature on the "D" model what other features would be lost for normal day to day amateur photography.

Michael Hohner answers:
There is no 5600AF flash. In general, you need a D flash for digital cameras, also see here.

#56: Comment posted by Jenna on March 10th, 2017 - 02:51:49 AM:
I have a sony a77 can't find a flash that fits the Minolta mount. what do you recommend? 2nd ? do all TTL flashes stop working in TTL once the flash head is swiveled to bound flash. This is true in the Bold brand flashes.

Michael Hohner answers:

Flashes with the iISO connector work on your camera (see here). Also, flashes with Multi Interface connector (see here) can be used with the ADP-AMA adapter.

TTL works with the head swiveled with these flashes.

Also, please read the Flash Compendium for details.

#57: Comment posted by Bob Smith on July 28th, 2017 - 03:11:26 PM:
Hi, I have a Minolta Maxxum1800 (since new). I'd like to try it out on my Sony A7 ll. Are there any voltage concerns or is it compatible? Thanks, Bob

Michael Hohner answers:
The two are not really compatible. Please read the F. A. Q. list.

#58: Comment posted by Fernando Melara Marquez on June 12th, 2018 - 11:49:17 PM:
He comprado una Sony A99 II Y TENGO UN FLASH METZ 48 Y me gustaria saber que adapador tengo que poner para que funcione. GRACIAS AMIGOS.

Michael Hohner answers:
Check the Metz homepage.

#59: Comment posted by Matt on February 5th, 2021 - 09:44:06 PM:
I have an ILCE-6000, and a Minolta Dynax 7 film camera. I have an old 5400HS flash, which I can use on camera for both. I would like to use it in wireless mode, but 6000 doesn't seem to work with it (or I don't know how). I am looking at buying another wireless flash without braking the bank. I figured I may be able to use 3600HS or 5600HS with both in wireless mode. Is this correct?

Michael Hohner answers:
The ILCE-6000 can not use its built-in flash as a wireless controller. So you need a dedicated flash on the camera as a controller and a compatible dedicated flash as the remote flash. There's an interactive table of compatible controllers and flashes in the Flash Compendium.

#60: Comment posted by Walton D Howard on September 20th, 2021 - 04:46:27 AM:
Will my 5400xi work with my Sony SLT a77? In both auto and manual? It worked perfectly with my 7xi film SLR. I used it right on the camera via cameras hot shoe.

Michael Hohner answers:
The flash will not work in auto mode, see the F. A. Q. for details.

#61: Comment posted by Mark Rodway on May 26th, 2022 - 06:55:04 PM:

The Minolta 3400 HS-D and 5600 HS-D are fully compatible with Sony A 100 etc DSLRs including The Minolta Konica 5and 9D

For those people who cannot get wireless it needs to be attached to the camera once switched on you can set the wireless funtion then leave both camera and flash switched on you will then see the infered light flashing that confirms the flash is connected to camera wirelessly and have received the information it needs do not forget to raise the pop up flash as a to trigger the flash sensor you will be able to use zoom as well
What a lot of people forget is to program the flash on the camera of which it will keep these settings to work with full wireless control.

#62: Comment posted by Hyacin on January 20th, 2023 - 11:14:54 PM:

Trying to use a Godox tt685ii, Xpro and Xproii (-s where applicable, obviously) on a Maxxum 7 with an ADP-AMA and having NO luck. The camera can occasionally see that there is a flash on there (and the flash icon lights up), but the flash never fires. The new Xproii even has a single pin mode which I was hoping would work, but even that doesn't! :-(

If anyone has any tips or advice that would be greatly appreciated!!

At this point I think I'm just going to order a PC to 2.5mm cable to trigger it and essentially use the hot shoe as a cold shoe (despite things actually being electrically connected), no ideal though.

#63: Comment posted by Paul Chambre on February 25th, 2023 - 06:42:57 PM:

Hi Michael,

You seem to know an awful lot about Sony flash protocols; I was hoping you might have some ideas about behavior I'm seeing from a Nissin i40 for Sony MI.

Basically, the i40 works fine for all features on my A7R4a as long as I am using Sony E mount lenses. If I use a 3rd party E mount lens (like a Samyang), or an adapted lens (even a Sony A mount lens on the LA-EA5), then I get problems with TTL (A or TTL, with or without HSS). Basically, wide open the "other" lenses are fine. Stopped down, they work up to F4, but overexpose. Past F4 the flash still fires, but is out of synch, so I get a very underexposed shot. I see the same behavior on an original A7R. My Sony or adapted Minolta flashes work fine with the same lenses. Manual mode from the i40 synchs fine at any aperture with these lenses.

I also tried EFCS off... that made no difference either. Dumb adapted lenses work fine and synch correctly.

I have so far tested this with three Sony E mount lenses, three third party AF E mount lenses, Four different adapters (LA-EA5, LA-EA4, Metabones T-IV, and Sigma MC-11). I've tried with Sony A mount lenses, Minolta A mount lenses, various EF lenses (including Sigmas that are "supported" on the MC-11). The only exception I found was the Sigma 30mm F2.8 DC lens - basically the first 3rd party AF lens for E mount. That one did synch at F8 with the i40.

Any ideas would be appreciated.

Michael Hohner answers:

This sounds like the flash does not sync correctly with the state of the aperture, either during pre-flash metering or during the actual exposure, i.e. the aperture blades are not (yet) in the correct position for metering or exposure. With Sony E-mount lenses or manual aperture lenses the aperture is always at the selected value, while with A-mount lenses the aperture is fully open for metering and closes down only for the actual exposure.

Since everything else works you can exclude problems with the camera or lenses. This is something that only Nissin could fix. Sorry for not having a better answer.

#64: Comment posted by Paul Chambre on February 26th, 2023 - 08:52:00 PM:

True that the A mount lenses don't stop down until the shutter is released, but the Samyang FE lenses, the Sigma lenses on the MC-11, and the Canon lenses on the Metabones adapter in Advanced mode all focus and compose at taking aperture. The underexposure is much greater than could be explained by incorrect metering... the flash looks and sounds like full power, so it really looks like it is firing while the shutter is (still, or already) closed.

Nissin's position seems to be that they do not test with or support third party lenses or adapted lenses. I am trying to find out whether others have seen similar behavior with the i40, or with other 3rd party flashes.