Metz 58AF-1 digital flashgun review

Main Specifications:
Guide Number: 58* (ISO 100, m) *at 105mm
Flash coverage: 16-70mm (24-105mm)
Recycling time: 2.5-5 seconds
Bounce facility: Yes (0-90º)
Swivel facility: Yes (0-330º)
TTL: Yes
AF assist beam: Yes
Strobe flash: Yes
Wireless flash: Yes
Second-curtain sync: Yes
Power source: Four AA batteries
External power: Yes
Dimensions (WHD): 71x148x99mm
Weight: 355g
Fitting: Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Pentax, Sony

BUILD QUALITY: Just like the 48 AF-1, 
the 58 AF-1 is a solid and robust unit capable of withstanding the serious abuse of everyday use. With a spring-loaded slider hiding the external power slot and a rubber cover over the USB port, you should have no worries about using this unit in the worst weather.

FEATURES: Metz’s flagship flashgun has it all. Although the menu system takes a bit of getting used to thanks to the lack of a command wheel, the 58 AF-1 has all the major features you’d expect from a high-end unit. You can update the firmware via USB connection and there is a very useful secondary reflector above the AF assist beam to help with fill-in flash.

PERFORMANCE: With a high guide number, the 58 AF-1 produces a strong, bright and vivid exposure result that competes with the marque brands. The flash is spread evenly across the frame, with just a tad of light falling away in the corner, which was to be expected with the lens set to 18mm.

VERDICT: A high-end product capable of producing excellent results and tough enough for everyday use.
Build quality: 5/5
Features: 5/5
Performance: 4/5
Value for money: 5/5
Overall: 5/5
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