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Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter
- Price: $389.00
- Free Shipping (USA)
- In Stock
- B&H # SEL478D
- Mfr# 401-478
Product Highlights
- Color Touch Screen Interface
- Still, Cine, Incident, Reflected, Flash Exposure Meter
- Custom Exposure Profiles and Calibration
- Flash Exposure Analyzing Function
- Adjustable Menu Navigation
- Retractable and Removable Lumisphere
- AAA Battery Power Source
Remember the Essentials
Batteries are required but not included with this item. Please be sure to purchase batteries for this item.
The Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter is an incident and flash meter featuring a color touch screen interface. The touch screen-based navigation lends itself to a highly intuitive and efficient workflow, allowing you to quickly modify exposure settings and navigate menus. This meter is also highly versatile and capable of measuring flash, incident and reflected light for still, HD video, or cine applications.
The L-478D can be customized or adapted to your own specifications; depending on the metering modes you use most often, you can hide certain modes to create a more streamlined menu system. Exposure constants include shutter speed, f/-number, ISO, shutter angle, and frame rate; and the exposure variable can be decided upon depending on the situation you are working in. Illuminance and luminance values can also be taken, which are measured in footcandles/lux or candela per square meter/foot-lamberts, respectively. For more fine-tuned results, you can create and input personal profiles, allowing the meter to display exposure settings in accordance with your specific camera's dynamic range and clipping points.
Other settings available include the ability to memorize up to 10 different exposure readings in order to refer back for comparative overall measurements. The AVE/EV setting allows you to make one master exposure reading and have subsequent readings displayed as differential values based on the master exposure value. When working with flash metering, the flash exposure values can be expressed as a percentage of the flash-to-ambient light, giving you the ability to more easily alter and previsualize lighting ratios. Filter compensation and exposure compensation settings can also be applied in order to remove the necessity to apply different filter factors after a meter reading has been taken.
- Color Touch Screen Interface and Design
-
- The touch screen provides a more intuitive style of navigation and allows you to simply touch the settings you wish to adjust. Menu navigation is intuitive and the handling of various configurations becomes an expedited process.
- Simple visual layout provides a clear view of your exposure setting and permits customization in regard to the information you wish to be displayed (including a choice of analog exposure scales (EV or f/-stops); 1, 1/2, or 1/3 step increments; the inclusion of 1/10 stops; and the option to hide metering modes you do not use frequently).
- One physical menu button provides access to a more in-depth menu system that is then navigated through the touch screen. This menu allows for you to program exposure profiles and modify custom settings for your meter.
- Measure and memory buttons are located on the side of the device for recording and initiating exposure readings. A PC sync terminal is located on the bottom of the device for direct, corded flash metering. A USB terminal is located on the side and provides a connection point to your computer for firmware updates and for loading exposure profiles to your meter. The attached light receptor features a retractable Lumisphere that can be rotated 90° clockwise or 180° counter-clockwise. It is also removable in order to facilitate the use of optional attachments.
- Versatility Between Metering Methods
-
- Ability to measure incident or flash light and display exposure readings as f/-numbers, shutter speeds, or ISO settings for use with still imaging, HD video, and cine uses. Exposure constants also include frame rate and shutter angle for a variety of motion uses.
- Also capable of measuring illuminance as footcandles/lux or luminance as candela per square meter/foot-lamberts.
- Flash metering can display the percentage of flash-to-ambient light within the scene for precise lighting ratios.
- Comparative metering can be accomplished by using the AVE/EV function; allowing you to set a standard reading and have subsequent readings shown as the difference in exposure value.
- Cinematic modes offer creative options for setting frame rates between 1 to 1000fps or shutter angles from 1° to 358°.
- Filter compensation mode enables you to directly apply the effects of filters to your exposure reading. Up to four different filter factors can be applied at once, and up to 30 different filter factors can be stored for use (24 common filters are pre-programmed, including CTB, CTO, ND, +/- green, and 85 amber filters).
- Custom Profiling
-
- You can enable and disable different metering modes from showing up in menus, allowing you to configure the meter to your own personal workflow.
- Calibration and custom profiling can be accomplished in accordance to your own personal camera by executing a series of exposure tests, processing the tests through Sekonic's Data Transfer Software (included), and outputting the results as a personal profile for use with your meter. These personal profiles confine your meter to work within your specific camera's dynamic range (up to 10 distinct profiles can be saved). Profiles can also be modified or created directly through the meter.
- Display Range
-
- ISO- ISO 3 to 409600 (in 1/3 steps)
- Shutter Speed- Ambient: 30 min. to 1/6400 sec. (in 1, 1/2, and 1/3 steps), 1/200 and 1/400 sec. also available
Flash: 30 min. to 1/1000 sec. (in 1, 1/2, and 1/3 steps), 1/75, 1/80, 1/90, 1/100, 1/200, and 1/400 sec. also available- Aperture- f/0.5 to f/162.2 (in 1/3 steps)
- Frame Rate (f/s)- 1 to 1000 (20 types other possible settings)
- Shutter Angle- 1° to 358° (20 types other possible settings)
- EV- EV -27.9 to 55.8 (only effective with ambient light)
- Analog- T scale: 4 to 1/2000 sec. (in 1/3 steps)
F scale: f/1.0 to f/90 (in 1/3 steps)
EV scale: EV -3 to 3 (incident light, in 1/3 steps) / EV -7 to 7 (reflected light, in 1/3 steps)
Illuminance lux: 0 to 50,000 lux
Illuminance fc: 0 to 5,000 fc
Luminance cd/m2: 0 to 2,500 cd/m2
Luminance fl: 0 to1,000 fl- Contrast- EV -9.9 to 9.9 (in 1/10 steps)
- Filter Compensation- EV -5 to 5 (in 1/10 steps)
- Compensation- EV -9.9 to 9.9 (in 1/10 steps)
| Metering Method | Incident light and reflected light (with optional attachment) |
| Receptor Head | Lumisphere convertible to flat diffuser (with retracted Lumisphere) |
| Receptor Element | Silicon photo diodes |
| Measuring Modes |
Ambient: Aperture priority measuring, Shutter speed priority measuring, TF priority measuring, Cine measuring, HD Cine camera measuring, Illuminance measuring (lux, foot candle), Luminance measuring (foot-lambert, cdm2) Flash: Cord Mode (with/without multiple cumulative), Cordless Mode (with/without multiple cumulative) |
| Measuring Range |
Ambient- Incident: EV -2 to 22.9 (approx. f/2 at 15 sec. to f/22.9 at 1/8000 sec.) / Reflected: EV 3 to 19.9 Flash light- Incident: f/1.0 to f/128.9 / Reflected: f/2.8 to f/128.9 Illuminance- 0.63 to 2,000,000 lux / 0.10 to 180,000 fc (EV -2 to 19.6) Luminance (Reflected Light)- 1 to 980,000 cdm2 (EV 3 to 22.9) / 0.29 to 290,000 fl (EV 1.5 to 22.9) |
| Repeat Accuracy | +/- 0.1 EV or less |
| Calibration Constant |
Incident: Lumisphere C = 340, Flat C = 250 Reflected: K = 12.5 |
| Power Source | 2x AAA dry cell batteries (alkaline, manganese, lithium, nickel hydride, or nickel-based) |
| Operating Temperature | 14-122°F / -10-50°C (no condensation) |
| Storage Temperature | -4-140°F / -20-60°C (no condensation) |
| Dimensions | 2.2 x 5.5 x 1" / 57 x 140 x 26 mm |
| Weight | 4.6 oz / 130 g (without batteries) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 13 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
91%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- Was this a gift?:
- No (3)
Most Liked Positive Review
Great new innovation!
Easy navigation of modes and settings, sleek new design, up gradable, build camera and lens profiles, the list goes on and on. This meter has greatly improved my work flow, and my ...Read complete review
Easy navigation of modes and settings, sleek new design, up gradable, build camera and lens profiles, the list goes on and on. This meter has greatly improved my work flow, and my client bookings. For the price, and the features that this meter is packed with, Grab one, you wont be disappointed.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Poor Construction
After just a month of mild usage the 478D lcd got damaged and Sekonic India says its not covered under warranty.The LCD glass is intact with not even a single scratch but the display inside ...Read complete review
After just a month of mild usage the 478D lcd got damaged and Sekonic India says its not covered under warranty.The LCD glass is intact with not even a single scratch but the display inside is damaged .478D is a showpiece and definitely not for the professional.A waste investment.Please think twice before buying it
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 13 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-13
Pros
- Digital
- Easy to operate
- Slim
Cons
- Must Buy Attachmment
Best Uses
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
I do not like the fact that it does not come with everything. If you need to use the reflector setting with the meter for school for example then you have to spend another [$] to get the attachment. For the price it already is I think it should include it already. Other than that I love the meter.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- Reflector Attachment
Pros
- Easy to use
Cons
- No Usb Cable In Box
Best Uses
- Good Screen Brightness
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
Very easy to use.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Multiple Settings
Cons
- Calibrating
Best Uses
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
I am student working on my degree in cinematography and I am new to light metering. Although I have a Sony FS100, I wanted to help in working with lighting and exposure of my shots. I found this product very useful in its implementation. The description of this device is dead on. The touch screen is sensitive but responsive. The amount of choices per setting is amazing as I can switch from photography to cinema in an instant and the ISO setting work great for my camera. Being able to calibrate my camera to the meter is one of point to my purchasing this. The only difficulty I had is in calibrating the meter for my camera as I have stated this is my first light meter so the instructions to do this was confusing to me even though the videos show otherwise. Seasoned professionals I am sure will have a much better experience in this regards.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
This light meter has been great it is easy to use, compact.
Pros
- Accurate and Easy to Use
Cons
- slow booting up
Best Uses
- Everywhere
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
I have had no problems using it in all environments- I like the synch feature makes it very accurate with my camera settings 5d Miii - It is a huge time saver and has helped me train and calibrate my own eye for light. I am much better at eyeballing the settings now because of it. The only thing I would like is for it to be up and running when you hit power on. It takes about 15 sec to boot up. Not much time but a little annoying. Great tool.
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
After just a month of mild usage the 478D lcd got damaged and Sekonic India says its not covered under warranty.The LCD glass is intact with not even a single scratch but the display inside is damaged .478D is a showpiece and definitely not for the professional.A waste investment.Please think twice before buying it
Pros
- Easy Interface
- Good pricing
- Portable
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
I initially bought this one and exchanged for 478DR since it has a Pocket Wizard module built in. Other than that it's easy to use and great product.
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
I have never used a light meter before, but this one makes it really easy to learn! :)
Pros
- Accurate
- Easy to use
- Functions
Cons
- Touch screen
Best Uses
- Film
- Photography
- Studio
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
Really good light meter! Easy to use. Many different functions, which makes it a great product for both film and photo. Con: The touch screen is not very responsive. Could be improved.
Pros
- Accepts Camera Profiles
- Customize Your Layout
- Easy Navigation Of Modes
- Hd Cine Modes
- Sleek New Design
- Very light
Cons
- Hard to see screen in sun
Best Uses
- Portraiture
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
Easy navigation of modes and settings, sleek new design, up gradable, build camera and lens profiles, the list goes on and on. This meter has greatly improved my work flow, and my client bookings. For the price, and the features that this meter is packed with, Grab one, you wont be disappointed.
Pros
- Everything
Cons
- none
Best Uses
- Studio and location work
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
I can't think of one thing this meter can't do. If it could cook, I'd marry it.
Seriously though, this meter is accurate, provides functions for any situation like avaraging, contrast, filter compensation, custom settings, and takes care of cinema tasks too.On top of everything else it's firware is upgradable and the provided data transfer software is a nice touch.
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
Extremely accurate and easy to use.
Displaying reviews 1-13
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 13 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
91%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- Was this a gift?:
- No (3)
Most Liked Positive Review
Great new innovation!
Easy navigation of modes and settings, sleek new design, up gradable, build camera and lens profiles, the list goes on and on. This meter has greatly improved my work flow, and my ...Read complete review
Easy navigation of modes and settings, sleek new design, up gradable, build camera and lens profiles, the list goes on and on. This meter has greatly improved my work flow, and my client bookings. For the price, and the features that this meter is packed with, Grab one, you wont be disappointed.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Poor Construction
After just a month of mild usage the 478D lcd got damaged and Sekonic India says its not covered under warranty.The LCD glass is intact with not even a single scratch but the display inside ...Read complete review
After just a month of mild usage the 478D lcd got damaged and Sekonic India says its not covered under warranty.The LCD glass is intact with not even a single scratch but the display inside is damaged .478D is a showpiece and definitely not for the professional.A waste investment.Please think twice before buying it
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 13 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-13
Pros
- Digital
- Easy to operate
- Slim
Cons
- Must Buy Attachmment
Best Uses
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
I do not like the fact that it does not come with everything. If you need to use the reflector setting with the meter for school for example then you have to spend another [$] to get the attachment. For the price it already is I think it should include it already. Other than that I love the meter.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- Reflector Attachment
Pros
- Easy to use
Cons
- No Usb Cable In Box
Best Uses
- Good Screen Brightness
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
Very easy to use.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Multiple Settings
Cons
- Calibrating
Best Uses
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
I am student working on my degree in cinematography and I am new to light metering. Although I have a Sony FS100, I wanted to help in working with lighting and exposure of my shots. I found this product very useful in its implementation. The description of this device is dead on. The touch screen is sensitive but responsive. The amount of choices per setting is amazing as I can switch from photography to cinema in an instant and the ISO setting work great for my camera. Being able to calibrate my camera to the meter is one of point to my purchasing this. The only difficulty I had is in calibrating the meter for my camera as I have stated this is my first light meter so the instructions to do this was confusing to me even though the videos show otherwise. Seasoned professionals I am sure will have a much better experience in this regards.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
This light meter has been great it is easy to use, compact.
Pros
- Accurate and Easy to Use
Cons
- slow booting up
Best Uses
- Everywhere
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
I have had no problems using it in all environments- I like the synch feature makes it very accurate with my camera settings 5d Miii - It is a huge time saver and has helped me train and calibrate my own eye for light. I am much better at eyeballing the settings now because of it. The only thing I would like is for it to be up and running when you hit power on. It takes about 15 sec to boot up. Not much time but a little annoying. Great tool.
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
After just a month of mild usage the 478D lcd got damaged and Sekonic India says its not covered under warranty.The LCD glass is intact with not even a single scratch but the display inside is damaged .478D is a showpiece and definitely not for the professional.A waste investment.Please think twice before buying it
Pros
- Easy Interface
- Good pricing
- Portable
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
I initially bought this one and exchanged for 478DR since it has a Pocket Wizard module built in. Other than that it's easy to use and great product.
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
I have never used a light meter before, but this one makes it really easy to learn! :)
Pros
- Accurate
- Easy to use
- Functions
Cons
- Touch screen
Best Uses
- Film
- Photography
- Studio
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
Really good light meter! Easy to use. Many different functions, which makes it a great product for both film and photo. Con: The touch screen is not very responsive. Could be improved.
Pros
- Accepts Camera Profiles
- Customize Your Layout
- Easy Navigation Of Modes
- Hd Cine Modes
- Sleek New Design
- Very light
Cons
- Hard to see screen in sun
Best Uses
- Portraiture
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
Easy navigation of modes and settings, sleek new design, up gradable, build camera and lens profiles, the list goes on and on. This meter has greatly improved my work flow, and my client bookings. For the price, and the features that this meter is packed with, Grab one, you wont be disappointed.
Pros
- Everything
Cons
- none
Best Uses
- Studio and location work
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
I can't think of one thing this meter can't do. If it could cook, I'd marry it.
Seriously though, this meter is accurate, provides functions for any situation like avaraging, contrast, filter compensation, custom settings, and takes care of cinema tasks too.On top of everything else it's firware is upgradable and the provided data transfer software is a nice touch.
Comments about Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478D Light Meter:
Extremely accurate and easy to use.
Displaying reviews 1-13
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