Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter
The Gossen Digisix, a digital exposure meter for ambient light made in Germany by Gossen, is a vicious competitor for the 'tiny available light' segment of meters. Measuring is easy: The EV value is measured and indicated in the digital display and then transfered to the setting ring. All the useful shutter speed and f/stop combinations can be read at a glance.
The meter also sports some useful accessory features: a timer function for measuring from 0 seconds to 30 minutes, a watch (adjustabled for both 12 or 24 hour display) and an ambient temperature thermometer (which can be set for either Celsius or Fahrenheit). The lowlight sensitivity of the Digisix allows meaningful measurements in twilight and beyond, a new watershed for such a tiny unit.
Optional accessories, the Camera Adapter Clip(catalog #V069A) as well as the Bogen 3298, allow attachment of the DigiSix directly to the top of your camera's flash shoe.
- Reflected and incident light modes
- Microprocessor controlled operation
- Digital LCD display of read out in 1/3 stops
- Storage of values measured
- At-a-glance indication of all suitable combinations of shutter speeds and aperture
- "Range over" or "Range under" signal
- Watch, Timer, Alarm functions and Temperature measurement
- Robust Temperature Operation Range
- Works in temperatures of 14-140°F (-10 to +60°C)
| Measuring System | Incident or reflected |
| Measuring Modes | Ambient incident and reflected (app. 25° in reflected mode) |
| Receptor Head | Non-rotating, non-interchangeable - Light sensor is SBC photo diode |
| Aperture/Shutter Priority | Not applicable |
| Display Readout | Digital LCD display and setting ring |
| ISO Range | 6 to 3200 in 1/3rd EV increments |
| f/Stop Display Range | f/1 to 32 |
| Shutter Speed - Ambient | 1/2000th second to 4 minutes |
| Shutter Speed - Flash | Not applicable |
| EV Range (ISO-100) | EV 0 to +18 |
| Cine Speeds | Not applicable |
| Exposure Memory | Not applicable |
| Shadow/Highlight Calculation | Not applicable |
| Brightness Difference | Not applicable |
| Flash to Ambient Ratio | Not applicable |
| Multiple Flash | Not applicable |
| Exposure Calibration | Not applicable |
| Power Source | One CR2032 3-Volt lithium battery (included) |
| Dimensions | 3.0 x 2.0 x 0.9" (75 x 50 x 23 mm) (WDH) |
| Weight | 0.09 lb (40 g) [including battery] |
| Specialties | Timer, Watch and Temperature functions |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 38 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
97%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Lightweight (35)
- Compact (34)
- Accurate (32)
- Consistent (26)
- Strong construction (16)
Cons
Best Uses
- Photography (31)
- Portraits (20)
- Film (11)
- Photojournalism (5)
- Artwork (4)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Semi-pro photographer (14), Photo enthusiast (13), Enthusiast (3)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (21)
Most Liked Positive Review
Just Bought my Second Digisx
I bought a 2nd one because I gave away my first one, then as I learned more about exposure, I started missing it very much.Equally useful for both film and digital photography.This latest one ...Read complete review
I bought a 2nd one because I gave away my first one, then as I learned more about exposure, I started missing it very much.Equally useful for both film and digital photography.This latest one seems more consistent than the first one I owned earlier this decade. All my Gossens last much longer than Sekonics.This light meter is a lot more robust than it first seems. Despite no weatherproofing and an apparently cheap plastic case, the Digisix lasts a long time. I think you have to hurl it straight onto concrete to damage it. Merely getting dropping it or briefly getting it wet in the rain doesn't seem to bother its performance. Anders from Bergen, Norway on 11/9/2009 has got it exactly right. This meter is really quick to use once you learn to convert the displayed EV value to an aperture plus shutter speed combination in your head. It is the perfect design.As long as you use the displayed EV value, there is no "limitation of 1/2000". If I want to use 1/4000th shutter speed, I just have to remember that has an EV value of 12, so the incident light measurement must be 14 EV if I want to set my aperture to f/2 (14 = 12 + 2). See Table 1 in [@] for more info.CON: Gossen doesn't publish the Calibration Constants in the User's Manual for incident and reflective metering like Sekonic does. See [@] for more info.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Inexpensive with limitations
I haven't used a light meter for years and bought this as a way back. I like the size and it is relatively easy to use. Mine needed a +2/3 F adjustment to...Read complete review
I haven't used a light meter for years and bought this as a way back. I like the size and it is relatively easy to use. Mine needed a +2/3 F adjustment to get a good exposure. The limitation of 1/2000 is limiting and I am sometimes making adjustments for it. Also to change ISO you have to cycle through the whole set; no going from 200 to 100 quickly. The extra 5 functions built in tis meter are (To me) largely useless. It is a little flimsy, not sure you would want to drop it.
Once calibrated it does produce accurate incident light readings. For reflected I find I am better off using in-camera evaluative metering. If you want a basic albeit limited incident light meter I think this is a good buy. Otherwise I would spend more for a more capable meter.
Reviewed by 38 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Consistent
Cons
Best Uses
- Photography
- Portraits
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
I use this meter for my twin lens and my slr cameras. I already see better results compared to my built in meter. Very easy to use, I love it. Cant find one thing wrong with it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
I found this meter to be a disappointment when compared to other Gossen light meters I've owned over the years, including my current Digipro F. The exposure wheel felt flimsy and the meter required 2 hands to use, one to hold the meter and one to adjust the dial. I returned this to B&H for a refund.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Consistent
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Film
- Photography
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
It is very small, and it works. I have used it in both reflected and incident light modes with great results.
The readings are accurate, and it is nice to have the dial give all the shutter/aperture combinations that go with the reading/ISO setting.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Consistent
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Portraits
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
From the first time you use this meter you know that it is built to last, great German made and gives accurate readings, although I love it but I bought it by mistake thinking that it measures flash :( so I will need to buy another one and unfortunately sell this or keep it in the bag just in case.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Consistent
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
- none
Best Uses
- Film
- Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
I love the size and the accuracy.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Consistent
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Artwork
- Photography
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
A must have for studio work
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Artwork
- Film
- Photography
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
I bought the Gossen Digisix to use with a vintage camera, an Olympus, to provide reliable metering. And provide it did! The results in terms of the BW shots taken were excellent. Improved tonal range and nice ease of use in street photography. Inspired me to haul out my YashicaMat and load some roll film.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Lightweight
Cons
- Poor Construction
Best Uses
- Photography
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
I bought this light meter as a tool to help teach my nephew the basics of exposure as the first step to learning how to take a quality photograph. For this application the Gossen Digisix is perfect.
The meter comes complete with battery, case and carrying strap. It is quite easy to set up and use with only one quick read through the instructions.
However, you get what you pay for. It is made entirely of plastic and is quite flimsy. Even inserting the battery must be done very carefully to avoid damaging the meter.
In use, the steps of taking the reading in EVs, then moving the manual dial, then selecting either the desired speed or F-stop slows down the picture taking process so that a beginning photographer can think through exactly how to use exposure as a tool to produce the desired image.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Consistent
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Photography
- Portraits
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
Point, set dial and read apertures and shutter speeds.
Very light, fits in your vest pocket; uncomplicated.
Uses are limited to portraits, studio, have to adjust
stops up or down depending on subject being photographed.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Consistent
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Film
- Photography
- Portraits
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
I use this with my 35mm film and medium format camera's.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Consistent
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Superfluous features
Best Uses
- Artwork
- Photography
- Portraits
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
Working as a nature Photographer I find the need for a quality meter is of utmost importance. When the need for a replacement arose the Digisix stood alone in the simplicity of use and the lowball price didn't hurt. Don't be mislead by its size, it packs alot into that small package. Often working well into the twilight the timer function and ability to meter to EV-0 have proved their usefulness. Had a few featuresthat I found superfluous. Do I really need to know the ambient temperature? Not a deal buster just extra.
Great that it displays in EV as my Hassleblad has EV settings on the Lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Consistent
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Artwork
- Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
Small, lightweight, works perfectly; highly recommended!
Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Consistent
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Film
- Photography
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
Simple to use and very fast to set up and read. It has made my vintage cameras much easier to use and its small size makes it great to carry about when I use my modern equipment. A great gadget for a very good price (and it's still German made}
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Consistent
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Film
- Photography
- Portraits
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
Excellent light meter. I use it with m Nikon S3 and S2 to shoot slide and infrared film. Great results with all rolls shot so far. Seems to be spot on in accuracy.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Consistent
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Film
- Photography
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
Does exactly what it says. It is cheap, light and wonderfully accurate meter. Of course you want to try it out and see how its EV readings will vary your exposure according to your tastes and your camera. The EV readings seem spot on with my buddies more expensive meter. The instructions say it reads down to EV0 but using the EV comparison feature I've noticed you can read down to EV-9. Of course you have to do the math in your head because the dial doesn't go that far but I count the clicks (and a cheat sheet of shutter speeds in 1/3 stops) and have some success. Also, I find the dial reading faster than digital outputs. It's also small enough that I almost forget I have it in my pocket. Fantastic deal!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Consistent
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape animal photos
- Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
I've had a Digiflash for several years and like it. The Digisix appears to be essentially identical(without flash mode) but a little better: the detents on the exposure wheel are nicer. The two meters are 1/3 exposure step different. The Digiflash has been thru a lot of trauma and survived, thus, I'm assumming it's the one that is off a little. Will look into that when I get a chance. The Digisix is a great little meter for someone who hasn't gotten past circa 1955 from a camera technology point of view. It is very handy, accurate, well made, easy to use, a decent pocket watch/thermometer for the price and most importantly, tough.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accurate
- Easy To Use
- Fun
- Lightweight
- Small
Cons
Best Uses
- With old cameras
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
I use this for my old Rolleiflex and Rollei 35 cameras, neither of which have a meter that works. The Digisix is easy to use, fast, and accurate. I've compared the reading to my D700 in the same light and they are very similar. It is easy and light to carry.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Reliable
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape Photography
- Portraits
- Traveling
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
I use this with older unmetered cameras and to double check some with meters, mainly in incident meter mode. I like the compactness, and it seems spot on, which should be expected of Gossen, I guess. It's easier to put in your pocket or around your neck than some larger incident or spot meters.
The durability of the plastic construction remains to be seen, but will probably be OK. It's not a flimsy object.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Consistent
- Lightweight
- reliable
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Film
- Photography
- Polaroid
- Portraits
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
I occasionally shoot with a old Polaroid 180 Land Camera which has no meter but just a lens with aperture and shutter speed settings.
Instant film for the polaroid cameras, which is now made by Fujifilm (and sold by B&H) is from anywhere between $1.00-$1.35 per exposure. Photography is hard enough trying to get the right composition, cropping, etc. without having to waste time and money worrying about exposure. Every shot counts.
With the Gossen Digisix Lightmeter mounted on my camera's hotshoe, I get perfect exposure every time. No wasted shots means no wasted money. This Lightmeter has already paid for itself.
I can even put in exposure compensation for any filters that I use. Red 25 filter, add a stop and a third to the Digisix. Very simple.
Highly recommended. I also use it as an incident meter when shooting with my Canon DSLRs.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accurate
- Compact
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Gossen Digisix Ultra Compact Digital & Analog Incident and Reflected Lightmeter:
[...] Easy to carry and use. A little effort involved in translating reading to camera setting options.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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- Price: $1.49
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- Original: $17.95
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- Price: $17.41
What's in the Box
- Case
- Strap
- CR2032 Lithium battery
- 1-Year Warranty
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