Hensel Integra Pro Plus Super Size Three Monolight Kit (90-230VAC)

Comments about Hensel Integra Pro Plus Super Size Three Monolight Kit (90-230VAC):

I purchased three lights last year and was very happy with these German lights built like tanks. The wireless strobe works wonderfully and the light is consistent and recycles quickly. Yes, as other reviewers stated, the light stands are flimsy (but useable for smaller umbrellas and light boxes). And the light boxes are flimsy. But it is the lights that you are paying for...

Hensel USA is not very good marketing their product which probably shows why demand in the US is so much lower than in Europe. Ashamed because Hensel has outstanding lights.

Comments about Hensel Integra Pro Plus Super Size Three Monolight Kit (90-230VAC):

This is my first strobe kit and I couldn't be happier! The lights are easy to operate, easy to setup and the fact that they come in a rolling case makes it even better. The included instructions could be more helpful but once you get past that it's smooth sailing!!

Comments about Hensel Integra Pro Plus Super Size Three Monolight Kit (90-230VAC):

I bought this set for my studio and also to be able to pack it up and go to a location.

The set is what I would expect from a German company: Excellent craftsmanship. The Monolights, the stands, reflectors, softbox, case, all highest quality and well built.

Enough light to shoot larger scenes with f numbers 8 and above.

Different story with f=1.4. Too much light... Before, I used 2 Canon Speedlight 580 EX in softboxes. No problem to get the softbox very close to the Object. With the Hensel kit, the lights need to be at least a few meters away, which makes it more difficult to keep the background dark. It would be great if the lowest light level could go lower.

The Radio Slave Transmitter is disappointing. The functions of the remote itself are ok, but it is cheap make and I had several times problems to get the Monolights triggered after changing the light level with it, that's why I didn't give 5 stars.

Comments about Hensel Integra Pro Plus Super Size Three Monolight Kit (90-230VAC):

I have owned this set for ~3 months now and have used in both indoor and outdoor applications. Initial head quality is apparent, but much too heavy for the supplied stands. The kit stands are short (6') max, and the base footprint is too small to support these outdoors or on uneven terrain. Be prepared to purchase other stands.

Setup and operation is pretty straight forward. I read the manual cover to cover but didn't really need to. Cord to light, cord to outlet, flip the switch...done.

I have has issues with all 3 of head's power receptacles where the power cord plugs in. The fit is not as secure as I'd like and one of the three heads has to be wiggled to get a good power connection.

Umbrellas and free softbox are small but sufficient for my application. I did purchase larger umbrellas.

The large wheeled case is sturdy and rugged. I can pack all of the heads, power cord, extension cords easily, and even assessories and reflectors in the zippered lid and still manage to close comfortably.

This kit comes with built in remotes and hotshoe trigger. The selectable trigger can trigger any one, or all 3 heads which is helpful in setup. I do recommend a light meter to make setup even more speedy.

Overall, it's a good kit and I would recommend.

Comments about Hensel Integra Pro Plus Super Size Three Monolight Kit (90-230VAC):

High Quality, Rugged, complete set...all set to go to work and they work flawlessly. Nice Cleab light. Easy to use and operate too!

Comments about Hensel Integra Pro Plus Super Size Three Monolight Kit (90-230VAC):

I've added this three light system to my existing 2 light Plus system to create an awesome five light set up. This has given me much added flexibility to be more creative in my work. The consistency of the quality of light is second to none. Worth every penny and then some.

Comments about Hensel Integra Pro Plus Super Size Three Monolight Kit (90-230VAC):

I am using Hensel for portraits & interiors. The kit is an excellent value considering the power (1500 watt-seconds), highly consistent output and an array of thoughtful features. Hensel specs are very accurate--no smoke and mirrors with this firm.

It is very helpful to have feathered power control (radio) at the camera for individual lights, or groups. Optical triggers are also good to have. In general, the design, layout, features, materials, fit/finish are outstanding. Hensel's 500 watt-second monolight is a very high-quality build.

The whole idea was to choose a firm I wouldn't mind doing business with in the future. As this kit performs better than expected, and is of higher quality than expected, Hensel certainly meets that criteria. The kit is also pretty, a virtue not lost on artists--or their clients, and there are many ways to expand if I want to. For example, Hensel makes an impressive battery powered generator that will run the monolights without AC power--at an affordable price. They also make a 6000 watt-second pack for artists who need that kind of power (I don't). Good range of equipment and accessories.

Hensel USA is a friendly crew if you need advice or assistance. Some manufacturer's starter kits seem a little stingy, but this one is just the opposite--very generous and I am satisfied with all the components (including Hensel light stands). The travel case is especially nice--very sturdy construction, and substantially better than the case pictured at the B&H web site from previous years. (See Hensel's web site)

I guess people's opinions are bound to be subjective, including mine. Just the same, I am a physicist, and also have years of experience inside monolights, power packs and strobes--doing repairs. Hensel equipment is right up there with quality elites, but prices are more down to earth. I think Hensel is a good mix, quality and affordability, and am inclined to endorse Hensel.

Comments about Hensel Integra Pro Plus Super Size Three Monolight Kit (90-230VAC):

I've decided to write because making the right choice was along and painful process, so someone may benefit fromreading this... Hensel 3 monolight kit in my subjectiveopinion appears to be the best combination of features perdollar spent, cheaper vs. ordering items separately. Therunner ups were Visatec, ProFoto and Elinchrom, but theydidn't make it. PLUSES: unit overall quality (yes, they are built liketanks) and radio remote control which enables separate poweradjustments; ease of use (you can trash the manual - it'sthat simple); speedring system is well thought of;sufficient power (with max power of 1500W you get a properlyexposed shot at f/22, 1/200 with ISO 100); portability (theyhave a better quality bag now where you could fit severalsmall elephants); multi-voltage solution (90-230) with 300Wmodeling light, which is especially nice if you have 2diffusers per softbox; exceptionally constant temperatureoutput; cheap replacement bulbs.MINUSES: light stands... mediocre at best - get eitherManfrotto or cheaper Dynatran (better with the boom);umbrellas are small and in fact are economy as per theirtitle; incompatible frequency of radio transmission withPocket Wizard (you don't need it of course, but still) withthe inferior to Pocket Wizard range (though perfectlyadequate); relative difficulties in getting accessories -usually out of stock. Hensel softboxes are sort of overpriced.SOLUTIONS: get Chimera or Interfit softboxes (with thecorresponding speedrings or course); Hensel 9 reflectorwith barndoors, more narrow grid, beauty dish and a snoutmight also be helpful, but this is endless as we all know...BOTTOM LINE: you are getting what you are paying for. Ididn't expect the light stands like that, so 4 stars only.In any event: highlyrecommended.

Expertise: Semi-pro

Problems Encountered: None so far. One of the reflectors came bent.

Items I Recommend: interfit speed rings, interfit softboxes, beauty dish, barndoor set