The Ikelite Digital SubStrobe DS-160 is compatible with all Ikelite TTL digital camera systems. The strobe will also work with older TTL film cameras including the Nikonos system. A variety of sync cords, sensors, and TTL adapters are available to connect to almost any camera system currently on the market. The DS-160 features special electronic circuitry that allows use with digital cameras with preflash metering. The strobe is also completely compatible with all non-preflash systems.
The strobe offers 160 watt/seconds of power in a small package, and has a coverage angle of 100 degrees with a diffuser. The SubStrobe DS-160 recycles virtually instantaneously when fired at fractional power. This is true whether in TTL or manual mode. At full power, you still get an incredible 1.5 second recycle time. Use a compatible TTL system and enjoy perfect automatic exposure and an increased number of flashes per full charge. When used in manual mode, the DS-160 offers 10 power settings in half-stop increments for precise control over your exposure.
A bright built-in five-watt LED aiming light is perfect for use as a focusing light or dive light on night dives. The beam is even, concentrated, and automatically turns off and on when the strobe fires.
The #4060 DS-160 includes rechargeable NiMH battery pack and a flash diffuser. It does not include a mount, and the required #4066.1 Smart Charger is also not included. An optional #9571.4 mount with one-inch diameter ball allows you to build a custom arm or attach the strobe to TLC or Ultralight arm systems.
Complete strobe packages with strobe, arm, charger, and either sync cord or EV manual controller provide everything you need to add an external flash to your system.
| Configuration | Strobe head only |
| Guide No. | 76 Surface, 38 Underwater |
| Power Rating | 160 Watt/seconds |
| Coverage Angle | 90° (100° with diffuser) |
| Depth Rating | 300' (90 m) |
| Flash Modes | TTL, Manual |
| Exposure Control | 10 power settings in half-stop increments |
| Slave | No |
| Targeting Light | 5W LED |
| Audible Signal | Yes |
| Color Temperature | 4800°K |
| Recycle Time | 1.5 Seconds |
| Flashes (Full Power) | Approx. 225 |
| Power Source | NiMH battery module |
| Dimensions | 3.75 x 3.75 x 7" (95 x 95 x 178mm) |
| Weight (Land) | 2.75 lbs (1.25kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 11 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-11
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Ikelite 4060 SubStrobe DS-160:
Was using 2 DS 125 strobes, had to replace one with DS 160. They work very well together, TTl or manual. Will replace the 125 when it goes out, if it ever does, Have had 1000's of flashes still going strong. Fast recovery, 1.5 seconds. Only down fall is they are heavy, but I won't trade them for anything else.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Ikelite 4060 SubStrobe DS-160:
My second strobe. TTL with Ikelite is spot on, but heavy weight for travel is obvious drawback.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Ikelite 4060 SubStrobe DS-160:
This is an excellent flash unit with good coverage and light output. As with other Ikelite wide angle flash units the light is also warm and even, especially with the diffuser. Fast recycle times and big battery capacity mean that most of the time I only have to charge it at the end of the day, even when doing 5 dives a day.
The multiple power settings are very useful and it has an indicator to let you know how much charge is remaining in the battery. It also has a useful built in aiming light that is great for accurate framing and focusing.
I have been using Ikelite flashes for many years and really like this model. It does not have quite as much coverage or as big a reflector as the recently discontinued Ikelite DS 200, which I prefer and is why I gave it only 4 stars, but it is also a bit smaller and lighter and has a better way to access the battery. It may be a little bigger than some other brands, but the light quality and robust design make this my favorite of all currently available flashes.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Ikelite 4060 SubStrobe DS-160:
Great strobe, great power and amazing recycle rate.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Ikelite 4060 SubStrobe DS-160:
This strobe keeps with the great features of the DS-125 - sealed unit, easy battery access, long battery life and ease of use. It is still large and heavy compared to the competition but if you can handle the weight the convience is worth it. The iKon's give it a good run for it's money and if I was starting from scratch it would be a very hard choice. Note the modeling light doesn't turn off when the strobe fires so you end up with mixed lighting colors if you are using the modeling light.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Ikelite 4060 SubStrobe DS-160:
I bought this strobe for a project to use alongside my Ikelite 125 flash. The DS-160 is clearly a step up. It is brighter, both in terms of flash and the modeling light. I appreciate that I can use the same batteries and cords. As with other Ikelite strobes, the controls are simple and durable, and the level of service that Ikelite provides cannot be beat.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Ikelite 4060 SubStrobe DS-160:
Great light, I purchased this one to give me a twin DS160 system on my ikelite/ Nikon housing, Screws could be of a better quality (too soft) and is not readily available here in Australia to match up if need be, different pitch & thread makes it very difficult if the soft headed screw fails. something more universal would be a better option I think.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Ikelite 4060 SubStrobe DS-160:
I've owned many underwater strobes over the years and I have to say this is the best. Great power and very quick recycle. I love it so much I bought two more!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Ikelite 4060 SubStrobe DS-160:
Very good flash, good number guide and ligth by led
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Ikelite 4060 SubStrobe DS-160:
Having used the DS125 for years the 160 is a nice improvement. Having the additional output adjustments on the side are a much needed addition for manual shooting. The modeling light is dramatically improved and much more useable. The extra output is not as important for me as it might have been in the days of film since I rarely shoot at full power. It seems but I don't have enough experience yet to be sure that this is the case is that I get more shots at reduced power before needing to recharge.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Ikelite 4060 SubStrobe DS-160:
Very good design
Displaying reviews 1-11