The Metz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash is one of Metz's shoe mount flashes that are designed to be compatible with all digital cameras, both current and future models. To better facilitate compatibility with current and future cameras, this flash now features a built-in USB port that allows for future firmware updates via the internet.
The 48 AF-1 is designed to fully support a digital or film SLR camera's TTL system. In addition, it can be operated as a TTL slave unit that can be controlled by the camera's own built-in commander mode, a manufacturer's flash with master capabilities, or from a Metz 58 AF1.
The flash also features an auto zoom head from 24-105mm that can be set to match the camera's sensor, a full bounce and swivel reflector head, a built-in wide angle diffuser for 18mm coverage, and in addition, full manual control with 12 variable power output levels.
| Type | Shoe mount |
| Guide Number |
118' (36 m) at 50mm 158' (48 m) at 105mm |
| Angle of Coverage |
84 to 23° (24-105mm lenses in 35mm format) 100° (18mm) with included wide-angle diffuser |
| Auto Distance Range | No |
| Auto f/Stops | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Variable Power | Yes, 1/1 to 1/128th |
| TTL Dedication | Yes (i-TTL) |
| Bounce Head | Yes |
| Swivel Head | Yes |
| Zoom Head | 24-105mm (Auto zoom, flash senses focal length & adjusts; Manual zoom) |
| Off Camera Terminal | No |
| Recycle Time | 3.5 Seconds (based on fresh alkaline batteries & full power) |
| Power Source | 4 "AA" 1.5V batteries (alkaline, NiCad, NiMH & Lithium) |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 2.8 x 5.8 x 3.9" (71 x 148 x 99mm) |
| Weight | 15.5 oz (440 g) [w/o batteries] |
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
I researched and found this to be the best for my needs. [...]
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
I replaced an SB600 with one of these metz 48 af units. I killed it in about a year and a half of heavy use and drops (wedding photogs aren't known for being nice to gear) I liked it enough that i bought the same unit to replace the one I killed. I also have its big brother unit that acts as a commander... but if I am not using CLS I use the 48 as its menus are MUCH easier than the bigger unit.
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
It's simple to use and versatile.
I used this flash as a slave one as well as master one.
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
I use it with Nikon D90. Good price for this quality.
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
Works well, with perfect i-TTL integration. In just the first few weeks of use, it has already become evident that this flash (as might any flash, for that matter) improves the quality of my photographs in high-light and low-light situations, while increasing the versatility of my current lenses. Only desire is for optical trigger (so that flash can be triggered by built-in flash on older camera).
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
1. fast response and recycle
2. TTL works very well with Nikon D80
3. TTL balance mode works well for fill flash operation even though manual fill flash is preferable
4. I would recommend to anybody with Nikon DSLR's (cannot speak for other brands or models)
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
TTL format very easy to use with my Nikon D90
Batteries keep a charge for quite a while
A well built flash for a wonderful price!!
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
Nice flash, compatible with Nikon's CLS, Firmware update via usb, German made, more power than SB600
Not 5 star rating: no pouch included, no stand for remote use and when tilts is not as firm as SB600, but worth the price difference
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
Most portable flash units are similar in output, weight, quality of light, etc., at least those priced in the same neighborhood.
What sets this unit off is:
1. The simple to understand LCD panel. Not only is it MUCH simpler than the SB-600 I had. The LCD panel display is larger and much easier to see and to understand the symbols and numbers on the screen. They really thought about using the flash when they designed this panel.
2. The build quality. It just feel tougher than the equivalent Nikon strobes.
I am a semi-pro photographer. I trust this Metz unit much more than the Nikon flashes that I have used. I have had several Metz units over 30+ years, and none of them has ever failed me. I cannot say that about Nikon flash units.
The only negative is the hot shoe lock. I prefer the one on my SB-400 that I use for travel & as backup for the Metz. It's simpler, faster, and just about as reliable.
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
Metz 48 AF-1 works like charm in all modes I have tested.
TTL - Direct, Bounce, Swivel modes all work very well and as advertised.
I have used it together with my other studio lights in SLAVE (TTL) mode and the exposures are great.
The user's guide that comes with the flash could be better. It needs to be read a few times before things become clear.
I would definitely recommend the flash to others.
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
I bought the mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL for my Nikon D40... price was a huge concern for me, but as others compared it favorably to the Nikon S600, and it had loads more power than the Nikon, the choice became a lot less difficult. I was able to use this product right out of the box... it's fast, my photographs have improved drastically, and if anything I'm only upset that I didn't buy this sooner.
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
Great all around flash. When a stronger flash or more flexible flash is needed than the built in flash, this baby shines!
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
After owning this flash for a few months I can honestly say it is an excellent flash. It has all the key features I was looking for (swivel/bounce/zoom head, i-TTL metering, reasonably powerful, slave mode) at a very affordable price. The controls and menus are easy enough, though not initially intuitive, which probably brings up the biggest downside to this flash. When you want to cycle through the menu it requires a double button press that (unless you have extraordinarily large hands) requires both hands. Not a big deal if it's mounted on a stand or your camera happens to be on a tripod, but if you are carrying your camera with the flash on the hot shoe it is a bit awkward and annoying. Other than that it is a great flash and I can see myself purchasing other Metz flashes in the future.
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
Easy to set up. Clear instructions. Works great with my Nikon D300s
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
I had SB600, sold it and got Metz Mecablitz 48 AF-1. This flash recharge so fast and can cope with my D300 shutter speed. Just like other German technology, this is "First Class". Durability - this will last forever! Easy to use programs with only few buttons to play around.
Get yours now! You will not be disappointed.
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
Product itself is well made. Very good exposure, bounce works well. Ordering with a Omni Bounce gives a third option. I also own a SB600 which does a great job. But Metz AF48 gives a slightly more pleasing exposure. Also Metz gives a faster recycle over a longer period of use which probably translates into longer battery life although both recycle fast when batteries are fresh. Could use a soft case Metz fits in a Nikon SS600 case without Omni Bounce and SS900 case with Omni Bounce attached
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
Taking pictures at birthday parties I had no red-eyes at a shooting distance of five to ten feet. With my Nikon SB-600 I had to use bounce flash to avoid red-eye. My SB-600 died suddenly and I bought the Metz 48. The Metz puts out very even light. I am pleased with it.
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
I use this flash for making portraits, for in room photography and for additional light, when making shots on the street.
This flash is very silent one - no buzzing charging sounds at all. I hate them. Very quick and powerful. I was choosing between Nikon SB-600 and Metz 48, and preferred Metz because it is faster, quieter and more useful.
Screen menu and controls looks unusual in beginning, but after some time they are OK and better ;-)))
Built-in reflector is perfect.
I love this item ;-)
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
The Metz 48 AF-1 is an outstanding flash in this price range. It exceeded my expectations and has performed flawlessly. TTL metering with Nikon D300 is spot on.
Ease of operation and battery life good.
Hot shoe attachent could be a bit stronger or be replaced with a quick release.
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Comments about Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 TTL Shoe Mount Flash for Nikon i-TTL:
Compact, TTL compatible, has a vertical design that reduces the risk of red eyes. It is very powerful, is equipped with USB connection to update its firmware and its head is rotating, allowing all kinds of rebounds.
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