Phottix: Phottix announces next generation of Odin TTL flash controllers

Flash and accessory manufacturer Phottix has released details of the second generation of Odin flash controllers that will go on sale mid-February. The Odin II units, which allow wireless TTL control of hotshoe and portable studio flash units, will add two extra control groups and 28 additional channels to the radio trigger's reach, and will make the user interface easier to handle. The Odin system, which is compatible with Nikon, Canon and Sony cameras can be used with the company's battery-powered Indra 500 and 300 portable studio flash heads, as well as the company's Mitros hotshoe flash units. The new models also add an AF assist lamp, 10 new custom functions and digital ID for channels 5 to 32 to ensure the correct units are communicating. The Odin system is divided into transmitters and receivers, and Phottix's own flash units have the receivers built-in. Photographers using Canon, Nikon or Sony branded flash units can use their hotshoe flash units with an Odin receiver to take advantage of the better range and connection of radio transmission over the line-of-sight systems camera brands tend to produce. Radio also works better when shooting outside in bright conditions.The company says that new firmware will be released for the Mitros and Indra flash units to make them compatible with the new features. The Canon and Nikon models will be available first, with those for Sony cameras arriving in late April. The transmitters will cost £160, while receivers will be £125.For more information visit the Phottix website.Press release: Introducing the Phottix Odin II TTL Flash TriggerPhottix adds cutting edge functionality and features to its flagship triggerEagerly anticipated by thousands of Odin customers, the Odin II is the result of requests from Professional Photographers demanding more from their TTL flash systems. Phottix is delivering on its promises to provide the very best system available today. Unrivalled Control and Streamlined User InterfaceThe Odin II allows more control than ever before. The controls are logical, simple to use, and allow extremely fast adjustments.With five groups, A, B, C, D and E, the dedicated quick access buttons allow changes to be made by simply turning the new thumb wheel which is perfectly placed below the improved large LCD screen to adjust the compensation. The backlit LCD panel shows the settings at a glance. Now you can control five channels or groups of lights at the touch of a button, in TTL Mode or in a combination of full manual mode and TTL - the choice is yours. When switching a group off, its display line disappears from the screen, showing just the groups remaining active.Backward CompatibilityThe Odin II system is compatible with the original Odin system, Phottix Mitros+ Speedlights, the award-winning Indra360 and Indra500 TTL Studio lights, Strato and Strato II receivers, and Atlas II in receiver mode. Using channels 1 to 4 you can work with the kit you already own with the Phottix Odin II.More Channels and Digital IDTo take advantage of the Phottix Odin II, a total of 32 channels can be used, channels 5 to 32 use the full functionality of the Odin II receiver, including a user-set digital ID for the ultimate in secure triggering. Users can remotely control Speedlight zoom settings, providing the perfect coverage from a wide angle to a spot light. When shooting with the Phottix Indra360/500 series, the Odin II transmitter also offers remote modelling light control and full light ratio controls.High Speed Sync and Overdrive SyncHigh Speed Sync with TTL flashes and Overdrive Sync with manual enable flash photography at up to 1/8000 second for creative photographers. The newly added AF assist light makes autofocus a breeze in dimly lit locations. An additional ten custom functions allow users to customise the Odin II, including switching on/off the audible beep, screen brightness, an AF Illuminator function and the ODS system control functionality, as well as a full factory reset should you need it.Firmware UpdatesFirmware upgrades for the Phottix Mitros+ and Phottix Indra360/500 will soon be available to take advantage of the new features of the Odin II - these will be announced shortly via the Phottix Journal and on the Phottix.com website.Major Features 5 groups A, B, C, D and E32 channels with user-set Digital ID on channels 5 to 32Group buttons and thumbwheel control for fast operationTTL Power Control +/- 3EVManual Power Control 1/1 to 1/128thHigh Speed Sync - up to 1/8000s on compatible camerasSecond Curtain Sync (Nikon and Sony only)AF Assist LightFlash zoom controlModelling Light Control with Indra500/3602.4 GHz, Range up to 100 metresCompatible with Indra500/360 TTL, Mitros+, Odin, Strato, Strato II and Atlas IIAlways up to date via the latest Firmware.Odin II for Nikon and Canon will be available from all Platinum Dealers week commencing 15th of February 2016, the Sony Odin II is expected to arrive in late April.