9 out of 9 people found this review helpful.
Better, but not there yet...
Date of Review: Mar 8, 2002
The Bottom Line: Offers significantly improved capability over the built-in on a Cybershot DSC-S70, but doesn't compare to equivalent priced SLR flashes. Inferior plastic hot shoe breaks and cannot be replaced.
I've owned a Sony Cybershot DSC-S70 for over a year and love it. My biggest complaint was that the built-in flash is extremely harsh, even when set to the 'low' setting. And if you decide to use any accessory lenses, the adapter tube blocks part of the flash, creating nasty shadows over part of your picture.
Since Sony decided to use a proprietary connection (not a standard SLR flash connection), this flash is the only option I found. The DSC-S70 has no mount, instead, the flash comes with a bracket that attaches to the tripod screw on the bottom. I believe that a mount has been added to the S75 model.
While this flash is significantly better than the built-in, it still needs work. It is somewhat harsh (bright). The ability to bounce helps, but I've had to place a filter over the flash on several occasions to reduce its intensity.
Finally, the plastic hot-shoe on the bottom of the flash is very cheap. Definitely not strong enough to support the weight of the flash. And if it breaks, Sony won't sell you the replacement part!!!
I can't suggest any alternatives, but I would not recommend this flash. Maybe Sony will wise up and improve it's design or allow the use of more traditional flashes.
