Well, this is awkward. At exactly the same time that Profoto vaunt their D2 AirTTL as the “world’s fastest monolight“, German manufacturer Hensel has announced an even faster one.
On show at Photokina this week is the Hensel Cito 500, claimed to be the “fastest compact flash worldwide”. The Cito promises flash durations as quick as 1/100,000 second and a burst rate up to 40 flashes per second. Compare that to the Profoto D2, which claims 1/63,000 and 20fps.
As well as speed, the Hensel Cito has a 9-stop power range (from 500 J to 2 J), 300W halogen modelling lamp, built-in radio receiver and Hensel EH accessory mount. There is no TTL support.
The remote control includes Hensel’s Freemask technology, which lights the foreground and background separately in quick sequence, making it easier to cut out objects from the background in post production.
For more information, visit the Hensel Cito product page. The Cito is also on display at Photokina this week in Hall 4.1, booth I006.