Phottix have released an upgraded version of their Strato 4-in-1 wireless flash trigger. The Phottix Strato II Multi 5-in-1 adds Pixel Soldier-style wireless flash grouping and a host of other improvements to the radio remote, while retaining backwards compatibility with the original Strato.
Now, a Strato II receiver may be set to one of four groups: A, B, C or D. The transmitter can then fire any of 15 combinations of those groups for maximum flexibility, e.g. when using multiple lighting setups or metering large numbers of flashes. With this addition, Phottix have a head start on the upcoming Pixel Rook, which is also expected to offer TTL pass-through and wireless flash grouping together in one trigger. The Pixel Bishop already offers these features at around twice the price.
Group Combinations
- A only
- B only
- C only
- D only
- A + B
- A + C
- A + D
- B + C
- B + D
- C + D
- A + B + C
- A + B + D
- A + C + D
- B + C + D
- A + B + C + D (All)
By comparison, the Pixel Soldiers, Bishops and Rooks have only three wireless flash groups and seven different combinations.
Legacy Features
- TTL pass-through
- Wakes sleeping flashes (Canon and Nikon)
- Remote shutter release with autofocus support
- 3.5mm sync port
New Features
- On/off switch on the transmitter
- No more “fire all” channel switch
- Wireless flash grouping
- Dedicated test buttons on transmitter and receiver
- Notched locking wheel on both transmitter and receiver
- Locking pin on transmitter foot
Specifications
| Frequency | 2.4GHz |
|---|---|
| Range | 150m+ |
| Channels | 4 |
| Groups | 4 (A, B, C, D) |
| Group Combinations | 15 |
| Power Supply | AAA batteries, 5V DC |
| Sync Voltage | Up to 300V |
| Sync Ports | 2.5mm, 3.5mm |
| Remote Camera AF | Yes |
| TTL Pass-Through | Yes |
Compatibility
An original Strato receiver will be triggered by a Strato II transmitter on the same channel, regardless which combination of groups is selected. However, original Strato transmitters cannot set off Strato II receivers. Nikon and Canon transmitters and receivers are intercompatible.
Where to buy
A Strato II Multi kit, containing one transmitter and receiver, is priced at US$98.00 ($15 more than the original Strato). Extra receivers are available for US$57.00 each. Strato IIs are shipping now from the online Phottix Store.