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View Full Version : Does Anybody Know of/Use Godard Flash Equipment



Ari
9-Sep-2014, 07:41
I am thinking of acquiring some lighting gear for the occasional time when I might prefer the look of studio lighting to daylight (extremely rarely).
I have a chance to get 3 power packs and four heads for about $400, and I've verified that everything works as it should; the seller is a friend I have bought from before.

Here's the list:
1x Sotexi A150 power pack
2x Sotexi 160
4x flash heads

The problem is, I've never heard of Godard and there is scant information online about them.
I found out they were made in France, were quite respected back in the 90s, then disappeared in North America because of distributor problems.

- I'd like to know if anyone has an operating manual.
- I'd like to know how much power this set-up might give me.
- I'd like to know if any accessories (speed rings, beauty dishes, etc) from another maker are compatible with Godard.
- I understand they only made asymmetrical power packs. Any chance they are compatible with Profoto accessories?

In fact, any information would help, and I will certainly continue my own research.

Thanks in advance.

Bob Salomon
9-Sep-2014, 08:32
I competed against them at various times with Rollei Studio Lighting, Broncolor and Multiblitz.

I would doubt that they would be compatible with ProFoto.
Just contact Chimera, Westcott, etc. and ask them about speed rings.
The best chance that something from another manufacturer would fit their heads would be from other French makers like Balcar or Venca.

I believe Peter Bradshaw might have been involved with them originally. If you can find him he may be able to answer your questions.

Ari
9-Sep-2014, 08:41
Thank you very much, Bob, that's great information.

Bob Salomon
9-Sep-2014, 08:47
Thank you very much, Bob, that's great information.

Back then there were also some dealers, like Pan Pacific in L.A. that imported some studio strobes and view cameras directly. This may have been one of them. But don't go looking for Pan Pacific, they have been gone for a couple of decades.

Ari
9-Sep-2014, 09:31
Thanks again, Bob.

The price is pretty cheap, but I'm still wondering if these are good quality strobes?
Feature-wise, they appear to have been ahead of their time, but that doesn't necessarily translate into long-term stability and robustness.