Need Light Meter Recommendations | My SinarSix isn't working ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[manfrominternet]

I think the SinarSix/Gossen Light Meter (see photo) that I purchased either isn't working properly, or I truly have absolutely no idea how to use it. Because of this, I find myself relying on a light meter app on my iPhone, which isn't ideal, but it has worked relatively well. Anyway, when I compare the suggested shutter speed reading from the SinarSix to the reading from my iPhone app, it's wayyy off. It seems like the SinarSix only gives me approximately accurate numbers when in shade or when the sun is going down. Maybe I have the wrong reading ring? The only ring I have for it is an "S" ring. Apparently there is another "N" ring, "X" ring, and "P" ring, but I don't know if those are for different, more deluxe, SinarSix models.

Anyway, that said, I think I need a new light meter asap, preferably used and from eBay.

Do you guys have any recommendations for light meters or spot meters, or should I go on using my iPhone app/not give up on my SinarSix?

[Pieter]

Have you tried having it checked by Quality Light Metric in Hollywood? Call them to drop it off (they don't have a storefront). Very highly recommended.

[manfrominternet]

Have you tried having it checked by Quality Light Metric in Hollywood? Call them to drop it off (they don't have a storefront). Very highly recommended.

Whoa! Thanks for the suggestion!!! �� I had no idea that LA had a dedicated light meter repair shop.

I'll contact them tomorrow, for sure!

[Jerry Bodine]

Have you tried having it checked by Quality Light Metric in Hollywood? Call them to drop it off (they don't have a storefront). Very highly recommended.

The storefront does exist:

Quality Light Metric Co.
7095 Hollywood Blvd # 550
Hollywood, Ca. 90028

This is the address where I shipped my Lunasix. It shows on Google Maps.

[Pieter]

The storefront does exist:

Quality Light Metric Co.
7095 Hollywood Blvd # 550
Hollywood, Ca. 90028

This is the address where I shipped my Lunasix. It shows on Google Maps.

That's where you send it. For drop off and pick up, he uses the Mail & More storefront downstairs.

[LabRat]

The storefront does exist:

Quality Light Metric Co.
7095 Hollywood Blvd # 550
Hollywood, Ca. 90028

This is the address where I shipped my Lunasix. It shows on Google Maps.

Anyone really should have their meters checked by one of the few service centers left, because once they are no longer here, (and techs retire), you have to find another older meter that might need service too, but a fresh calibrated working meter should last a long time (if not damaged)... Probably will not be made again...

Take advantage of service people who will do a good job for much less than an average car repair, and use with confidence for years to come...

The same goes for your shutters, bellows + other stuff (there are a # of resources now, but maybe not so much later), and keep a win-win situation for the shops and yourself...

Your gear will sorta stay the same, get worse, but not better unless serviced as time goes on, and might even become more important to you later, and you will be glad you did in the past (now)...

Steve K

[Sirius Glass]

The storefront does exist:

Quality Light Metric Co.
7095 Hollywood Blvd # 550
Hollywood, Ca. 90028

This is the address where I shipped my Lunasix. It shows on Google Maps.

Actually George no longer has that office. Instead you can ship to the FedEx store at that address or take to that FedEx store to drop off and later pick up.

[Dan Fromm]

If you can live with an averaging meter, look for a Horseman 4x5 meter. If you decide to shop for one, buy only with the right of return. I've bought more than one of their 6x9ers, finally got a good one. Many are no good and since no parts are available, only a good one will do.

See my article on Horseman meters. There's a link to it in the list. If you don't know what the list is, there's a link to it in the first post in this https://www.largeformatphotography.i...mainly)-lenses discussion.

[manfrominternet]

If you can live with an averaging meter, look for a Horseman 4x5 meter. If you decide to shop for one, buy only with the right of return. I've bought more than one of their 6x9ers, finally got a good one. Many are no good and since no parts are available, only a good one will do.

See my article on Horseman meters. There's a link to it in the list. If you don't know what the list is, there's a link to it in the first post in this https://www.largeformatphotography.i...mainly)-lenses discussion.

Wow, those Horseman meters look great! I just checked them out on eBay. Is there a good reason to get an averaging meter like this over, say, a spot meter? (I'm still learning about meters.)

[Greg]

I wouldn't give up on your SinarSix/Gossen Light Meter. My present one worked great for years, then started to behave erratically. Batteries checked out fine so thought the meter was on its way out, after all had to be 30 years old plus. Turned out to be that on the bottom of the screw-in battery cover/cap the thin metal piece was not bent up to make contact with the face of the battery but was flat against the bottom of the cap.
I would suggest getting a hold of an IB for the SinarSix if you don't already have one. Before acquiring the IB, had a hard time using the meter. After acquiring a IB for it, using the meter became a breeze to use.
Good Luck