Combining the strengths of its predecessor 550EX while providing additional functions at higher speeds, the Speedlite 580EX is Canon’s new flagship flash unit featuring a higher maximum guide number, shorter recycle time, autozoom control for image sensor size, and design improvements for easier handling by digital SLR users ranging from professional to advanced amateur.

Increased maximum guide number
With a maximum guide number of 58 (105mm, ISO 100 in meters), Speedlite 580EX improves on the 550EX maximum of 55 to optimize flash output and power. The improved design of the flash head is another reason for increased flash output.

Shorter recycle time for capturing best shutter chance
Thanks to modifications to the battery contacts and recharging circuit, the recycle time of the Speedlite 580EX has been made 25% shorter than available with the 550EX.

Styling and functionality to match the latest line
Reducing width by 4mm and weight by 30g, the Speedlite 580EX matches sophistication with handling ease. The flash head’s built-in wide panel expands flash coverage to suit wide-angle shots of 14mm angle of view. A catchlight panel generates a weakened light toward the subject for lively portraits when extended and the wide panel retracted.

Function advantages especially designed for digital SLRs
When the Speedlite 580EX receives image size data from a supported EOS digital camera, the flash head automatically zooms to match the effective angle of view. The resulting flash coverage is more accurate. When color temperature data is automatically transmitted from the Speedlite 580EX to a camera, the camera sets the color balance for the optimal flash shot.

Stress-free function selection through redesigned dial
The newly adopted Select dial simplifies the main operation interface from holding down the + or – button to turning the dial. Among other advantages, the new layout adds a high-speed synch button, centers the SEL/SET button, and relocates wireless functions to the zoom button.

Retained and upgraded functions for greater versatility
Flash exposure control system, wireless flash control with multiple Speedlites, and even distribution of light over the zoom range are retained. One new function is the expanded range of the AF-assist beam, compatible with all EOS AF cameras, including the EOS 20D. Left-right 180° bounce, one-touch bounce lock release, and improved controllability for greater exposure stability are among the upgraded functions.

What's in the box:
Canon Speedlite 580EX and soft case

Though TTL compatible with all Canon EOS cameras and the manual-focus T90 SLR, the Canon Speedlite 420EX flash is also E-TTL compatible with all A-type bodies: EOS-1v, EOS-3, Elan 7 / 7E, Elan II/IIE, Rebel 2000, Rebel G, and EOS IX and IX Lite. The E-TTL function gives you features like high-speed FP sync mode and FE lock (spot/partial flash metering). The swivel head of the 420EX lets you bounce the light off the surrounding surfaces, giving your images soft, professional-quality lighting.

This flash also works as a wireless "slave" flash with EOS-1v, EOS-3, Elan 7 / 7E, and D30 bodies. The remote flash firing is controlled entirely by a master unit--such as the Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2, Speedlite 550EX, or Macro Ring Lite MR-14EX--connected to the camera, making it fast and simple to set up. When used with the EOS-1V, EOS-3, or EOS D30 cameras, additional features such as lighting ratio control and modeling flash are also supported by the 420EX.