So this is a cheaper version of the 600? Is it compatible with Canon speedlights and will work with my 430EXii?
Currently, no one has reverse engineered the new Canon rt protocol so 3rd party flashes are optical remote only or completely different radio trigger systems with the added bulk.
- the new 600EX-RT to future proof my setup. Obviously with the 430EX II I know that the radio functionality won't work but hopefully the next speedlight I'd buy would be another 600EX-RT so it would make the setup more flexible. I'd also sell the Flex/Mini as the 600 would be my new Master.
- another 430EX II...if I do this do I have to buy another Flex TT5 to make them both talk to each other? If I do then it seems pointless to take this option but let me know.
Sometimes the optical link is annoying, but in 90% it works just fine for what I shoot so that I'm happy with my 600rt+430ex2 combination.
I wouldn't recommend buying a 2nd 430ex2 (with 3rd party triggers) if you need any of the "big" flash features: faster recycling time, more power (with diffuser, bounces), external power option, 200mm reflector (600rt), build-in reflector card, head can tilt a little forward, much better on-flash menu, strobe function, fec bracketing