Aux Sync Jack Flash Mods - Complete Listing Bottom of Page
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See: Why You Want this Aux Sync Jack Mod
(***)ScrewLock PC Jack Added to 580EX Flash
Normally the Aux Sync Jack Mod is done using the sub-mini jack due to a size constraint, and the difficulty of finding the ScrewLock PC jack itself, as can be seen for other flash units throughout this section, including the 580EX. In the image left, (and the inset image of the foot assembly), you can see the ScrewLock PC Jack has been addedd to the 580EX flash unit. While the normal Aux Sync Jack Mod is $60 for the 580EX, it is an additional $40 to use the ScrewLock PC jack due to the difficulty in securing this item, for a total of $100 for this mod. Sync cords are available separately, (Sync Cord Section) and either the Standard PC Plug, or the better, more reliable ScrewLock PC Plug can be used in connecting this flash to a radio or directly to your camera.(***)Sigma EF-500 DG Super Mods (Sony Version)
This version of the Sigma ED-500 DG Super (Sony) can not be used off camera and fired using a hot shoe, or a simple Aux Sync Jack as in the Canon and Nikon versions, but needs to be triggered by being electronically tied into the optical sensor circuit. This Aux Sync Jack (mini jack) is wired so the optical sensor is mechanically disabled when a mini plug is inserted into the mini jack, so that the optical sensor will not falsely trigger the flash from the light of another flash unit (sometimes the RF interference signal from another Sigma unit will cause some false triggering when in close proximity). This Aux Sync Jack Mod is $75, but does not include any sync cords, which are available in various forms in the Sync Cord Section, starting at $15.Also shown on this specific example is the Extra Detent Mod ($55), which adds extra stops in the head angle at 15, 30, and 45 degrees, as well as the Extended Clockwise Rotation Mod ($55), which allows the flash head to rotate beyond the factory set 90 degrees to the right (clockwise from above).
(***) Extra Detent Mod - Sigma
Here the Sigma EF-500 DG Super has been modded to allow Extra Detents in the vertical head angle. As the flash comes from the factory, it hard locks at 0 and 90 dgrees, with soft locks at 60 and 75 degrees. The new detents (soft locks) are placed at 15 degree intervals, so now the flash will stop at 15, 30 and 45 degrees, in addition to the stops as originally set. This mod requires dismantling the upper flash head, while the Extended Clockwise Rotation Mod requires dismantling the lower flash head. This mod is $40 when done along with the Aux Sync Jack Mod, or $55 when the mod is done alone.(***)
Extended Clockwise Rotation Mod - Sigma, Canon
The Extended Clockwise Rotation Mod is shown here for the Sigma EF-500 DG Super flash unit (above left), and the Canon 540EZ flash unit (above right). The mod happens to be more difficult on these flash units than for the Nikon SB600, and while the Aux Sync Jack Mod is only $60 for the Sigma unit (Canon or Nikon foot, $70 for the Canon units), the Extended Clockwise Rotation Mod is $40 when the Aux Sync Jack Mod is done, or $55 for the mod alone.
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Extended Clockwise Rotation Mod - Nikon SB800
The newest flash mod, is for an older flash, the Nikon SB800. Even though this flash has a PC jack, adding the Aux Sync Jack as shown provides an alternative connection point to match other modded flash units. Since this flash does not have a removable foot assembly, this mod requires taking most of the flash apart to gain
access and room for the sub-mini jack, the Mod Fee is being kept to the same $70 as many of the other flash units. The standard 16 inch sync cord ending in a straight mini plug is included with this mod, and other plugs, and cords are available as needed and listed in the other posts in this section. While the flash is apart for the Aux Sync Jack Mod, the flash head can be modified to allow an increased clockwise rotation from the factory maximum 90 degrees, to about 150 degrees, as shown in the right image above. It would be $30 to do the Extended Clockwise Rotation Mod along with the Aux Sync Jack Mod, or $45 to do just this mod alone, without doing the Aux Sync Jack Mod.(***) 580EX II Re-Wire Mod
The 580 EX II has an included PC jack, but it is not active in the all important Manual-Master mode (click link for detailed explanation of the different modes of operation). This mod will make the PC jack active in this and all modes of the flash for $60. A straight sync cord, up to 10 inches long, ScrewLock PC plug to a straight mini plug is available for $30 ($35 for the RA mini plug). Coiled rubber sync cords with the ScrewLock PC plug and straight mini plug up to 30 inches are $35, and $45 for lengths up to 5 feet. The safety clip is inlcuded on the 5 foot cords. Additionally, the sync jack is NOT active to fire a radio transmitter when the flash is in the camera hot shoe, UNLESS this mod is done!Master-Manual mode is used when this flash is set up off camera and is physically connected (sync cord) to a radio receiver (ie PW), and can then be triggered by the radio set wirelessly (RF signals) AND also communicate wirelessly (IR signals) and trigger other off camera Canon EX flash units set up as Manual-Slave units.
For a GREAT way to mount the PW (Pocket Wizard) to this and all flash units, see the PW Caddy ($16 each)
IMPORTANT NOTE (11-18-07): When this flash is used with the Canon 1D Mark III, and as of 6-18-08 also the 40D, the sync jack will NOT output a signal to fire a radio transmitter, even if this mod is done. Doing the mod will, however, allow the flash to output a signal to fire a transmitter with all the other Canon bodies, and will also allow an input signal from a radio receiver in all 6 of the operational modes, regardless which Canon body is being used.
The current workaround here would be to connect the radio transmitter directly to the camera PC jack, instead of the 580EX II, or use the 580EX II flash as the off camera flash, and use a different flash for the on camera fill unit. The PW can be mounted either to the flash head (PW Caddy), or even to the camera bottom using the Modified Tripod Quick Release Setup, shown here.
UPDATE (1-29-08): Testing is STILL in process to filter the trigger output so this combination of flash and body works just as it does with the other Canon bodies. I hope to have a definite answer soon! Stay tuned!
UPDATE (5-13-09): I now have a work around trigger. It is currently being called the "Pre-Flash Ignore Trigger", and more of the writeup can be seen in the New Projects Section, at the attached link. This little device will ignore the pulsing and pre-flash, and trigger a radio transmitter, or a slave flash just when the main flash fires. The device can be made in various forms and configurations. Since it is not a mass produced item, it is available with different options (more to follow).
See: Why You Want this Aux Sync Jack Mod
(***) 580EX II PC Jack Swap Mod
Here the same 580 EX II has the PC jack replaced with either a mini jack or a sub-mini jack, and the matching standard sync cable is included for $25 ($35 if done without the Re-Wire Mod). The mod to re-wire the unit to allow the sync jack to be active in all modes (including Manual-Master) is $60. The 6 foot coiled sync cord as seen in the Sync Cord Section (and often used with my original 580 EX sync mod shown below) is $35, has a RA sub-mini molded plug, the safety clip, and a straight mini plug.(***) 580EX Aux Sync Jack Mod
The Aux Sync Jack Mod here is for the Canon 580 EX Flash and the rest of the Canon line of flash units. This mod will add the aux sync jack (sub-mini jack) to the flash unit - the one that Canon "forgot" to add, and now is only included in a crippled form for the newer 580 EX II (above). Each mod includes one Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord, and is $60 (S/H $15). You can replace the straight sync cable with the 6' Coiled Cable for $20, (shown in the picture) or it can be bought separately (as an extra or backup) for $40. For each mod done, you can purchase one extra standard sync cable for $10 (normally $15). As described in the OEM Replacement Notes below, you may be able to get up to a $30 refund or credit on your original foot assembly if you wish. This mod can be done on a flash unit you send in to me, or just the Foot Assembly you send in to me, or on a new Foot Assembly ($45 additional charge).(***)Aux Sync Jack Case Mod
If you have one of the original Aux Sync Jack Mods done for the 580EX flash unit, the area around the sub-mini jack will likely look like that on the left side in the image of the Aux Sync Jack Case Mod. This is fine if you are using only a Narrow Neck Sub-Mini Plug on your sync cord. This was the only type of plug and sync cord that was available when this mod was first offered. The right side of the image of the Aux Sync Jack Case Mod shows how the case needs to be modified by reducing the plastic in a half-moon shape (follow the blue line) around the sub-mini jack in order for a standard sub-mini jack to fit properly. This is an easy DIY item, or I can do it for you for a $15 S/H fee in the USA.(***)Sub-Mini Plug Camparison - Narrow Neck Mod:
The Sub-Mini Plug Comparison - Narrow Neck Mod shows the sub-mini plug that is factory molded onto the 6 Foot Coiled Sync Cable on the left. This sub-mini plug has a reduced neck, although the overall plug size is longer than the standard sub-mini plug (seen on the right). It also happens to be a 3 conductor (notice the 2 black insulator bands) sub-mini plug that can carry 2 different information channels. This was the plug and sync cord that was originally offered when the Aux Sync Jack Mod was first introduced several years ago. The standard sub-mini plug seen on the right has been custom modified to have a narrow neck to match the factory plug on the left as a way to fit into the tighter spaces that previously only the left plug could fit into. Doing this Narrow Neck Mod will add $15 to the cost of whatever this plug is being used on.(***) 580EX Metal Foot Plate Mod
Here is the 580EX Foot Assembly with a Metal Foot Plate and Lock Assembly taken from the 580EX II, replacing the existing plastic parts of the 580EX. So many photogs have been asking for this, but since the metal foot plate is not available from Canon as a replacement item the way the plastic foot plate is, an entire foot assembly from the 580 EX II is needed to harvest the foot plate and locking mechanism, obviously adding to the costs of this mod. To add this metal foot plate and locking assembly to any of the Canon flash units will cost $75. The rubber gasket is optional at $5 with this mod, or $10 as a separate item for replacement since Canon no longer includes this item when purchasing the foot assembly. You can either send me your entire flash unit, or just the 580EX foot assembly itself (4 screws and a single connector to remove). If you want this mod on a new 580EX foot assembly, you have to add that cost in as well at $45. Also shown is the Aux Sync Jack added to the 580EX foot assembly, which is still $60, and includes the standard 16 inch sync cord, ending in a straight mini plug.(***)
Important: While this metal foot plate is stronger than the previous plastic foot plate, remember that this really just transfers the load to another section of the assembly (up or down). The locking ring and metal foot plate is attached to the rest of the assembly with 4 small screws, and the entire foot assembly is attached to the rest of the flash also with 4 small screws, all of these just threaded into plastic. While the orginal plastic foot plate was the inexpensive breakaway point in the original design, now that the metal foot plate is in place, any fall or extra stress to the assembly will result in a break either in the camera hot shoe, or the rest of the foot assembly of the flash (see image below of just this event).
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Extra Important: This mod was originally done for a photog who wanted it done, period. Please understand, that this mod will NOT make your flash attachment stronger; it will only make it a more expensive repair bill when things break, not if they break. The image below shows the metal foot mod having broken off from the housing that is still firmly attached to the original 580Ex foot assembly. As indicated by the enlargements in the blue circles, the screws didn't just come loose, but all 4 plastic collars broke loose. To repair an item like this involves either putting a new 580EX foot assembly back in place which is $45 + S/H, or reattaching a new metal foot plate and locking assembly into the existing still attached housing, and then resoldering all the wires back together, which is a repair of about $55 + S/H.
If you ask my opinion, I would skip this mod entirely, and buy an extra foot plate ($10) or extra foot assembly ($45) for disaster planning. The foot assembly can be changed in 5 minutes with a small screwdriver, while the foot plate will likely take 15 to 20 minutes (4 extra screws, 5 litle, easy to lose springs, and small pins).For a GREAT way to mount the PW (Pocket Wizard) to this and all flash units, see the PW Caddy ($16 each)
(***) Short RA-RA Sync Cord
The images below (click to enlarge in a new window) show how a shortened RA-RA sync cord (10.25 inches) is used to neatly connect a PW (mounted on a PW Caddy) to a flash unit that has the Aux Sync Jack added. The cord allows full rotation of the flash head, but is not
so long that it gets in the way. This sync cord is $20 by itself, or just $5 when the Aux Sync Jack Mod is done on your flash unit. The PW Caddy is available for $16 each. When the Aux Sync Jack is on the right side of the flash like for the Canon 550EX, or the 540EZ or the Metz 54, the length of the shortened cord should be 12 inches for full 180 degree rotation of the flash head.(***) Canon EX Flash - Sonia Optical Trigger
Who said the Canon EX flash units (580 EX, 550 EX, 430 EX) don't work with the Sonia Optical Slave Trigger? I have added the electronics into several devices (hot shoe, connectors, etc) for easy to use, repeatable results. Here is a link to the details and different connectors: Canon EX Flash - Reliable Optical Trigger Connections. The images below show 2 of the different devices that will allow the Sonia Optical Trigger to repeatedly fire the Canon EX flash units.
The image on the left shows the special cable attached to a standard hot shoe to mini plug adapter, while the right image shows the special cable connected directly into the Aux Sync Jack of the 580 EX unit.(***) 430 EX Aux Sync Jack Mod
This image shows the Aux Sync Jack added to the Canon 430 EX Flash unit. The mod is $70 for this unit, and includes the Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord. You can replace the straight sync cable with the 6' Coiled Cable for $20, or it can be bought separately for $40. For each mod done, you can purchase one extra standard sync cable for $10 (normally $15). As described in the OEM Replacement Notes below, you may be able to get up to a $30 refund or credit on your original foot assembly if you wish.For a GREAT way to mount the PW (Pocket Wizard) to this and all flash units, see the PW Caddy ($16 each)
See: Why You Want this Aux Sync Jack Mod
(***) 430 EX Aux Sync Jack on OEM Foot Assy
This image shows how the 430 EX Aux Sync Jack is placed in the foot assembly. Notice how steep the sides of the housing are, which is why the jack protrudes out to make a nice neat finished look. This foot assembly can be purchased for $45, in addition to the mod fee of $70. As described in the OEM Replacement Notes below, you may be able to get up to a $30 refund or credit on your original foot assembly if you wish.(***) 580EX II Jack Swap / Re-Wire on OEM Foot
This image shows the 580EXII Aux Sync Jack with the sub-mini jack replacing the PC jack. This foot assembly can be purchased for $55, in addition to the mod re-wiring fee of $60. The rubber gasket is optional at $5 with this mod, or $10 as a separate item for replacement since Canon no longer includes this item when purchasing the foot assembly. To swap the PC jack and replace it with the sub-mini (or mini) jack, and provide the Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord is $25 ($35 if done without the Re-Wire Mod). You can replace the straight sync cable with the 6' Coiled Cable for $20, or it can be bought separately for $40. For each mod done, you can purchase one extra standard sync cable for $10 (normally $15). As described in the OEM Replacement Notes below, you may be able to get up to a $30 refund or credit on your original foot assembly if you wish.See: Why You Want this Aux Sync Jack Mod
(***) Foot Plate Canon EX Flash
The Replacement Foot Plate for Canon Flash Units (580 EX, 550 EX, and 430 EX) is $20, and can be used to repair a broken foot plate for the popular Canon flash units. This replacement foot plate can also be used to refurbish a 580 EX or 430 EX foot assembly being evaluated for a credit or refund. See the the OEM Replacement Notes below. It is an extra $20 to have me replace (or to reset it if you have helped first) the foot plate for the 580EX and the 430EX, and $25 extra for the 550EX. Sorry, but instructions are NOT included.(***) Olympus FS-FL50 Aux Sync Jack
This image, and the one below, show the Aux Sync Jack added to the Olympus FS-FL50, and the Sigma EF-500 DG Super flash units. The mod is $60 for each unit, and includes the Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord. As with the other Flash Mods, you can replace the straight sync cable with the 6' Coiled Cable for $20.(***) Olympus FL-50R Aux Sync Jack
The Olympus FL-50R can also have the Aux sync Jack, and it is also just $60, and includes the Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord ending in the straight mini plug. As with many of these Aux Sync Jack Mods, the jack can be placed on either side of the foot, based on your preferences.(***)Extended Rotation Mod - Olympus FL-50
The Extended Rotation Mod for the Olympus FL-50 will allow the flash to turn from the factory set 90 degrees clockwise, up up about 150 degrees clockwise. This mod is $40 when the Aux Sync Jack Mod is done at the same time, or $55 when the mod is done alone.(***) Sigma EF-500 DG Super Aux Sync Jack
separately for $40. For each mod done, you can purchase one extra standard sync cable for $10 (normally $15).The mod for the Sigma EF-500 Super (Sony version) is $70 due to the extra electronics needed for this mod.
See: Why You Want this Aux Sync Jack Mod
(***) Nikon Sb-600 Aux Sync Jack
Adding the Aux Sync Jack to the Nikon SB-600 costs $70 and includes the Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord. You can replace the straight sync cable with the 6' Coiled Cable for $20, or it can be bought separately for $40. For each mod done, you can purchase one extra standard sync cable for $10 (normally $15).(***) Canon 550 EX Aux Sync Jack
Adding the Aux Sync Jack to the Canon 550EX (& 430EX, 540EZ) costs $70 and includes the Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord. You can replace the straight sync cable with the 6' Coiled Cable for $20, or it can be bought separately for $40. For each mod done, you can purchase one extra standard sync cable for $10 (normally $15).See: Why You Want this Aux Sync Jack Mod
(***) Metz 54 Mz-4i Aux Sync Jack
Here the Aux Sync Jack is added to the Metz 54 MZ-4i Flash unit. Although this is the SCA 3102 Canon module, all the modules can have the mod, which is $70, an includes the Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord. You can replace the straight sync cable with the 6' Coiled Cable for $20, or it can be bought separately for $40. For each mod done, you can purchase one extra standard sync cable for $10 (normally $15). Since the module can easily separate from the flash, only the module has to be sent in to have the mod done, although having the rest of the flash will allow full testing of the setup both before and after the mod is done.For a GREAT way to mount the PW (Pocket Wizard) to this and all flash units, see the PW Caddy ($16 each)
Flash Mods go to the top of the workpile, no delay!
Additional $10 for 550, 540, 430, 420 (extra fuss)
- I will add a sub-mini sync jack and provide a 16".straight...cable for each mod (custom lengths available)
- Replace straight cable with 6' coiled cable: add $20
- Shorten coiled cable to custom length: add $5
- Add'l cables: $15 (RA sub-mini to straight mini: up to 24")
...Cables 25" to 48" add $5,
...RA mini plug instead of straight mini plug add $5 - 1/4" inline jack instead of straight mini plug add $5
- Sub-mini plug instead of mini plug add $5 (MicroSync)
- Exta 6' coiled cable: $35 (includes safety clip)
- Safety clip on mini plug end (attaches to PW): add $5
- S/H USPS Priority Mail: $15 USA, $30 Global Priority or Express
- Optional USPS Insurance: $5
- S/H Discount of $5 for each additional unit in same order
Normally Just One Day For the Mod
(***) Why You Want This Flash Mod:
Off Camera Use When Mod is Done: Flash can be mounted on a stand, and triggered using the cable plugged into a Pocket Wizard, FreeXwire, or MicroSync receiver! (No extra adapters to keep track of or come loose) Without having this mod done, a hot shoe (F) to mini plug is needed as a connection adapter.
On Camera Use When Mod is Done: Allows mounting flash unit in the camera HOT SHOE, maintaining E-TTL functions, and still triggering your Pocket Wizard transmitter without using the camera pc jack (certain flash and camera combinations with exception).
Without this Mod: Without this modification, the Canon Off Camera Shoe Cord 2 or OC-E3, or the Nikon OCC, modified (by me) to include one of the following: 1)additional hot shoe, 2)miniphone plug, or 3)sync cable is needed along with a custom bracket to hold both the Pocket Wizard and the flash unit!
MANY SATISFIED CUSTOMERS!!!
..... COMMENTS / QUESTIONS WELCOME!!!
Notice: This modification works great, and should have been included by Canon, but naturally will void your 1 year Canon warranty, as only a Canon Factory Service Center is authorized to disassemble the flash unit (according to Canon) .
This mod has no effect on any of the E-TTL functions or the external power connector of the flash units, as only the trigger wires are accessed, and not any of the data cables.
The new 580 EX II has a PC sync jack, although it is disabled when the flash is in the hot shoe, so it cannot be used to fire a radio transmitter when still in the camera hot shoe! The sync jack is also disabled when the flash is in Manual-Master mode, but the re-wiring mod for the 580 EX II will restore full function to the PC jack.
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Aux Sync Jack Flash Mod - Foot Swap: This mod can be done on an OEM Replacement Foot for $40 in addition to the mod fee for the 430 EX and the 580 EX, and $50 additional for the 580 EX II. I normally only suggest using the OEM Replacement Foot Swap if you positively can't be without your flash unit for any time at all. While both the the 580 EX II, the 580 EX, and the 430 EX can be swapped in the field (easy to follow instructions included), the other models will require sending the unit in to me for the mod and swap. That means you can either pay the extra $40 (or $50) and get a spare foot assembly, or send your foot assembly in to me without the rest of the flash unit and I will do the mod on your foot assembly, and then return your modded foot assembly by the carrier and speed of your choice (S/H charges apply).
If you purchase a replacement foot assembly for $45, and your original foot assembly is in pristine condition (no foot plate scratches), you can send it in for evaluation, and a possible $30 refund or services credit. If it does not qualify for full credit, possibly the Foot Plate itself can be replaced for $20, which would the allow a $20 refund or services credit. Should your returned foot assembly not qualify for credit, return S/H is your responsibility. (The maximum credit for the 580 EX II would be $40. No replacement foot plates are currently available for the 580 EX II, only the entire foot assembly.)
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Important Notes: Prepaid Return Label
Sending a prepaid return label can save you the shipping fees, and allow you to use your own shipping method at your own discounts. It also saves me from having to fuss with generating a shipping label, as I can just put your label right over the old one, tape it up and drop it off, no stopping required. A $5 handling fee does apply, and is added to the total charges due if you pre-pay the shipping charges.
Why a handling fee you ask: The postage fees do pay for the transport via the USPS, but being a one-man operation, I still have to make a special trip to the Post Office to drop off the package itself to assure a timely delivery. The alternative is for me to wait additional days to send multiple packages at the same time, or call the USPS to arrange for pickups, which also tend to delay the shipping by at least a day. For larger boxes, it is not just leaving the package in the mailbox for the postman. If you have further questions or comments, just ask!
If you are sending a return label using the USPS (US Post Office), you must print out and pay for the label on your own computer as the USPS will only give you stamps and not a true prepaid label. You can log into USPS.com and pay for the shipping by credit card.
If you are using either FedEx or UPS, you can either hand write or computer generate a label and include your account number for billing back to you. Make sure the box you use will fit into a FedEx or UPS drop box.
If I have to write or generate a label for you, repackage the unit to fit in a drop box, or wait in line at the Post Office, I will have to charge the normal S/H fees, and this will delay the return of the unit back to you waiting for the additional funds.
Thanks for understanding!
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Aux Sync Jack Flash Mods - Complete Listing
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430 EX Aux Sync Jack Mod
430 EX Aux Sync Jack Mod on Replacement Foot Assembly
550 EX Aux Sync Jack Mod (same for 430EZ, 540EZ)
580 EX Aux Sync Jack Mod
580 EX Metal Foot Plate / Aux Sync Jack Mod
580 EX II Aux Sync Jack Mod
580 EX II Aux Sync Jack Mod on Replacement Foot Assembly
Aux Sync Jack Flash Mod - Foot Swap Notes: 580EX, 430EX
Canon EX Flash - Reliable Optical Trigger
Metz 54 MZ-4i Aux Sync Jack Mod
OlympusFS FL50 Aux Sync Jack Mod
Olympus FL-50 Extended Rotation Mod
Pre-Paid Return Label - Important Notes
Replacement Foot Plate for Canon Flash - 580EX, 550EX, 430EX
SB-600 (Nikon) Aux Sync Jack Mod
SB-800 (Nikon) Aux Sync Jack Mod / Extended Head Rotation Mod
ScrewLock PC Jack Added to Canon 580EX Flash
Sigma EF 500 DG Super Aux Sync Jack Mod (Canon, Nikon, Sony)
Sigma EF 500 DG Super Extended Head Rotation Mod
Sigma EF 500 DG Super Extra Vertical Detents Mod
Sigma EF 500 DG Super Mods - Sony Version
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