The new Metz 58 AF-1 flash unit is, at the moment, one of a kind. Not only is the flash  wireless, but it is the first flash unit to feature a USB socket. This means you can simply hook it up to your computer and install updates posted online. Making sure your flash unit has the latest software has never been easier.

According to Metz, "the 58 AF-1 will be available in two models - the 58 AF-1 C for Canon and the 58 AF-1 N for Nikon. The 58 AF-1 C is designed to support Canon's E-TTL and E-TTL II technology and the 58 AF-1 N supports Nikon's i-TTL and D-TTL technology." The flash offers a maximum guide number of 190 feet at ISO 100/21 and focal length of 105mm. It also has a fold-away reflector card, wide-angle diffuser, LCD display, and multi-zone AF metering.

Official Press Release

Metz Connects with Tomorrow's Technology Introducing the World's First USB Upgradeable Wireless Flash

Metz Mecablitz 58 AF-1 digital sets a new standard in the photo industry.

New York, NY (November 2, 2006) - Metz, a world leading manufacturer of high-performance flash technology, will be making some noise at this year's PhotoPlus Expo with the introduction of its Mecablitz 58 AF-1 - the world's first USB upgradeable wireless flash.

One of the most state-of-the-art compact flash units available today, the 58 AF-1 digital gives photographers the ability to effortlessly make software updates via the Internet. Previously, flash units needed to be packaged and sent away for servicing in order to be updated with the latest software from camera manufacturers. With the new Metz USB interface, shooters can now make such updates from their own PCs, ensuring that they will have the most up to date and highest performing flash for each shot and that they will never have to be without a flash.

With wireless infrared, photographers will be able to utilize the 58 AF-1's full range of functions, including Canon's E-TTL and Nikon's i-TTL remote systems. As a commander or a slave unit, the 58 AF-1 is a fully functional and dedicated digital flash. The 58 AF-1 will be available in two models - the 58 AF-1 C for Canon and the 58 AF-1 N for Nikon. The 58 AF-1 C is designed to support Canon's E-TTL and E-TTL II technology and the 58 AF-1 N supports Nikon's i-TTL and D-TTL technology.

The 58 AF-1 digital also packs quite a punch, offering photographers a max guide number of 190 feet at ISO 100/21° and a focal length of 105mm. With an array of intuitive features, including an integrated fold-away reflector card for the vertical and horizontal swivel-and-tilt reflector, a built in wide-angle diffuser for illuminating focal lengths of 18mm, a large, easy-to-read LCD and the newest generation multi-zone AF metering technology, the 58 AF-1 is the ideal solution for any lighting scenario.

Metz flash products are distributed in the US exclusively by Bogen Imaging