New Gear: Metz Mecablitz 64 AF-1 Digital Flash

German manufacturer Metz has unveiled its newest flash unit, the previously rumored Mecablitz 64 AF-1 digital. It features not just an impressive guide number of 64, but also a 24-200mm zoom capability, as well as a USB port for firmware updates. Perhaps most interesting for most photographers is the touchscreen rear, which you can use to control the unit without fiddling over buttons.

The 64 AF-1 will also play nicely with most major camera systems, offering TTL flash and remote modes for Nikon, Canon, Sony, Pentax, and Olympus/Panasonic/Leica camera. It runs off of 4 AA batteries, or an external power pack. Here’s its full feature list:

• Secondary reflector with 2 light levels
• Vertical (–9/+90°) and horizontal (300°) swivel reflector
• Large illuminated, graphic touch display in colour, with automatic rotating function (90°)
• Simple operating concept
• Motorised zoom for 24–200 mm illumination
• Spot and extended zoom Integrated wide-angle diffuser for 12 mm illumination
• Flip-out reflector card
• Modelling light (permanent light for checking shadows)
• Integrated autofocus multi-zone flash metering
• Flash readiness indicator and correct exposure display on unit and on camera
• TFT flash range display
• Acoustic status notifications (beep)
• Automatic unit shut-off and manual key lock
• Wake-up function via the camera Integrated sync cable socket
• Power pack connection
• Rapid mode
• Programme memory (4 memory locations)
• Metal base with quick lock

Unfortunately, we don’t know exactly how much the 62 AF-1 is expected to fetch, but given that the 58 AF-2 goes for around $400, we imagine the 62 AF-1 will go for more than that.

[via PhotoRumors]