7/18/11
This flash is no longer available new, which is too bad, because it’s feature-rich with plenty of custom functions, and of course works perfectly with Sony cameras. It has a fast full power recycle time of about 3 seconds, and at half power is almost instant! They’re commonly available on eBay, and if you can get a good copy for less than $150 it’s a steal. They also work well with Radiopoppers™ although you have to go through a power-up procedure before using.
The HVL-F42AM was the first Sony designed alpha flash unit, the other two (HVL-F36AM and HVL-F56AM) were rebadged Minolta’s.