Retra has announced its most powerful strobe to date, the Retra Maxi, boasting a guide number (GN) of 46. In addition, like the “hybrid” lighting solutions before it—such as the Ikelite DS232 and the Backscatter Hybrid Flash—the new strobe is optionally available with a built-in video light, in this case rated at 6,000 lumens.
The Retra Maxi delivers its full power flash output at a color temperature of about 5800K, and with the optional wide angle diffuser, it gives you 160º coverage at a color temperature of around 4500K. Meanwhile, the built-in video light provides 110º coverage and has a color temperature of 5000K. The LED array offers a color rendering index (CRI) of 80. (Sunlight has a CRI of 100.)
The Retra Maxi is powered by a pair of 21700 6000mAh batteries (NL2160HP), which Retra says gives you at least 550 flashes at full power as well as up to an hour of full-power video light. Retra says burst shooting of up to 50fps is possible (presumably when the strobe is set at its lowest output), while recycle time after a full-power flash is under two seconds. TTL and HSS (high-speed sync) modes are also on offer.
The Retra Maxi features an LED-illuminated back panel (handy for night dives), a pressure relief valve, and built-in leakage detection. Like the other models in the Retra strobe range, you can use the accompanying Retra UWT app to access advanced settings, install firmware updates, read instruction manuals, etc.
Shipping in early 2025 from retailers such as Backscatter, the Retra Maxi, is available until December 4th at a special introductory price of $800 strobe only or $880 with video light. (The strobe-only price increases to $1,000 thereafter.) Batteries and charger are extras.
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PRODUCT INFORMATION
Retra Maxi Underwater Strobe
With a Guide Number 46 and an optional built-in 6000 lumen ultra-wide video light, the Retra Maxi is the most powerful underwater strobe and video light combination ever made!
Pre-Order before 4th December to Secure the Special Offer!
Shipping expected in early 2025. Exact dates will be published by the end of December 2024.
The Most Powerful Strobe and Video Light Combination Ever Made
The Retra Maxi delivers GN46 and a color temperature of ~5800K. With the optional Wide Angle diffuser, it provides 160º coverage at ~4500K. Optimized for GN performance, this powerful strobe captures distant subjects with exceptional light output.
In addition to the strobe, the Retra Maxi also features a 6000 lumen video light with a native color temperature of 5000K and a CRI80, providing ultra-wide 110º coverage. Whether you’re shooting stills or video, this strobe and video light combination ensures you have everything you need to capture stunning images in any underwater environment.
Power and Speed Unleashed: The Retra Maxi’s Ultimate Performance
The Retra Maxi is powered by two off-the-shelf 21700 6000mAh batteries (NL2160HP), providing more than 550 full-power shots and up to 1 hour of full-power video light output.
With a recycle time of less than 2 seconds for a full-power dump and a burst shooting speed of up to 50 frames per second, the Retra Maxi offers exceptional performance at both full and low power settings.
Night Dive Ready: LED-Illuminated Back Panel for Easy Adjustments
The Retra Maxi features LED illumination on the back panel, providing excellent visibility during night dives. This ensures you can easily read settings, even in low light conditions. The ergonomic dials, with varying lengths and satisfying clicks at each setting, make it intuitive to adjust modes and power levels.
Efficiently Crafted: The Retra Maxi’s Refined Housing
The Retra Maxi features a refined, three-part design with an aluminum bayonet and body, and a durable plastic back panel for enhanced durability and performance. Weighing 1150g on land (with batteries and mounting ball), the strobe is neutral or slightly buoyant (+/– 20g) underwater, offering better control.
Combining Retra’s signature design with high performance, the Retra Maxi is user-friendly, making it perfect for both beginners and pros.
Seamless Compatibility: The Retra Maxi’s Bayonet Mount
This mount remains consistent across all Retra Flash models, including the new Retra Maxi, allowing you to switch photography styles quickly.
The locking mechanism ensures accessories are securely attached, and it is fully compatible with all existing Retra Flash front-mounted accessories, including diffusers, reduction rings, and more.
Leakage Detection & Prevention
The Retra Maxi is equipped with a pressure relief valve and built-in leakage detection, which alerts you if water enters the battery compartment. You can rest easy knowing the battery compartment is sealed from the rest of the electronics for added protection.
Key features include:
- Built-in leakage detection
- Double O-ring protection
- Waterproof battery compartment
- Circuit protection
Smartphone Connectivity
The Retra Maxi can connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth using the Retra UWT App. The app allows you to:
- Install firmware updates
- Select custom user modes
- View basic information (number of flashes, current version, serial number, etc.)
- Access instruction manuals
You can download the Retra UWT app for free on Google Play and the App store.
