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Actually, I've decided on the Brand; just looking for advice on Which one to get first.
My neighbor has thousands of dollars tied up in Alien Bee lighting.  She has graciously let me use the entire system.  I'm trying to decide which ONE to buy first. 
I think I have settled on the AB800 with the smaller octagon-shaped soft box.  The AB1600 is a WOW, but don't think that I will EVER need that much power.  I very seldom photograph people but might get more ambitious with some soft lighting?

I can't afford to go crazy with dedicated speed lights.  I plan to use the 800 with my existing speed lights.  Part of my confusion comes from using both Canon and Nikon cameras. I have the SB600 for the Nikon and an old Vivitar 283 that I trigger with a peanut slave.  I don't have a dedicated flash for the Canon (T2i)  --- yet. 

I'm figuring my total expense at less than $500.  Can I get an Amen -- or would you suggest a better use for $500?

Thanks,

I've got nothing but junk - and really DANGEROUS junk off ebay that could start a fire.  I've also bought Camerons from my guy at the local store.  Outgrew them right away.  I bought AB's about 4 years ago and have not needed an upgrade, have had no mechanical problems.  One of the best purchases I've made.  You may not need the 1600's, but I bet you will wish you had them the few times you need more power.

Thanks for all the input.  Having had my hands on the Alien Bees, I've pretty much determined to go with them.  I really would like the extra power of the AB1600 and the larger Octagon-shaped soft box.  It would be especially good for blowing out the background and for lighting larger scenes. 
Maybe I will wait until the money is there for that setup.  I could probably get more for less on eBay ... but...
I've heard a lot of good about Paul Buff's service and support.  My neighbor raves about it too.  You get what you pay for?

I'm getting too old to wait.  I can't really afford to go with the 1600 ... yet.  The Finance Minister (my wife) has already approved the budget for the 800 -- for Christmas.

I'm currently using my neighbor's AB800 as my main light and filling in with an AB400.  If I buy th AB800, maybe I will get the 1600 later -- instead of the AB400???

I'm so indecisive.   

Where are you located I have a few extra bee's I might be willing to sell at a good price.  Send me a sitemail if you want.

I'm in VA but I have a couple extra lights maybe 1 or 2 of the AB400s and AB800s.  If you do get new stuff they give a discount for accessories when you buy the lights, I think 5% off for every light you get.  The lights I'd be getting rid of I got used and the fans make a loud noise when warming up but calm down after a minute or so, they would be cheaper but who knows how long the bulbs or fan has left they look like a little older models.

usually what watts of light one should starts from?

anyone got a recommend of set up?

someone suggested me get one good light to start with..and add up others..

usually a light, a softbox/umbrella and the stand is a set right?