Oskar - Retra UWT

By the way, we have 4 units of the previous-generation Pro Max strobes left. Please write to our email if you’re interested.

Thank you for the suggestion. The firmware is designed to keep the strobes on continuously for off-camera use, where you might leave them in place while debris settles and return later to take the shot. In that case, you wouldn’t want to touch them until the image is done which could take hours or more. That said, I understand they can be left on unintentionally during normal use. We’ll look into possible improvements.

On this image it seems the hot shoe contact patches on the camera have white dots on them which indicates corrosive action on the contact patches. If this is the case I would use a fibreglass brush or a wooden chopstick/toothpick to try and remove these stains and then use a clean microfibre cloth to wipe them. ideally with a drop of isopropyl alcohol.

Hi Michael, it sounds like your camera and UW Technics converter are emitting a TTL signal (multiple pulses, including pre-flash and main flash) while the strobe is expecting a single pulse that is required for manual power settings. Effectively the strobe is now flashing multiple times which reduces it's light output and increases the power consumption. This is a very common problem that even the most experienced photographers get caught on (don't ask me how I know). The UW Technics converter can usually be set to position 0 on the small rotary dial on the board, and it should emit only single pulses. Once set check that you are getting strong light on the image at 100% strobe power. This is the best solution if you mainly use the strobe in manual mode. For information on how to successfully control and switch between TTL mode and single pulse mode in your camera menu it will be necessary to get the user manual for your UW Technics converter and check how it works combination with your specific camera.

@Chris Ross the weight measurement by @Hiloboy is correct as he measured both strobes without mounting ball and without batteries. We specify the weight on our website as: (2) Weight on land with 1" (inch) mounting ball and 4x AA Eneloop PRO Batteries / 8x AA Eneloop PRO Batteries respectively

Shipments of the Pro Max II began on June 30th, as announced at launch, and we expect most of the remaining orders to be dispatched this week. If you're considering purchasing the new Pro Max II, please note that the current special pre-order price will increase in one week.

We recommend the PRO version (black color) due to its improved performance compared to the regular version (typically white). For best results, we suggest keeping a dedicated set of these batteries only for your Retra strobes.

Hi everyone, Just to share our perspective: We always aim to respond promptly and provide clear, step-by-step support when technical issues are reported. In non-critical cases, our goal is to solve the issue remotely so the user can continue using the strobe without interruption. If the problem persists or further inspection is needed, we invite the user to send the unit in for a full check. In this case, we identified a likely cause, suggested a workaround that keeps the strobe functioning normally, and offered the option of inspection. Unfortunately we haven't heard back from the customer since. The Pro Max series is the most reliable we have ever built, now in its fifth generation, thanks to continuous improvements based on real-world feedback. We remain committed to supporting all our users and improving wherever we can. Thanks to everyone for your support so far, it really means a lot to us.

Yes, I can confirm that the Bumpers and Neoprene Jackets for the Pro Max I are the same size and fully compatible with the Pro Max II. No changes were made to the external dimensions.

Hi Everyone, Thanks so much for your interest in the Retra Flash Pro Max II strobe! Our current pre-order offer includes the Pro Max II strobe, the Booster, and dual USB battery chargers. The strobe comes with a 3-year standard warranty, and with our limited-time pre-order offer, you can extend that to 5 years of full manufacturer coverage. As for upgrading from the previous-generation Pro Max, we completely understand the interest. However, it’s neither practical nor cost-effective. To support the increased power, we introduced more power levels and a redesigned mode dial with expanded functionality. Achieving this required a redesign of the electronics, lamp, reflector, mode dial, etc. Upgrading an existing unit would involve fully disassembling and rebuilding it with entirely new components, which is ultimately more complex and costly than producing a new strobe from the ground up. For those upgrading to the Pro Max II, the most cost-effective route is to sell your current strobe. Thanks to active communities like this one and platforms like eBay, it's easy to reach interested buyers. This also helps newcomers enter the hobby, often saving 20–40% on a lightly used strobe, backed by a warranty and verified usage via our built-in trigger counter. What truly sets Retra apart is the long-term value and factory-backed support. Our transferable warranty means even a used strobe still comes with full manufacturer service, something no other underwater strobe brand offers. With the option to extend coverage up to 5 years, you can confidently sell a used unit knowing the next owner will be fully supported. If you have more questions, feel free to post here, I’m happy to help.

Thank you for sharing the news!

That's a great shot and I wouldn't have believed it was done with TTL! The shark is perfectly exposed.

My question to IATA: I’d like to request clarification on the IATA regulations for personal-use devices powered by Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries, specifically when traveling on passenger aircraft. I am wondering if there are any restrictions or limitations on carrying a photographic strobe, which operates on NiMH batteries installed in the device, in my carry-on baggage? Official answer from IATA: Dear Oskar, NiMH batteries are not restricted in air transport. See below linked document for further information. Nickel-Metal Hydride Batteries That said, I would still advise you to contact the air carrier you wish to use and ask them if they allow it. This is because different airlines have different rules when it comes to batteries being carried in the passenger cabin. There’s no official restriction on NiMh, but as we know, it often depends on who’s checking your bag at the airport. In my experience, batteries installed in the device tend to draw less attention, but you never really know.

In general, the battery contacts and compartment have gotten slightly improved with each generation. On the 4th generation Pro Max strobes, we rarely see issues unless the compartment gets seriously flooded, which is very uncommon. For cleaning the contacts, I recommend using wooden chopsticks or any small wooden tool. Wood is soft enough not to damage the contacts but still effective at cleaning, and it's usually easy to find anywhere. Many photographers also use a fiberglass pen.

I don’t recommend placing anything between the battery contacts. The tolerances are quite tight, and even something slightly too thick could cause permanent damage. Finding spare AA batteries on location is usually doable, but replacing damaged contact boards is a whole different story. I understand you might be careful and avoid over-tightening but someone else handling the gear might not.