External Flash or Macro Ring Lite

[hybridgenius]

I'm having a hard time deciding what I want to purchase next. So far I only have a rebel xti with stock lens and an ef 100mm f/2.8 macro lens. I've heard the ring lite is suppose to do the macro lens alot of justice, but an external flash is also good for all around purposes. Its just the macro ring lite is about 450 and the external flash ranging at 350. Which one would be a better purchase? I'm looking to do more MACRO shots, but is it worth it over the external flash?

[JeffReef]

Can you elaborate on the kind of macro photography that you intend to do?

Generally, you'd want to get the 580EX first since it's almost a necessity for indoors and low light situations. Besides, you can also use the 580EX for macro.

I looked into buying a ring flash some 3 years ago but decided it's not worth it. I was going to use it for entomology and for shooting fishing flies.

[hybridgenius]

Thats what I was thinking. Just wanted to hear others experiences. I'm leaning towards the external flash right now. The 580EX sounds good too. MUCH better than a stock flash riiiiiight? lol

[JeffReef]

There is no comparison between the 580EX and the built-in flash.

Either the 430EX or the 580EX would be a good choice.

[beerguy]

I've got the MR14-EX and it's great. If you're going to try and use the 580 (or 430 for that matter) make sure that you get an off camera cable for it; it's really cumbersome to try and use a camera mounted flash for real macro work.