Sony HVL-F43AM is a new mid-range flash gun for the Sony Alpha line of cameras. The new flash is a significant step forward from the previous HVL-F42AM model that has been around for quite a while. HVL-F43AM has adopted some very important features from HVL-F58AM (the Sony's flagship hot shoe flash), such as wireless control and Quick Shift Bounce features.

The following is the list of advantages Sony HVL-F43AM has over Sony HVL-F42AM:

• Slightly more power: Guide Number of 43 vs. 42.
• Quick Shift Bounce system instead of the traditional swivel-and-tilt head. The unique Sony's approach to bouncing makes it easier to use a flash diffuser that can only be mounted on a wide side of the flash head.
• Wireless master mode that allows to control up to three remote flash groups, whereas HVL-F42AM can only be a slave unit. (The list of compatible camera bodies includes DSLR-A900, DSLR-A850 & DSLR-A700.)
• Improved controls, display, and overall ergonomics.
• Better recycling time: approx. 2.9 vs. 3.7 seconds (with alkaline batteries).
• More flash cycles: approx. 200 with 180 (with alkaline batteries).
• Extended range of power settings in manual mode: down to 1/128th of the full power vs. 1/32th (2 additional f-stops).
• 1/3 of an f-stop increment in manual mode instead of 1 f-stop increment (the total of 22 power levels instead of 6).
• Modeling light.
• Wider frame coverage with the built-in wide panel: 15mm vs. 16mm.

As you can see, Sony HVL-F43AM features quite a few improvements and can be a worthy upgrade for many photographers.

Below, you can find images of the new Sony HVL-F43AM flash and the excerpt of the Sony's official press release related to this flash.