Minolta Auto 360 PX flash unit

The 360PX took over from it’s predecessor the 320X as the flagship of Minolta’s Auto Electroflash models. Virtually identical in appearance to the 320X it boasted a guide number of 36 in metres, had bounce and swivel capability, and used thyristor circuitry. The thyristor circuitry enabled flash use at up to 3.5 frames per second with the Motor Drive 1, albeit at very low power. In addition to the TTL flash capability, the 360PX retained the three “auto” settings of the 320X, for automatic flash operation. This makes it a very flexible unit, as it can be used on all Minolta cameras with success in the auto mode, as well as the X-700 and X-500/570 in the auto and TTL modes. The 360PX also retained the adjustable power setting in manual mode from full power down to 1/16th power. This makes the 360PX a very handy tool in the home studio, as its power can be adjusted based upon flashmeter readings or calculation to get whatever lighting ratio is desired. The 360PX came with a soft leatherette case, and a clip on wide angle adapter that took its standard coverage from 35mm to 28mm (at the cost of one stop of power).

The flash also has a connector for the Cable OC (Off-Camera), enabling the flash to retain its TTL capabilities while positioned off the hotshoe (eg, for side lighting).