Ikelite Ecko Fiber Strobe, Arm, and Fiber Optic Cord Bundle
Streamlined gear matters when you’re flying halfway around the world for a few precious dives. From our experience setting up and supporting traveling shooters, the real goal is simple: one strobe that can confidently handle macro, wide angle, and fast-moving subjects with minimal maintenance and zero drama on the boat. The Ikelite RC165 was built for exactly that use case, combining a high-energy flash with integrated fiber optic TTL in a compact, durable design that fits naturally into modern ikelite strobes workflows.
TTL isn’t new at Ikelite—they have been supporting digital TTL underwater for over two decades—and that maturity shows in how the RC165 behaves in real shooting conditions. With compatible camera systems, the strobe communicates optically with the camera to automatically adjust flash output, whether you’re fine-tuning exposure on a nudibranch or tracking a turtle that won’t slow down for you. You can still shoot in full Manual exposure on the camera while letting TTL handle flash intensity, which is often the most efficient approach underwater where lighting ratios change constantly.
What sets the RC165 apart in daily use is how much it eliminates workarounds. Perfectly diffused, daylight-balanced light comes straight from the strobe—no mandatory diffusers to lose or crack—and the ultra-wide beam comfortably covers everything from macro to wide angle with single or dual strobes. Add in near-instant recycle times at lower TTL power levels, travel-safe NiMH batteries, and a sealed, no-lube cam-lock battery system, and you get a strobe that feels purpose-built for photographers who want reliability first. Whether you’re pairing it with a compact rig or a full Ikelite underwater housing system, the RC165 is designed to stay out of your way and let you focus on getting the shot.
- Best for: Photographers wanting optical TTL with ikelite strobes and a clean, cable-free strobe connection.
- Not for: Shooters expecting electrical bulkhead sync or guaranteed TTL on every camera/housing combo.
- Includes strobe, arm, and fiber optic cord to reduce piecemeal setup.
- TTL performance depends on camera, housing trigger, and fiber alignment.
- Mirrorless shooters transitioning to optical TTL.
- Travel kits where simplicity and reliability matter.
- Photographers tired of bulkhead maintenance.
- Single-strobe macro or compact wide-angle setups.
- Reduced failure points versus electrical sync.
- TTL automation simplifies exposure.
- Bundle format saves setup time.
- Optical TTL is system-dependent.
- Less flexible than electrical sync for some pro workflows.
Content reviewed by Bluewater Photo staff for real-world use and compatibility.
Free shipping over $200 · Lifetime Support included
If you want dependable lighting without overbuilding your rig, this bundle gets you shooting sooner and with fewer surprises.
Learn More — Guides & Articles
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- Best underwater strobes 2025 — guide to the best strobes available in 2025
- Best Video Lights 2025 — our favorite continuous lights.
FAQ
Will this strobe work with my housing?
Possibly. Optical TTL depends on your housing’s trigger—please verify compatibility before ordering.
Does the bundle support electrical sync?
No. This bundle is built around optical triggering, not electrical bulkheads.
Is TTL guaranteed with every camera?
No. TTL behavior varies by camera and trigger combination.
Can I add a second strobe later?
Yes, but you may need additional arms and fiber optics.
Is this suitable for video?
It’s primarily designed for stills; continuous video lighting would require a different solution.
