Isotta RED64 Underwater Strobe

Isotta RED64 Strobe

The Ferrari of the Sea

The Isotta RED64 underwater strobe represents a professional-grade solution in the field of underwater lighting. It stands out not only for its solid construction and waterproof integrity but also for its precise control and adaptability across a range of underwater photographic conditions. 

Unlike basic underwater strobes that offer limited functionality, the RED64 Strobe from Isotta combines a powerful 230-watt flash with high-speed synchronization (HSS) for Sony, Canon, and Nikon cameras, a rare feature that significantly enhances its utility across photography genres. Its maximum guide number of 22 underwater at ISO100 makes it ideal for illuminating wide-angle compositions and large scenes, while its precise 10-step manual flash output control provides subtlety and artistic control where needed.

The strobe's light temperature of 5300K mirrors daylight conditions, helping to restore the natural colors that are often lost as you descend into deeper water. Combined with a circular flash tube and a highly efficient metal parabola reflector, the RED64 delivers a broad and even light spread—critical for maintaining accurate color balance and avoiding unwanted shadows.

In addition to lighting performance, Isotta has prioritized field durability and user convenience. The bright red anodized aluminum body is a clear indicator of the strobe’s ruggedness, offering protection against saltwater corrosion and physical wear. The design includes double O-ring seals on all buttons and removable parts, ensuring watertight reliability even in the most demanding environments. It is rated for use at depths up to 100 meters, aligning with the expectations of seasoned divers using Isotta underwater housings or other professional-grade camera systems.

Power efficiency is another standout feature of the RED64. It runs on eight AA NiMH rechargeable batteries—widely available and easily swappable by the user. At full power, the flash takes only 3.5 seconds to recharge and be ready to fire again at maximum output. However, it can still emit a flash with the energy available at that moment, delivering an output proportional to the time elapsed since the previous shot. With a capacity for up to 300 full-power flashes per charge and an instant recharge function at half power, users can shoot for extended periods without interruption. The battery compartment is isolated from the electronics, and impressively, the strobe is fully waterproof even when the battery compartment is open—adding a layer of reassurance during battery swaps between dives.

Photographers who demand responsive performance will appreciate the strobe’s ability to keep up with fast-paced shooting. It supports burst photography at up to 6 frames per second (fps) at guide number 8—essential for capturing swift marine life and fast-moving underwater action. The LED status indicator communicates battery status, mode, and flash readiness, offering an intuitive interface that can be monitored easily during dives, even in low-visibility conditions.

Moreover, the RED64 features dual triggering options: a fiber optic port and an S6 electronic sync connection. This flexibility ensures seamless integration into a variety of camera and housing setups, whether users are upgrading from another system or building a customized Isotta underwater rig from the ground up.

Focusing in dim or turbid water is often a challenge, but the RED64 addresses this with an integrated focus light that can emit either white or red light at full or half power. This feature helps to maintain sharpness during composition and prevents focus hunting—a key concern in underwater macro or portrait photography.

At just 230 grams in water, the strobe maintains neutral buoyancy, making it highly maneuverable and reducing user fatigue during longer dives. Its ergonomic 25 mm coupling ball ensures stable mounting and easy articulation when paired with Isotta housing arms or other standard strobe arm systems.

Key Features:

• Utilizes Xenon Toroidal Lamp which provides powerful output and even light dispersion
• Wide Beam Angle of 130°
• Color Temperature: 5300K
• Power 230 Watt
• Recycle Time: 3.5s at full power
• Guide Number 22 underwater / ISO 100
• Manual Power Adjustment Non i-TTL / 10 Steps
• Red and White Pilot Light
• Shielded electronics and upgradeable software
• Double o-ring seal system
• Multi-color LED indicator for battery status and activity
• Uses 8 AA batteries for long utilization and minimizes battery replacement
• Neutral weight underwater

Connectivity:

• Fiber Optic Cable
• Electronic Sync Cable

Related Underwater Gear Categories:

• Isotta Housings and Strobe
• Underwater Strobes & Flashes
• Underwater Video Lights