Parabolic light dimmers are some of the most versatile on the market. Coincidentally, they are also some of the most expensive ones out there. Love the versatility, hate the price, and very few photographers actually own them. Godox set out to create a truly affordable parabolic softbox. So how did they do it? Spoiler alert: much better than I expected.
Introduce
I’m no stranger to real parabolic modifiers. After using the Broncolor ones, I fell in love with them. It’s a pity that you can’t get a real parabolic modifier for a good price. Broncolor will cost you several thousand dollars. To actually use it, you’ll also have to invest in a proper flash system that’s compatible with it. Also, when I have the funds and ability to rent a Para, I always do. Until recently, I didn’t even think about having a Para, until Godox released their Parabolic Light Focus system.
Build quality
You may have noticed that I enjoy working with high-end devices like the Profoto and Broncolor. That way, I was spoiled by the best on the market. So you would expect Godox to lag behind in quality? Well, according to that, the modifier is really well done. The slats feel solid, the fabric is thick, and the overall construction is solid. Honestly, when I was shooting, softboxes flew all over the set. That also applies to Para. I may have thrown it a few times (I have). I can’t really say anything bad about the Para build. It is very easy to build. Just make sure you don’t forget the two metal rods that you need to build the softbox. The stick locking mechanism has a nice action, although as with all Paras the add-on can be extremely heavy on one side. It might be a good idea to use a research stand, such as a baby stand. It’s also probably better to use it with a pack and headlight system, as opposed to a block. However, even if you put something heavy like Profoto B1X and using enough weight on the rack, it holds up well, even on a boom. Just don’t forget to use a stand that can be too heavy. It is better to care for too much than to care for too little. One rule that I use is: “if I can stand under it and not be shaken, that’s safe.” A swing test is also not a bad idea. But again, I can’t say anything bad about the build quality. It’s been through equally tough commercial and experimental footage, and it’s survived. 
Features and light quality
There are a few notable features that set Godox’s Parabolic modifiers apart. The main one is the ability to focus light by moving it forward and backward. If you own a flat front illuminator, the light will still work more or less the same, but it is recommended that you use a light with an exposed flash tube.
Unfortunately I don’t own any of those, so I use mine with the flat front and it works fine. I can somewhat see the difference, but it’s nothing too big, so I’m not worried. I know I will be divided in the comments by anyone who has seen Karl Taylor’s video. For the record: yes, parabolic dimmers are best used with lights with exposed parts rather than recessed flash tubes.
For evaluation purposes, I tested them with the ProHead, which has an exposed flash tube and adheres to all rules for using a true parabolic dimmer.
As you can see, the Parabolic works as expected, with the light becoming more focused as I move the bar in and becoming more spread out as I move the bar out. Unfortunately, in the outermost position, I didn’t see Para’s signature ringflash effect, which was a disappointment for me. Both Para 128 and 88 work very well, which means they are real parabolic modifiers.
Besides your Para, you can also pair it with accessories like meshes and diffusers. The mesh will reduce the light propagation, while the diffuser will dim the light morphology. Remember that they will not make the light any softer.
Grid
The grid is mounted fairly easily on each bar. However, I really have a problem with it. It just took too long to put each of the several dozen sticks in the little holes. What would work much better is a mesh that just stretches to fit the modifier or continues to use Velcro. That will make the process a lot faster and more seamless.
Another problem with using grids is that they will create a grid-like pattern on the object. It is recommended to use the mesh in a smaller position or with a diffuser.
Diffuser
The diffuser comes in two thickness variations: D1 and D2. D1 is a 0.5 stop diffuser, while D2 will have an effect of about 1 point. The problem with mounting the diffuser is that it is very difficult, it is almost impossible to find a hole to put the rod in. They could take a page from Briese’s book and use a little plastic or metal ring on the diffuser for ease of mounting. 
Cans
The box is very gorgeous. It has everything a carrying case needs: wheels, handles, straps, and a divider. Godox really did a good job with it, and I’ll be honest: I used the case to transport things other than the Para. I would even recommend buying the case itself, to be honest. 
Using
Here are some images I took using Para 88 and Para 128. I think it’s a great modifier. 
Summary
What I like
- Build quality on par with Broncolor
- Vessels with bags
What can be improved
- Reflectivity of the inner material
- Mount the diffuser
All in all, Godox has created something they’re not commonly known for in the professional world: a high-end modifier that, to me, renders Broncolor superfluous. I look forward to seeing major rental homes adding these to their offerings. Given that they cost about $5,000 less than the competition, this is also very reasonable to buy. Parabolic modifiers come in four sizes: 68, 88, 128 and 158. I tested 88 and 128 and found that 88 is a great key lightwhile 128 works fine as a fill. The only negative comment I have is that the inner material is more reflective to make it more characteristic and give a more distinctive light. As it stands, reflective material is too diffused, at least for me. For everything else, however, the Godox Parabolic light focusing system wins me over the Broncolor. Well done, Godox!
