Hi--

>Bob, I see alot of your posts, and it is eveident you are one of the Nikon
>Experts. Thus, I seek your advise if you are willing to give it.
>
>As an Amatuer, and returning to Photography after a 13 year haitus, I
>recently invested in the N6006, N90s, and SB26. In the spirtit of "backup
>everything", can you recommend an third party flash that will do most
>of the same as the SB26? Ie the important functions to me are the
>Autozoom head, monitor preflashes, makes good use of "D" lenses. Slave is
>not important, as I would be using the SB26 as the slave. Or, am I just
>asking for trouble with a third party?

Not trouble, but few flashes (none, actually!) equal the SB-24/5/6 Nikon.

>Also, i use the Sigma lenses untill I can afford Nikkor glass. Some posts
>wonder if the "d" really works on non Nikkor glass. What's your feeling?

I am not fond of AF or AE, let alone "D", so you are asking the wrong
one. My advice would probably have been to stick with 6006/8008 bodies
and a basic selection of used Nikkors (better quality, better resale value),
and one SB-24/5/6 flash (some of the features you mention I consider
"fripperies", or nuisances - they get in the way of simple, reliable,
direct operation.....).

>Thanks in advance Bob. no need to rush a response as I can see you are
>very busy on this net.
>Don Copeland

You're welcome!
David Ruether