Ikelite DS230 Underwater Strobe with Modelling Light NiMH

Ikelite DS230 213Ws Underwater TTL Strobe with Modelling Light

Some underwater conditions demand maximum light output. The Ikelite DS230 delivers increased flash capacitance to cut through water and produce sharper, more vibrant, professional-quality wide-angle images. Whether used in a pool studio or open water, this strobe provides the high output required for serious underwater photography.

Product Details

Light Quality

Entry-level strobes often emit raw light from a straight flashtube, which maximises brightness but produces harsh edges and uneven lighting, often requiring diffusers or filters that reduce effective output.

The DS230 features a circular xenon flashtube and proprietary reflector that have been perfected over decades to provide a smooth beam pattern and warmer colour output. A 5000K colour temperature balances with ambient underwater light, enhancing natural skin tones and making reds and oranges appear more vibrant.

For broader coverage, an optional Dome Diffuser (#4069.2) is available, offering wider dispersion with only a half-stop loss in brightness.

Designed for hybrid still and video shooters, the DS230 includes a 2500 lumen COB LED light array. This wide-beam video light also functions as an aiming light and automatically turns off and on when a photo is taken. In video mode, it offers low, medium, and high settings, plus an SOS mode for emergency signalling.

Construction

The strobe is constructed from a corrosion-proof ABS-PC blend, which is over 237 grams lighter than comparable aluminium-bodied strobes.

Ergonomics

Exposure settings can be adjusted without taking eyes off the subject. The strobe features large, click-stop dial controls for intuitive tactile feedback, now enhanced for usability with thick gloves. A slide lock prevents accidental power-on during transport.

High Performance Power

The DS230 is powered by custom NiMH rechargeable cells, engineered for rapid recycle times and consistent performance from the first to the last shot. These industrial-grade cells outperform alkaline and lithium alternatives, especially under variable temperature and storage conditions. Many users report battery longevity exceeding 10–15 years.

The battery pack attaches via a unique toggle lock that eliminates the need for O-ring lubrication and prevents accidental flooding. The DS230 front is compatible with previous NiMH Battery Packs (#4066.5) as well as the DS230 Strobe Battery Pack (#40066BK).

A Strobe for Life

Ikelite pioneered many underwater lighting innovations, including modular TTL electronics, which allow the DS230 to adapt to new camera TTL protocols simply by changing the triggering device. This ensures long-term versatility and compatibility across systems.

Ikelite has the longest legacy in professional underwater strobe manufacturing and remains the only brand designing and building underwater strobes in the USA, with global distribution in over 95 countries.

In the Box

• DS230 Strobe Front #40230X
• Rechargeable NiMH Battery Pack #40066GY
• Battery Pack Cover #0591.4
• Smart Charger for NiMH with Australian Plug #0083.95 (other plug types available separately)
• 1" Ball Mount #4081.4 (installed)
• Waterproof bulkhead cap #9104.7
• Silicone lubricant (1cc tube)
• 2-year limited warranty