The AOI UCS‑Q1RC is an ultra-compact underwater strobe designed specifically for OM‑System and Olympus cameras. It is ideal for compact setups (e.g. with OM‑System Tough models) and as a lightweight secondary strobe.
The UCS-Q1RCis characterised by its compact dimensions, small pack size and extremely good value for money. With a guide number of 22 and an 85° beam angle, the UCS‑Q1RC provides powerful light for macro photography. The flash has six manual power levels (1/64, 1/24, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 1), allowing you to finely adjust the lighting to suit the subject, distance and ambient light. The recycle time at full power is only about 0.85 seconds, which is fast enough for continuous shooting and dynamic scenes.
A key advantage is the Olympus/OM System RC TTL mode: The UCS-Q1RC communicates directly with compatible cameras and automatically adjusts the flash output so that you get well-exposed shots without having to constantly correct the settings manually. The integrated i-Macro mode optimises the flash characteristics specifically for macro subjects, ensuring that nudibranchs, seahorses and small corals are reproduced with exceptional sharpness and colour fidelity.
The flash also has a pilot light to assist autofocus and live view operation, but does not have an integrated video light. For video applications, an external LED light must therefore be used, while the UCS-Q1RC can be used as a compact, powerful flash for photography. It is powered by 2× 18650 rechargeable batteries and, according to the manufacturer, can be used at depths of up to around 850 metres, weighing only approx. 550 g on land and offering approx. 90 g of positive buoyancy in water.
The AOI UCS-Q1RC is therefore an excellent choice for anyone looking for a compact, lightweight and RC-TTL-compatible flash system for Olympus or OM system cameras – whether for travel setups, compact wide-angle or macro work.
