I'm gonna need a few colored filters. I can buy them from Alien Bees, but then I have to wait for shipping. In the mean time, I'm thinking about just making some I can clamp to the reflector. Can anyone suggest what material or make-shift materials I can use in the interim? These are strobes, not hot lights.

If you plan on using gels, I strongly recommend getting the UMF Universal Modifier and the 6-pack of gel holders; it will make applying and changing gels much easier, and also provides an attachment point for barndoors if you ever need them. You still need to be mindful of heat buildup even with modeling lights when using gels; I've melted holes in standard lighting gels with a 150W bulb that was long enough to make contact with the gel in the holder. Putting a gel on the light restricts airflow and causes heat buildup. The UMF reflector is ventilated to account for this, the standard reflector is not. Attaching gels to the standard reflector is something I wouldn't advise.

True enough. Before I do any improvising, I'll have to test for heat etc.

Jon

I'm goign to go ahead and buy some filters, but what do you recommned. I see the ABs have a universal mount that also mounts the snoot. What do you recommend? I think I need at least one honeycomb grid too. I was thinking about teh 18 degree.