Canon 580ex Flash Price

Canon 580 EX II is it?

I purchased the flash 580exII few weeks ago to use with my XTi. I thought about buying the 430EX, but with the fall of the prices would have only saved $ 60 so I went with the 580exII and now I will have regrets. I can not do function properly. Recycling time is close to 1 minute between puffs is this normal? And only the batteries because there is something else, that you okay? My Pictures are worse with the shoe 580EX II Eith my cheap unbranded hot. I've been through the manual and adjust to my taste, but I have problems. Everything seems to be underexposed. Any help would be great.

This may sound silly, but look to see if the farms are in the right direction. Also, try a another set of batteries.