Sid Barras asks concerning a possible enlarger purchase:
>
> I need it to be sturdy enough to get those very large prints I've been
> talking about. I am using a condenser version now, should I consider a
> dichro or variable contrast head? (I'm almost certain I won't be doing
> any color work, now or in the future)
Don't get a color head. Either get something that will easily take
contrast filters, or get a VC constant exposure head.
You can control contrast by using the M and Y on a color head, but it
screws with exposure and makes life miserable.
People may tell you a color head is ok for b+w. Don't believe the hype,
unless it also has a filter drawer and you plan to do some color.
Want to buy my Saunders D6700? ;)
> Cost is a consideration, but since this machine will (fingers crossed
> here) be a business investment, I want something reliable, robust, and
> able to do big prints, from 35mm and med. format negs. Maybe a large
> format camera is in my future?
Well, I'm in a similar boat, looking at something to replace my
Saunders. It won't be another Saunders, and I can't afford a VCCE 4x5
(>$2k new) right now.
I want a VCCE head. A good filter drawer would be ok, but with the color
head I've gotten used to making very small changes in contrast. You'd
save some money by going the drawer route.
The options for me are the Durst M670, Kaiser VPM 9005, Saunders
670VCCE, and
Beseler 23cIII.
I ain't buying another Saunders. I don't think the Beseler is constant
exposure ( I may be wrong, but their literature doesn't say so).
I think the Kaiser or Durst may be my solution...the Durst is about $300
cheaper, but the Kaiser can print up to 6x9, and may be more expandable.
I may have to drive up to B+H.
By the way, I don't think any enlarger will do 24x30 without having to
project on a wall...I think 16x20 is the limit for a MF enlarger. You'll
need to project on the floor or wall. Better enlargers can rotate the
head for wall projection.
Of course, you could buy a used 4x5...or mount it on the wall and
fabricate an adjustable bench...or use 2 enlargers...or...
tv
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