I just bought a Nikon Coolscan V, and have used several Nikon Coolscans over the past couple of years. I'm content with my choice, although I would have preferred a Coolscan 5000 because it works in 16 bit rather than 14 bit mode, has a somewhat higher D-max, and is capable of doing multi scans. But, I have access to a couple of Imacons, so, if the highest quality is needed, I can use those.
Since you mentioned Velvia, I'd suggest the Coolscan 5000 as its feature set may be helpful with the unique properties of velvia (from what I understand). I'd also suggest you read a lot of scanning tutorials, look for appropriate color profiles, and think about the usefulness of other scanning software, such as Vuescan or Silverfast. If you've got the $$, grab an Imacon 646 ( http://www.imacon.dk/sw3275.asp). You won't look back. If I could have afforded it, I'd have bought one in a heart beat. Consider the Epson 2200 printer, or, if you've got the space and the $$, the new 4000. Shel Belinkoff > [Original Message] > From: Scott Nelson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > I want more control over my colour printing process, which has got me > thinking about 'going digital'. However, digital photography still has > some serious shortfalls in that: > > 1 - I like to do slideshows and digital projection solutions are either > poor or expensive or both > > 2 - I also like shooting at night (moonlit landscapes, star trails, etc) > and I understand that noise becomes a serious issue for long exposures. > > 3 - If I did go digital now, I'd be attracted to either Pentax (small > size, I have some lenses) or Olympus (small size, good build, very > attractive 2 lens kit), but both of these systems have just one body for > the moment and I don't want to commit without knowing where they are > headed. I've tried both the E1 and the *ist D, and I have concerns > about the *ist D AF and buffer depth, and system continuity for the E1. > > So I'm thinking of getting a scanner and a wide format inkjet photo > printer to try out the digital workflow a bit, but I have no idea where > to start. Can anyone recommend a good film scanner, and for that matter > a good photo printer. I want to print to about A3 size (12 or 13 inches > wide). Right now I shoot a lot of FUJI Velvia and Provia 100F. > > Thanks, > Scott
