Posted by Doug Clifford on May 28, 2000 at 13:44:06:
In Reply to: Best B/W enlarger for schools? posted by R Barnett on May 27, 2000 at 21:51:07:
: Who can suggest a B/W 35 mm enlarger which will be used at the high school level. I have a number of old Vivitars but can't find replacement parts. I would like suggestions on replacement enlargers. Cost is a factor but they need to stand up to wear and tear. Thank you.
This is almost like asking which camera is best. People who use Omega enlargers will recommend Omegas and people who use Beseler enlargers will recommend Beseler. Both are American-made and both are good choices.
Personally, I'd recommend the Beseler 23C-XL - it will handle both 35mm and medium format negatives with the appropriate lens and negative carrier. (50mm lens for 35mm film, 75mm lens for 2-1/4 x 2-1/4 square negatives and 90-105mm for 6x7cm negatives. The 23C has been made for roughly 30 years and a used one can be purchased for about $300-$350. I'd choose the Beseler over the Omega because the 23C has twin steel support columns while I believe the Omega has a single steel support column. There are two 23C models, the XL version has longer columns and a larger baseboard which allow 16x20 prints to be made right on the baseboard.
end of archived message
[ Post New Message ] [ View Current Messages ] [ FAQ ]