I am looking at a used C700 that is in excellent condition. I am just starting my darkroom and I plan to grow with in the future. Money is limited, so I cannot setup the darkroom with the enlarger I really want. Is the C700 an enlarger worth considering to get started with? Is there anything, pro or con that I should know? Thanks for your help.

-- Denise Clay (dclay@conninc.com), July 31, 1998

Answers

Hi Denise, I have used this enlarger for about 8 years, and while its not a real expensive model , I`ve had beautiful results with it. I use Ilford Multigrade filters for contrast. I have often been tempted to buy a "better" enlarger, but through my experience and from countless other darkroom and photography people I`ve heard this statement:" The equipment is only as good as the person using it" So I would give this one a try . I doubt anyone can tell what kind of enlarger you use from the finished print. Tom

-- Thomas Horan (Fishman57@aol.com), August 16, 1998.

Denise, I've used a C-700 for around six years now, and it has delivered professional-level results. The main caveat I can think of is that, like most other entry level enlargers, it is limited to an 11 x 14 print size on the baseboard. Also, for longer exposures, you'll probably want the optional heat absorbing glass to keep your negatives from popping.

More important than the enlarger is the lens you use with it, so take some of the money you save with the C-700 and invest in a good enlarging lens: an El Nikkor, Schneider Componon-S, etc. You may be amazed at the sharpness the "baby" Omega can achieve.

-- Brian Hinther (BrianH@sd314.k12.id.us), March 03, 1999.