Both of these seem relatively reasonably priced, however, the Omega seems like it has the potential to be more versatile over the long run. I'll be doing mostly b&w, but at least want the option of color later on. I also need something that is sturdy as I don't want to have to worry about every little bump. ALSO, I am trying to stay around $150-$300 for my enlarging system (Potentially unrealistic but a man's got to dream). Any info would be helpful. Thanks--Jonathan

-- Jonathan Danz (jdanz@wirefire.com), January 23, 2000

Answers

The D-2 is certainly more versatile, and has better illumination. Remember though, with a D series you need the different condenser sets for the format you want to use unless you find a variable condenser model. The Beseler you just turn a knob. The world is awash in enlargers, and meeting your price goal should be no problem. Some might argue, but my guess is that all the enlargers the world will ever need have already been manufacturered, and a large number of them seem to be in the local photo store!

-- Conrad Hoffman (choffman@rpa.net), January 23, 2000.

Omega. You'll never regret it.

http://www.ravenvision.com/rvapeter.htm

-- Peter Hughes (leo948@yahoo.com), January 31, 2000.

We have both, and they're both fine machines capable of great results. But there's no question, the D-2 is better built and much sturdier, and if there's even a remote chance that you'll shoot 4x5 someday, it's the one to get. It IS larger and heavier, but if you have the space, you won't regret choosing the Omega...

-- Michael Goldfarb (mgoldfar@mobius-inc.com), February 01, 2000.

My 23C II Dual Dichro had terrible illumination problems. The hot spot was so bad that I had to edge burn every print by 50%. I attribute this to the fact that the Beseler fires the light from the bulb directly downward, onto a crude diffusion disc. The Chromega, on the other hand, has the bulb firing into a mixing chamber at a 90 degree angle.

In addition, Beselers have a tendency to go out of alignment at the drop of a hat. The tilting lens stage is a useless feature and certainly a liability insofar as alignment goes.

Another thing to consider: a Simmons 16x20 4-bladed easel, the industry standard 4-bladed, will not fit properly under a 23C.

-- Peter Hughes (leo948@yahoo.com), February 02, 2000.

Okay, First thanks for the advice. Second, I managed to purchase a Beseler Jan. 30 and, now that I see the related postings, I begin to wonder if anyone has anything good to say about the 23C. I feel like I got a modestly good deal on the unit ($250 w/lens (not one of the elite three)) and figure that it should do the trick for a while. I am also banking on the fact that if I decide it's not for me I may be able to make up what I paid for it (or at least close!). Am I insane or does this make sense. Again, any feedback would be much appreciated. Thanks--Jonathan

-- Jonathan Danz (jdanz@wirefire.com), February 02, 2000.

Good things to say about the 23C? Sure. It's a sturdy, well-built machine. Carriers and accessories are pretty easy to get. You don't mention if you got the dichro head, but you might not have the illumination problems I had. And you may not care about the Simmon 16x20 4-bladed easel, which will cost you, even used, close to what you paid for the enlarger. As for alignment, you can get a special board, called a Bes-Align, that is really two lens boards with a piece of foam sandwiched between them; it allows you to align the lens stage very easily. So, all in all, it's a useable and versatile enlarger that has served many people very well. Good luck and have fun.

-- Peter Hughes (leo948@yahoo.com), February 02, 2000.