I've been away from developing for a while but would like to start up again with equipment of my own. I've been watching e-bay for an enlarger, but I don't know which ones are deals and which enlargers are likely losers. I'm seeing brands like Omega, Durst, Vivitar, Beseler.... and on... Does anyone have a suggestion for what I may want for simple, B&W, not larger than 10x12 printing? Thanks!

-- Danelle Haake (streamkeeper@hotmail.com), July 07, 2000

Answers

I'd suggest a clean used Beseler 23C. They're pretty common and parts and accessories are readily available.

Avoid Vivitar, Philips, Fuji and old Durst; parts such as lensboards and carriers can be just about impossible to find and/or really expensive.

-- John Hicks (jbh@magicnet.net), July 07, 2000.

A used "D" series Omega is another option. Parts and accessories are available. An added bonus is that the enlarger can accomodate 4"x5" down to 35mm. Buying a 4x5 may be considered overkill right now for you,but,Omegas (and Besslers for that matter) are very rugged simple devices that will last many years. Getting a 4x5 up front will actually be more economical.

-- Robert Orofino (rorofino@iopener.net), July 08, 2000.

I agree with those who say get bigger than you plan on needing. However, make sure you have the room for it. You may need a smaller enlarger to fit your space.

All the brands you mention are good brands. Some of them did/do make "starter" enlargers that are probably best passed by, unless you need a small enlarger.

I would consider picking up a color enlarger with dichroic head (dial in filtering). It will work great for variable contrast paper, and if you ever want to do color, you are set.

-- Terry Carraway (TCarraway@compuserve.com), July 08, 2000.

I also agree with staying with the "majors". Down the road, let's say you want a piece for your enlarger like a flex arm focusing rod for doing large enlargements... you'll have an easier time finding it for an Omega or Beseler than any other manufacturer. Just my two cents... Cheers, Scott

-- Scott Walton (scotlynn@shore.net), July 10, 2000.