I've been tracking enlargers for sale on eBay and am trying to find one for 35mm and 4x5 at as low of a price as I can without being stupid about it. At the end of the day I'll pay what I need to pay to get something that's decent, but I don't care about frills - I just want something basic and decent.

One question I have is whether you need a dedicated condensor head for each format size.

Another is about the DeJur brand. I don't know much of anything about them but I know they are missing some features (like filter drawers). Any thoughts?

Also, any suggestions about older models where I could still find the basic accessories would be helpful. Or guidance as to what brand/model I could focus on (unintended pun alert! ;-)) for something inexpensive, fundamental, and workable.

Thanks in advance.

Chris.

-- Chris Werner (cbwerner@att.net), July 11, 2000

Answers

Stick to a later-model Omega, Beseler or Saunders/LPL and you'll be ok. The reason is that parts and accessories will be easy to find.

DeJur, otoh, is being stupid about it; if you're missing anything you'll just have to do without.

Condensers are matched to the lens you're going to use regardless of format. Usually to change matches you'll either swap out condensers, alter the position of a condenser, or insert a supplementary condenser.

-- John Hicks (jbh@magicnet.net), July 11, 2000.

The other thing is with off brands, you can't get simple things like negative carriers or lens boards easily.

-- Terry Carraway (TCarraway@compuserve.com), July 13, 2000.

Beseler 4x5 uses a focusing condensor rather than interchangeable condensors to handle different sizes.

1. I agree that a late model is best. You might need parts, and it's easiest if the enlarger is current production.

2. Check for damage to the condensors, scratches, etc. These are likely expensive to replace.

3. Make sure the assembly is solid, that all controls work smoothly. If it is still in production, check out a new unit at your local store. That way you can compare the condition.

I like diffusion light sources. The Saunders/LPL 4500 or 4550 would be my choice, but is likely not the least expensive. If you get a Beseler or Omega, you can buy cold light heads if you end up deciding to go that route, from several different sources.

Good hunting!

-- Charlie Strack (charlie_strack@sti.com), July 13, 2000.

Thanks for the comments. Is there someplace I can look for information on what would represent the later models for each brand?

-- Chris Werner (cbwerner@att.net), July 14, 2000.

Beseler has its own web site. Saunders/LPL is on the Tiffen web site (US distributor) Omega probably has a web site.

Run a search on your favorite search engine and I'm sure you will find what you're looking for.

-- Charlie Strack (charlie_strack@sti.com), July 14, 2000.