How complicated is it to use a dichroic head enlarger when working with multigrade papers? Is the filtration easy to dial in or should I just stick with an enlarger that has filter drawers? I'd like to upgrade to a diffused light source but can't really afford to buy an enlarger with a variable contrast head. Thoughts or personal experiences would be appreciated.

-- bo pryszlak (natabo@aztec-net.com), October 30, 2001

Answers

I have a PDF that I can send you for the dial in contrast filters... email me. It is from grade 1 to grade 4 which can cover ALOT of situations. The other way is to get a cold light head and use filters or just adjust your developing to math the head... Cheers

-- Scott Walton (scotlynn@shore.net), October 31, 2001.

After years of printing with a condenser enlarger and drop in filters, I finally switched to a diffused dichroic head. Dialing in the filtration is much easier, faster, and more easily fine tuned. There are many published guides for the filter requirements. I think all VC paper manufactures include them with their papers based on enlarger brand. You can easily make your own chart if you wish to experiment a little. You'll love it!

-- Arden Howell (Serenisea @aol.com), October 31, 2001.