Recent content by Michael Firstlight

What is a 120v RHDesigns Analyzer Pro in excellent++ (almost like new) condition - complete with cables, footswitch, and probe worth these days? Mike

What was in it?

An extremely underrated enlarging lens in the same class is the Fujinon-EX 90mm f5.6, which can be had in mint/near-mint condition for around $100-$125 if you want an incredible price/performance ratio and are on a budget. It is an apochromatic design even though Fuji didn't label their APO...

Two of the very best lenses for 6x7/6x9 are the Rodagon APO 90mm f4 and the Schneider APO Componon 90mm 4.5 HM (the HM stands for High Modulation). Here is what ChatGPT says about these two enlarger lenses: 1. Rodenstock Apo-Rodagon-N 90mm f/4.0 Best for: 6x7 and 6x9 formats Why it's the...

I saw one guy modify his salad shooter and attach two reel stems to the part that spins. He puts in two reels that have better balance and can spin harder without worrying about the reel tumbling around too much. Pretty creative.

Search the web for Film drying with Salad Shooter - several of us do this after Photo Flo etc.

Is there a risk the film base might crush and not remain 0.10 mm?

I found the shim stock. Chat GPT said the following: A single strip of cloth gaffer's tape typically has a thickness ranging from 10 to 13 mils (0.010 to 0.013 inches), depending on the brand and type. To find a metal shim stock equivalent: Look for metal shim stock in the range of 0.010 to...

Yup, I am a bit OCD myself. I put a lot into my darkroom gear to have a non-compromise set-up - like top APO lenses etc - so yah, I have to get it right on the money. I added one strip of cloth gaffer's tape across the right underside of my 20x24" easel and it is now pretty much spot on. I...

Thanks. I tested the lens-to-baseboard and lens-to-easel stage using the provided glass strip held tight against the lens housing and found that my enlarger is about 1/16th of an inch (maybe less) off on the right side. I checked it at all different heights - it was nearly on center with the...

I have my hands on a Versalb Parallel. I have an LPL4550XLG. To use it, I put my glass carrier in the enlarger as the instructions indicated I could use it to align with the negative stage. I put the Versalab on the easel and turned it on. I was then able to move the Versalb Parallel around...

Andrew, welcome to Photrio from Asheville!

Interesting review: https://tinker.koraks.nl/photography/unsafe-lights-the-iffy-business-of-ra4-safelights/

I've just purchased a Schneider 90mm f4.5 APO Componon Enlarger lens in mint condition. I've also purchased and installed a Heiland Splitgrade system for my LPL4550XLG.

Welcome, Marc! Another win over from Digital Preview! Mike