35mm film scanners

[Woolliscroft]

I am looking to replace an aging Nikon Coolscan II dedicated film scanner. I have always been fairly happy with the way the old one managed negs and the fairly low 2,800 ppi resolution was OK for most (although not all) of my needs, but its dynamic range was never up to contrasty slides. I am planning to buy a more modern model and have narrowed it down to the newer Coolscan V LS50ED and the Minolta Dimage Scan Elite 5400. Does anyone have experience of either/both of these. The Minolta seems to have a density range and higher resolution, but I have seen reviews that say that the (cheaper) Nikon is better even so. I have also heard of reliability issues with the Minolta. Any information gratefully received.

David.

 

[Craig]

I've used the Nikon Coolscan IV, and have the Minolta 3200 dpi model - can't recall the exact name. I think the Nikon software is much easier to use and a lot less fussy. If I had to do it again, I'd take the Nikon anyday.

Craig

 

[Dave Parker]

I have the scan elite 5400 and love it, very easy to use and handles just about anything you can throw at it..

Dave

 

[modafoto]

I have the Scan Dual III from Minolta and can only recommend them.

 

[eatfrog]

I bought a Scan Dual IV 3 weeks ago. This monday I sent it back, because it suddenly stopped working, after 2 weeks of use, 50 frames scanned.
I was pretty angry, and now it will take a month before I get it back from the repair shop.

But but, these things happen, and they usually break in the first weeks of use. It's just too bad it had to happen ME. ;-)