Bulb supply for durst cls 1000 5x7 color head

[frotog]

Does anyone know a good source for the 1000w bulbs for the durst cls 1000 5x7 color head? I spoke to Jens Jenson at Jenson Optical (formerly Durst-Pro usa) and he wants $185 for the durst bulb and $85 for an aftermarket brand. Seems a bit steep to me. He also claimed that Durst inspects each bulb they brand, rejecting 97% of the lot due to slight inconsistencies which supposedly affect the head's ability to evenly distribute light. It seems like a spurious claim to me. I find it hard to imagine in this digital era that durst is still individually checking bulbs for an enlarger they no longer manufacture.

 

[Nick Zentena]

Do you know the code for the bulb? Lots of bulb sellers if you know the right code.

 

[percepts]

durst UK rep told me years ago that durst had stopped selling tested lamps. The tests were largely for colour balance of the lamp. However, for B+W you would never be able to tell the difference and even if there was a slight contrast difference due to colour balance of lamp, you can easily compensate for it.
The same applies for a lamp used for colour printing. When you instal a new lamp you just produce some test prints to find the amount of Y+M you need to get a base print. i.e. tested lamps are a nicety but certainly not a necessity.

Just google osram and search their site. You will quickly find a suitable alternative. Just be aware that some lamps have white reflectors, some silver and some are for projectors.

p.s. the durst tested lamps had a purple spot painted on the back which fades after a certain time of lamp being on. The reason is so that durst knew if the lamp blew the first time it is switched on. If the spot was faded they knew the lamp had been used.

 

[frotog]

Thanks for the good info, Percepts!