Enlarger for 6 x 7

bluedog · Jun 2, 2008

I'm about to re-establish a darkroom after a break of around 15 years. Previously I owned a fairly basic B&W enlarger. I'm looking to get an enlarger for 35mm and up to 6x7 negatives and only B&W. I've read a bit about the cold light heads - does the type of light source really matter that much? Any recommendations on particular models to cope with the 6x7 negs? Down here in Australia LPL seem to be the popular choice. Any advice or comments greatly appreciated.

ath · Jun 2, 2008

I'm very satisfied with my LPL. It is sold under different brands, e.g. Jobo LPL 7700. It is sturdy, provides some means for adjustments and the column is long enough for enlargements up to 40*60cm with a 50mm lens on the baseboard. You can get it as bw version (opallamp with condenser, maybe only used nowadays), as multigrade or with dichroic colour head.

Mick Fagan · Jun 2, 2008

I have an LPL 7700 colour enlarger with some bits and bobs.

Currently it is supposed to be going to someone in or near Geelong, but I have not received a reply back as to when and where, or if, this is supposed to happen.

It is taking up room in my darkroom, which isn't too much of a problem, but I have plans for the separate 3mx3m room attached to my actual darkroom.

I'll have another go at finding out if or when it is supposed to be going, if it it isn't happening you can have it.

Cost is free.

But don't get your hopes up too much, it is supposed to be spoken for.

I'll make enquiries tonight.

Mick.

bluedog · Jun 3, 2008

Thanks Mick, your offer is very generous and very much appreciated (even if it doesn't eventuate). Now that I know a 7700 will adequately do 6x7 negs I'll keep my eyes open for any that may come along.
Regards
Greg

naknak · Jun 3, 2008

The Meopta Magnifax 4a.From 35mm to 6x9cm (Europe).
Kyprianos

jp80874 · Jun 3, 2008

Greg,

When facing the same question the professional who sold me one of his 6x7 Mamiya RZ cameras said that it was very common to go up to 4x5 from 6x7. He suggested that I save myself another purchase by starting with a 4x5 enlarger. After much study I bought the LPL 4550XLG/VCCE Enlarger. For 6x7 I used a 90mm lens. For 4x5 I used a 150mm lens. The lens boards and negative carriers are also different.

This is a diffusion enlarger where you dial in the contrast level you want. Search here and on the Large Format Forum and you will find pages of discussion on which light source is best. For 8x10 I went to a cold light head. Both are good. Enjoy the ride.

John Powers

MarcoGiardini · Jun 3, 2008

Durst 707, color head.
Amazing and recommended

ozphoto · Jun 3, 2008

I too have a LPL7700. It works beautifully. I have even dismantled a busted universal 6x7 carrier to use for my Kodak folding 6x9 negs.
These have come up an absolute treat as well!
Have seen a few of these advertised in the Photographic Trader and I know there is one at my local store, so they seem to come up more often than not.

You won't be disappointed if you land one of these.

-Nanette

RobC · Jun 3, 2008

any of the durst 6x7 enlargers are good.

Modular 70 B+W head (condenser) colour head (diffusion)
M670 make sure you have condensers for 6x7
M707 a bit older
M805 upto 6x9

With any of them there were lots of modules so some have colour heads, some B+W some auto focus so be sure to check exactly what you are getting

Modular 70 or M670 are both very good enalrgers. The Modular 70 Pro (column height 44inches) will do 20x24 on the baseboard. column base to optical axis is 11 inches. The M670 is a little smaller and will do 20x16 on the baseboard.

In other words, make sure you get an enlarger which can enlarge to the print size you want and don't forget that an easel will usually take at least 2 inches of the distance from base of column to optical axis so an M670 with an easel may only make a 12x16 actual print size. M670's are plentiful in europe and sell for very little. I saw a complete darkroom setup including an M670 go for £30 very recently.

bluedog · Jun 6, 2008

Thanks for all the advice. Finally ended up with an LPL7452 with loads of extras. The digital revolution is certainly beneficial for some of us!
Greg

mudman · Jun 6, 2008

Glad you found something. I'm surprised no one mentioned the Beseler 23C. Great enlarger.

Enlarger for 6 x 7

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