How much interest in 8x10 film processing system; take our poll

[tim48v]

Since our SP-457 film system for 5x7 has died a quiet death, we're re-evaluating the interest in an 8x10 version.

Please take a minute to answer our poll questions below. Note: the 8x10 version would probably process 2 sheets of 8x10 or 4 sheets of 5x7 in around 1 liter.

BTW, in case you missed it, here's the video explaining why we did the 5x7 first:

 

[Michael W]

If I heard correctly, it will require two liters of developer for two sheets of 8x10 film. That would make me hesitant to get one as I currently dev two sheets in a Jobo 2830 using just 400ml liquid.

 

[juan]

I had not heard of your SP-445, so I did a search and found this review
Dead Link Removed
As I understand it, this is a sort of daylight tank for 4x5 film.

I use 8x10 double sided X-ray film. Would the devices that hold the film in your tank allow developer to reach both sides of the film? If so, it looks like it would be useful, particularly on the road.
Juan

 

[Andrew O'Neill]

It would be great for stand/semi-stand development.

 

[tim48v]

The video is a bit out of date; the new version would handle 2 sheets/ about 1 liter.
More info on the SP-445: Dead Link Removed

 

[teejay]

I use your 445 and think its great - would definitely be interested in an 8x10 version.

 

[KenS]

Had this system been available before I invested in both my 4x5 and 8x10 inch BTZS tubes I probably would have been interested..... since it is probably 'easier' and more 'comfortable' than the many years of tray and Kodak tank developing that required so doing in the dark. That being said, I don't think there might be any additional advantage (at this time) that might encourage me to change over from my current technique... which works quite well using a similar or lower developer volume.

Ken

 

[faberryman]

I like the sp-445 very much and would jump at the chance for an 8x10 version if you can keep the cost down and keep chemical use to around 1 liter.

 

[rthollenbeck]

I agree that 2 liters seems like a lot of developer.

 

[mshchem]

Nope

 

[StoneNYC]

I only voted for "less than $100" because of the 1L of chemistry aspect.

For 2 sheets of film, that's a lot of chemistry when I only need 300ml for 5 sheets with my JOBO 3005 tank.

Can you get it down to 500ml? That might make it a viable option for travel and "on location" developing.

Thanks for looking into this. I think 8x10 makes more sense. Broader audience.

Good luck!

 

[shashinzukuri]

CatLABs wants $129 for just their CL81 spindle, not even including the 2700ml capacity Jobo tank it takes, so I'm in for $150-200 by comparison alone. Admittedly, the Jobo tank can do 12 sheets of 4x5 if you have the right reels, but it seems excessive all around.

 

[mshchem]

I have Jobo Expert tanks 3005, 3006, 3010. Catlabs CL81. 1 gallon and 3 1/2 gallon Stainless tanks with 8x10 hangers, 2 way 5x7, 4 way 4x5. Jobo and Nikor sheet film tanks. So sure I have a tendency to accumulate. All along my thought has been, focus on making a device to evaluate exposure rapidly with a monobath solution. Use it as a Polaroid type device. Then shoot your project and go home and use what ever you want to produce your final films.
Back in the good old days, big commercial studios would make quick test negatives, and use studio proof paper to check lighting etc. This would be great for just checking quick.

 

[TheToadMen]

I backed the 5x7" Kickstarter Project, but that didn't reach its goal unfortunately. I still would like to see a 5x7" version. I might be (with some hesitation) only interested in the 8x10" version if it can process 4 sheets of 5x7" easily.

 

[locutus]

5x7 inserts for the 8x10 tank would make for a very nice 'stretch goal'

 

[rem4]

Would be interested for 8x10. Maybe it could have multiple inserts for 4x5 and 5x7 users.

 

[Hans Mulders]

2 sheets 8x10 and option for 4 sheets 5x7 would be interesting.

 

[Alan Barton]

I just received my 445 and tried it out today. Easy to load, easy to use and clean. Seems like very even development (Pyrocat HD, semi-stand). Highly recommended!

The 8x10 at around $150 would be great -even better if, like the 445, you can do 4 sheets. Good luck!

 

[juan]

I'd still like to know if these expose both sides to the developer so I could use them with x-ray film.