Learning about FX-39 ii

[StevieRose]

Hello
I am purchasing my first bottle of FX-39 and would like to learn as much about it as I can. I know that there are times posted on the Massive Dev site, but, would like to understand more about the developer itself, how to use it to accomplish different outcomes; effects of changing times, dilution, temperature; it’s history, etc.. I have read through various Internet forums here and elsewhere, and picked up a few things. Can you direct me to any monographs, articles, or reviews that would be helpful to me?

Thank you!

Steve Rosenblum

 

[Alan9940]

Hi Steve,

Never used the "ii" version of FX-39, but back when I used it fairly regularly I followed the advice here:

https://www.digitaltruth.com/devchart.php?doc=paterson-alt

You may have come across this info, already. I found that following development times other than Michael's, especially Paterson development times, produced negatives of higher contrast than I wanted.

 

[StevieRose]

Hi Steve,

Never used the "ii" version of FX-39, but back when I used it fairly regularly I followed the advice here:

https://www.digitaltruth.com/devchart.php?doc=paterson-alt

You may have come across this info, already. I found that following development times other than Michael's, especially Paterson development times, produced negatives of higher contrast than I wanted.

Yes, I have seen this. I am new at this, so have a few questions: Do you know, are these times based upon 68 degree temperature (20 degree C)? I don't see anything about temps on that page. When he says "Agitation during development should be standardised at two inversion once per minute" does that mean that should be done after an initial period of agitation (such as 30 seconds) followed by two inversions every minute, or does it mean to only do 2 agitations per minute the whole time? Lastly, what is the reason for increasing the time by 20% for roll film? I shoot both 35mm and 120.

Thanks!

 

[Alan9940]

Hi Steve,

Sorry, it has been quite a few years since I used FX-39 so I hope I don't lead you astray. IIRC the times are based on 68F. I developed only 120 roll film with this developer and used his times as only a starting point; I do my own testing to determine personal EI a and development time. Also, since I live in the desert I have standardized on 75F. My experience with FX-39 was short because in my experience it went bad quickly. Anyway, I'd suggest starting with his recommendations and adjust from there.

 

[StevieRose]

OK, so I just received my first bottle of FX-39 ii from Freestyle. The concentrate in the bottle is brown in color. Is is supposed to be? Just checking as a lot of developers turn brown when they are bad. Thanks!

 

[Alan9940]

Hi Steve,

No FX-39 I ever used was brown. I'd call Freestyle and find out if that's normal.