Looking at Belseler CB7 tomorrow - what to watch for?

[f/stopblues]

I'm going to take a look at a Beleser CB7 tomorrow, but I don't have any experience with them. I'm hoping to replace my Beseler MX45. Do you guys have any tips about what to look for to make sure I can get it up and running with minimal fiddling.

Also, assuming halfway decent condition and including just the basic enlarger (no lenses, etc) is $150 a fair price?

Thanks!
Chris

 

[Chan Tran]

I think it's fair although I paid $120 for mine delivered with the dichroic head.

 

[Fred De Van]

I loved my CB7 but why go backwards. I bought mine in the 60's.

Your MX must be 15-20 years newer.

Other than the front controls and motorized focus, the MX is an evolution of the CB7.

Note: lamphead parts for the CB7 are larger than the other 4x5 Beseler enlargers. The condensers are bigger in an effort to get improved 4x5 corner illumination. MC/H/MX/MXII/MXV color and diff. heads require an adapter. Wiring some modern timers thru the front controls may be tricky. it is a 50 year old design.

The only real upgrade from a MX would be a V model. Beyond that its a Durst 1200.

Fred

 

[Chan Tran]

I like the CB-7 a lot better. I like the power tracks in the frame. They work well and eliminate all the wires. I rewired the the whole thing so the front panel timer switch will start the timer. I get rid of the old mechanical timer and the voltage stabilizer. The CB-7 is much more rigid and is easier to align.