Magnifax 4 questions

[antielectrons]

Hi gang,

Just picked up a nice Magnifax 4 which I intend to use for printing 6x6 negs from my Rollei 2.8f . The previous owner had it set up for 35mm printing, so my questions relate to what will I need for 6x6 printing?

I think I need

a) 6x6 mixing chamber
b) 6x6 negative insert
c) 80mm enlarging lens

Have I left anything out?

I have not used one before so am pretty much in the dark (no pun intended). One of the factors that lead me to choose this enlarger was its ability to print 6x6 negs including the negative border (which I particularly like). Supplementary question: can I do without the 6x6 negative insert and just use the glass holder, or do I need to have a negative insert, and if so how does my choice of insert affect the printing of neg borders?

Any help much appreciated.

Regards,
Antonio

 

[David H. Bebbington]

I have a Magnifax 4. Assuming you have a color or multigrade head, your shopping list is correct. You can of course use the neg carrier with the glasses in it instead of the metal inserts - the glass inserts give better flatness in theory (although the glassless carrier works fine) but of course are more susceptible to dust. You will not be able to print black borders with the glassless carrier. Finally, don't forget that you can use the same lens panel for 50 mm and 80 mm lenses, you just need to turn it the other way up! Also check that the previous owner actually did fit a 35 mm mixing chamber - he might have used a bigger one (also works with 35 mm but not as bright).

 

[antielectrons]

Hi David,

Wow, that was a fast reply. Thanks. I actually got the B&W Magnifax. The seller is now saying it comes with a 6x6 mixing chamber and negative insert, so I guess I can save some money, although I have heard that you should change the mixing chambers every 5 years or so as they tend to yellow with time.

Thanks for the tip about the lens holders. So which way up do I need for the 80mm lens, I am guessing longest lengh down for 80mm.... Do you know where I can pick up a PDF of the manual for this baby?