Omega 4500-II LPL Dichroic questions

[kbrede]

I'm taking a 35mm film class at a local community college. I wanted to see if I'd like darkroom work, and I do. So I'm beginning to put together equipment for a bathroom darkroom. The largest camera format I currently have is 6x7 but I want to get a 4x5 enlarger to grow into. I'm contemplating the Omega 4500-II LPL Dichroic. The one I'm looking at doesn't come with lenses or carriers. I'd initially want to set up for 35mm and 6x7. It has the mixing chamber/multiplier for both formats. I'll be working with B&W film for the foreseeable future.

Does anyone have a pdf of the manual for this enlarger? I can't find one online.

I've only worked with tray type filters at this point. I know nothing about the 4500-II's filtration system. The specs say: 0-200 Yellow, 0-200 Cyan and 0-170 Magenta. Will this replicate #00 through #5 tray filters?

As for carriers, is glass worth the extra expense?

What quality lens brands would you recommend for this enlarger? I'm not sure what size hole the lens boards have for this enlarger.

What is the top price point you'd pay for this enlarger?

Thanks,

 

[George Nova Scotia]

Nice enlarger. Check out KHB this enlarger has been marketed under various names. The do sell a manual reprint for it. I have a manual for 4550XL online, it should be very similar if you want to have a look.

Most VC paper will have filter setups on the instruction sheets. Check out http://www.ilfordphoto.com/Webfiles/2010628932591755.pdf

I've never used glass carriers. Lots of opinions around. I don't think I'd bother for 35mm might try sometime on larger formats.

I'd buy the best lens I could find. Lots of good ones out there. 50mm is normal for 35mm, most 80mm will cover 6x7. The 80 is also useful for 35mm for smaller enlargements (under 8x10) it gives you more working room. Same idea with a 135 for 6x7. So don't walk away from a longer lens if you can get a good buy. I usually use an 80mm lens with 35mm when making postcards!

There are a few lens boards available, most 50 & 80 lens will fit a standard 39mm board.

How much depends. The 4550XL I bought for $200, it had a VC filter module, 3 El-Nokkor lens, 4 neg carriers, etc. I noticed one for sale locally for $900 with a bunch of stuff - still for sale I think. So price will vary depending on many factors, most important seems to be be how bad the person selling wants to get rid of it and if you can convince them it's going to a good home.

 

[kbrede]

Thanks George for your response. The link to the manual was broke but I found the manual at: http://www.silveruser.ca/Manuals/LPL7452.pdf
Thanks again!