PMK Pyro versus WD2D+?

[nocrop]

Being cheap, I've got a hankering to replace my dwindling supply of PMK Pyro with the Photographer's Formulary WD2D+ (possibly false economy, true). Freestyle sells it for $16.49 in liquid form to make 25 liters.

I usually shoot Tri-X, HP5+, and occasionally Acros, in 135 and 120. I always scan my film these days (shame, shame). What are the differences I can expect? Advantages and disadvantages between the two pyros?

Thanks!

 

[pgomena]

Processing routine is virtually identical for both. Note that WD2D+ directions say to use only distilled water to make the working solutions. I would guess that there is little buffering in the formulation. John Wimberley is a stickler for detail and consistency, so follow the directions to the letter.

Results are different in that WD2D+ stain is yellow, not the brownish-greenish-yellowish stain of PMK. WD2D+ also seems create less foggy overall stain than PMK. The yellow stain is much less apparent to the eye than PMK stain, but it definitely is there.

Results are similar in terms of sharpness, grain, film speed and image gradation. Both are good developers, both work better with some films than others, both make nice negs. It's kind of up to you, but I'd stick with the one I'm accustomed to. The price difference is pretty small, and the differences in results between the two are not night and day. If you're looking for cheap, try Pyrocat HD. It's aces with Acros.

Peter Gomena

 

[nocrop]

Wonderful! Thanks for the info. Pyrocat HD seems to have passionate adherents. I will try it in the future. For this order it will be PMK, then.

edit: I opted for Pyrocat HD from B&S. Thanks again!

 

[PhotoJim]

Pyrocat HD is a nice developer, but it is not at all like PMK. Pyrocatechin's stain seems to be quite different from pyrogallol's.

 

[pgomena]

Agreed. Pyrocat's stain is brownish. I like Pyrocat because it allows reduced agitation without risk of unevenness. I like the gain in apparent sharpness and the edge effects. With Acros, it gives wonderfully smooth tonal gradation as well. All three are good developers. Each takes some time to get accustomed to, and each gives good results. The results are all slightly different. Take your pick!

Peter Gomena

 

[mrred]

I use WD2D+ and have good success. Up until recently I used suggested times. I was told the negs should look thin, but I scan and not wet print. I really was unsure. Off to the clip tests.....

Took 36 frames of a 18% grey card, cut the film, and started to develop and scan. I used vuescan's vals for the density. This is what I would use to scan anyway. I was surprised how close and far off some of my films were. I also did the same tests for Rodinal, for comparison.

There is no longer any doubt I shall be using staining for the end of time. Like pgomena indicated, consistency is the key. I have not used PMK, but I like what I see with WD2D+. What ever the reason to switch, it would not be something to regret.