Polymax Filters

[Marvin]

I bought a set of 6X6 Polymax filters for my Beseler 23CIIXL and was just wondering if they were close to Ilford Multigrade in the contrast range.
Marvin

 

[brianmquinn]

I read a article in Photo Techniques a few years ago that found them to be similar. But the difference was enough that the reviewer felt that there could be something said for owning both the Ilford and Kodak filter set. Also realize that these filters fade with use. So two sets of the same kind of filters may differ just due to the amount of use they have had.

 

[fschifano]

I have a set of each, both the Ilford and Kodak filters. While they look very different, they behave very similarly in terms of contrast control. They differ in the amount of exposure compensation that you need to apply. Of course that all depends on the paper you're using too, so it's a wash.

 

[Marvin]

Thanks for the info. I will just try them out and see what the results are. I also have a set of Polycontrast filters for under the lens. The Polymax filters look good and haven't been cut but I will have to cut them for the 23CIIXL filter drawer.

 

[fschifano]

Just make sure that when you do cut them you leave the corner with the filter number intact.