Print slot processors

[mattvo]

Other than the NOVA's, Jobo Prima and the optima, are there other options for slot processing b&w prints in the darkroom?
And for users with experience, is it worth it and does it come with disadvantages?

 

[Pieter12]

Other than the NOVA's, Jobo Prima and the optima, are there other options for slot processing b&w prints in the darkroom?
And for users with experience, is it worth it and does it come with disadvantages?

I have been using a Nova Monchrome fro the last 4 years or so and find it very convenient for up to 11x14"--one downside is the grip that you use to insert and agitate the print leaves a tiny mark about 1/16" from the edge of the paper. It usually doesn't show much once the print is flattened and can be easily trimmed off if bothersome. Also, the Monochrome is not designed for fiber-based paper although that is all I print. I have only noticed a gradual bit of paper fibers accumulating in the fixer slot after a few sessions. A big advantage, apart from the fact that it takes very little space is the fact that the chemicals have much less exposure to the air and last much longer. You can easily cover the slots with the covers provided or even put some cling-wrap over the processor as well. I always process my prints for the full developing time, so the fact that you can't see the whole print during developing is not a drawback for me. There is a Nova processor for fiber-base that uses a holder that cradles the paper so you wouldn't have the little pin-prick of the gripper on the paper and I think it has a transparent construction so you may be able to watch the development. There is a new model out there too, but I have no experience with that one. All the slot processors are more expensive than trays, but easy to use once you get used to them.

 

[logan2z]

I have been using a Nova Monchrome fro the last 4 years or so and find it very convenient for up to 11x14"--one downside is the grip that you use to insert and agitate the print leaves a tiny mark about 1/16" from the edge of the paper. It usually doesn't show much once the print is flattened and can be easily trimmed off if bothersome. Also, the Monochrome is not designed for fiber-based paper although that is all I print. I have only noticed a gradual bit of paper fibers accumulating in the fixer slot after a few sessions. A big advantage, apart from the fact that it takes very little space is the fact that the chemicals have much less exposure to the air and last much longer. You can easily cover the slots with the covers provided or even put some cling-wrap over the processor as well. I always process my prints for the full developing time, so the fact that you can't see the whole print during developing is not a drawback for me. There is a Nova processor for fiber-base that uses a holder that cradles the paper so you wouldn't have the little pin-prick of the gripper on the paper and I think it has a transparent construction so you may be able to watch the development. There is a new model out there too, but I have no experience with that one. All the slot processors are more expensive than trays, but easy to use once you get used to them.

I also use a Nova Monochrome for printing on fiber-based paper and my experience is pretty much the same. The space savings is a huge advantage for me and I like the fact that I can print at a moment's notice without the need to mix chemistry for each printing session.

Buying a Nova from the US is fairly expensive since shipping costs are high, but the convenience and time savings of a slot processor was worth the cost to me.

 

[Luckless]

All the slot processors are more expensive than trays, but easy to use once you get used to them.

What kind of agitation do you get with them, and are there any issues with uneven development, or chemistry settling out/selectively exhausting in regions of extreme exposure/non-exposure?

I'm working on finalizing designs for a 'Pop-up Apartment Darkroom', and debating between a slot style print developer and stacked trays.

 

[mattvo]

Thank you for the replies! Have you ever had the paper stick to the sides of the tanks? Is the difference in fumes noticeable?

 

[Pieter12]

What kind of agitation do you get with them, and are there any issues with uneven development, or chemistry settling out/selectively exhausting in regions of extreme exposure/non-exposure?

I'm working on finalizing designs for a 'Pop-up Apartment Darkroom', and debating between a slot style print developer and stacked trays.

I move the paper in a circular motion, pulling it almost completely out of the slot a few times during development. I have never had uneven development, not have I had the emulsion side of the paper stick to the side of the slot. During development, the paper is pretty much in constant movement. The tricky part is moving large (11x14) prints from slot to slot. I grab the far corner of the print lightly with my free hand to do that, rinsing that hand in the wash tray between to avoid staining the print. As far as fumes, because there is so little air exposure, it is much less than trays.

 

[logan2z]

I move the paper in a circular motion, pulling it almost completely out of the slot a few times during development. I have never had uneven development, not have I had the emulsion side of the paper stick to the side of the slot. During development, the paper is pretty much in constant movement. The tricky part is moving large (11x14) prints from slot to slot. I grab the far corner of the print lightly with my free hand to do that, rinsing that hand in the wash tray between to avoid staining the print. As far as fumes, because there is so little air exposure, it is much less than trays.

Yes, 11x14s are a bit tricky. I either use two print clips or just guide the print with my other hand as you do.

 

[john_s]

Thank you for the replies! Have you ever had the paper stick to the sides of the tanks? Is the difference in fumes noticeable?

The plastic is textured so the paper does not stick. However the print needs to be moved a bit during development because the texture can leave a subtle pattern of different degreees of development which I didn't notice until I did a Tim Rudman toning course and he noticed it but only after toning.

Once it was pointed out to me I couldn't ignore it.

The difference in the smell is very noticeable to me, not surprising given the difference in surface area.

I am a slow darkroom worker so coming back next day or two with the same chemicals saves me lots of time.

 

[mattvo]

Thank you all for the replies. I'm afraid I'll have to cough up and take the plunge.

 

[bdial]

I consider my Nova to be one of the more useful parts of my darkroom kit. As mentioned, it takes up relatively little space, chemistry lasts for a long time, smells are contained. And if you're printing regularly, it's very fast to go from walking in the room to processing your first print, as pretty much all you need to do is take of the floating lids and start working.