Question about enlarger bulbs... (beseler 67s dichro)

[rjas]

Should I be buying the Beseler branded bulbs (85w 82v ESJ) for consistency in contrast / colour output or are bulbs of the same specs the same and is it safe to go with the Wiko brand which can be found for cheaper? I notice B&H Photo states: "Bulb brand may vary depending on availability.", which leads me to believe buying whatever bulb that meets the specs at the lowest price is the best bet? My concern is the fact that later on down the line I might have to switch back to the more expensive Beseler branded bulbs due to availability and experience a change in my light output, affecting colour balance and contrast?

 

[Nick Zentena]

I seriously doubt Beseler makes bulbs. Buy whatever you find that fits. OTOH expect things to vary when you change bulbs. Not just because the bulbs maybe different but because an old bulb is different then a new bulb.

 

[T42]

Hi Guys.

I don't have the 67 dichro Beseler. I have the 23C dichro. One thing I noticed is that variations in available house voltage can change the light's color too. So, I put a SOLA constant voltage transformer in the bulb's AC supply line.

 

[davetravis]

Rjas,
I use the Bessler enlarger and I've tried three different brands and found no noticeable difference in color or contrast. The specs for "ESJ" and halogen are all that matter, and should be consistent across brand lines. Just buy one and see if it works, before stocking up.
Good luck.

 

[rjas]

thanks for the replies... bought 5 bulbs for $20, instead of paying $20 each for "beseler branded" ones