The last time I used a darkroom to make b&w enlargements was... 2007? Even then I didn't really pay much attention to the enlarger besides the parts I needed to use. I know, tsk tsk.
Anyway, I'm shooting more b&w now and want to take the next step and set up a small darkroom.
I am considering picking up a Beseler 23CII Dichro off Craigslist, but I just wanted some advice about what to look out for and other things I should pick up.
The enlarger being offered includes the condenser assembly, a 35mm negative carrier, a lensboard with pilot light (cat #8023), and an El-Nikkor 50mm enlarger lens.
1. I tried to find the manual for this particular model, but was unsuccessful. It seems like this enlarger has a 3-pronged power cord and does not appear to need the Beseler power supply box. Do I just plug this into a Beseler timer?
2. Eventually I'd like to make enlargements from 120 negatives. I know I have to get a 6x6 negative carrier and a 75-80mm enlarger lens. From a cursory Google search for the lensboard it seems like I have to get a different lensboard for different enlarger lens and the lensboard offered is for fitting a 75-80mm lens, not the 50mm... I need a #8021 for the 50mm lens. I'm further confused because looking for a #8021 lensboard gives me two different looking lensboards... Which one do I need for the 23CII Dichro? Will either work?
3. Are all ESJ bulbs "the same", i.e., can I buy any ESJ and fit it to this enlarger?
My shopping list:
- 6x6 negative carrier (any that's compatible with the 23C enlargers?)
- timer
- 75 or 80mm enlarger lens
- #8021 lensboard...
Any push in the right direction would be super helpful. Thank you in advance!