Recommendations on large RC paper?

I plan to be printing 16x20 and up. I've never handled paper this size, so I'm thinking that RC would be easier to use, although I much prefer fiber. What RC paper would you recommend that:

- Dries flatter than most RCs.
- Has good tonal quality.
- Lacks the RC "glaze."

First off Bruce I must say I've never found an R/C paper that didn't dry flat; anyway have a look at the Kentmere range. Their VC Select, Satin, and Fine Lustre finishes may be what you are looking for. My preference is for the Fine Lustre finish. This paper also tones very well, equal to FB in that respect, and there is a warmtone version if you need it.

RC paper

I've only used Ilford MG IV, Ilford Graded, and Kodak papers. By far the most preferred have been the Ilford as the blacks are richer and don't have a bluish or brownish tinge. They have consistently dried flat. I did experience a bit of a problem with Ilford double-weight paper (Portfolio, I think) in that it developed a stain around the edge. It didn' affect the image quality though but was unacceptable if the border was to be shown. I don't know if it was caused by my processing or if there was a problem with the paper.
I use glossy, satin, and matte finishes depending on the photograph, and find each to have strengths and weaknesses depending on aesthetic preferences. I didn't find any issues with glare, sheen, or other unwanted characteristics.

Bruce,

I have had great results from Ilford fibre and RC papers in the 20x24 size. The RC is bullet proof as far as handling, and the cost encourages multiple range prints. The fibre is also easy to handle, but curls upon drying. Pressing the FB prints will flatten them enough for a pro mount. The cost difference is significant, but FB paper looks better.

I use both AGFA Multicontrast Premium (RC) in semi-matte and Classic (FB) in glossy surface, both in 20x24 size. The main difference is in the base color, and so I select MCP for bright white base, MCC for off white base. Both are very good and the FB is easily flattened by a vacuum press. I have about $1000 worth of stock of these papers, but they are discontinued as of 2005... very sad.

Largest prints on paper have been on Ilford graded Ilfospeed, & later Multicontrast RC.

The secret is to undo the sinks plumbing so you can use it as a tray, reusing the chemicals, refix the drained for washing.

With very large prints I usually process in a large darkroom sink using the dev more dilute than normal with a soft sponge to ensure even development. Sizes well certainly up to about 7ft x4ft, with a horizontal enlarger.

However normally I only print up to 24" x 30" and see-saw the paper through 24" dishes, again diluting the developer more than normal to prevent uneven development, and actually using slightly stronger than usual stop & fix, as well.

Ian

On the processing aspect, up to 22"x30" I use a single tray technique. Full strength DS-14, water rinse, alkaline rapid fix, water rinse, tone in polysulfide and selenium, rinse, wash aid, final wash. Instead of preparing one tray for each chemical, I use one tray for each print.

Of course, the tray is big to lift up to pour chemicals back to buckets, so I have something to step on to make it a little easy.