Saunders/LPL 4550 XLG and 20x24

[Michael Firstlight]

I have aquired Saunders/LPS 4550 XLG enlarger - the one with the extended column. Up to now I've been using a Saunders 7700 but upgraded to the 4550 as I'll be using it mostly for 4x5. I've been wondering for a while now if a Saunders adjustable 4-bladed easel would work on the 4550 XLG baseboard. The dimensions of that easel is 29 1/4 wide x 25 1/4 deep. I measured the baseboard and the baseboard is deeper than the depth of the easel - 27 3/4" depth front edge of the baseboard to the column by 23.5" wide (the width of the easel would obviously extend out the sides - but will I be able to print 20x24 with that easel on the baseboard given where the center of the image will be projected? I have a 150mm enlarging lens for 4.5 and an 80mm lens for 6x7 film.

Regards,
Mike

 

[ic-racer]

Omega D (4x5) is about the same dimensions. The Beseler 16x20 already overhangs by about 3 inches all the way around. I don't think my 20x24 Saunders would fit. At least with the Omega, the tall column is for cropping. I think 20x24 would require, wall mount and drop table.

You should mark the center of the lens as it projects to the baseboard (use the laser from below or make a big X on a negative and project it down). Measure that distance to the column. Many 4 blade easels place the image in the geometric center. So divide the front-back dimension of the easel by two to see if there will be enough room without the easel hitting the column.

 

[eddie]

I have the same enlarger, but use a Beseler 20x24 easel. No problem with making 18x22 prints ( I like a 1 inch border all around). I’m mostly using a 135, but have used a 150, too.

 

[voceumana]

You can always change the baseboard if you need a wider/deeper space for placement of the easel.

 

[John Wiegerink]

Rodenstock Rodagon-WA 120mm f5.6 WIDE Angle enlarging lens
I use this lens often when I want to go 20X24 or larger. It allows me to go large with a minimum of enlarger column height. I have my Omega D5 wall mounted and the top of the column braced. but still do not like going any higher than I have to for vibrations sake. For my large printing I mostly use a 20X24 vacuum easel. The combination of vacuum easel and the sharp Rodenstock wide angle gives me just what I need. I just went to the big auction site and saw that one Rodenstock 120mm WA went for $147.00. Some folks there are asking much more, but if you wait it out they show up much cheaper at times. JohnW

 

[tedr1]

the crucial dimension is the distance from the lens center to the face of the pillar which is 14inches.

 

[ic-racer]

the crucial dimension is the distance from the lens center to the face of the pillar which is 14inches.

The dimensions ... 29 1/4 wide x 25 1/4 deep.

So 25.25/2 = 12.625"

I have the same enlarger, but use a Beseler 20x24 easel. No problem with making 18x22 prints

Seems like agreement.