Superpan 200 and BTTB-developer

idamia · May 10, 2016

Hi everyone,

since last weekend I'm a proud owner of a Bronica SQ. I haven't shot MF since 15 years (back then with a Kiev60).
As a test roll I shot Rollei Superpan 200 and developed it in Barry Thornton Two Bath (BTTB) developer at 18°C for 5.5min + 5.5min. I have a chemistry background, so mixing components myself is no problem. I already had some experience with BTTB in combination with Tmax400 and Neopan400.

I'm quite satisfied with the results. There's little to read on the web about Superpan 200. So, I'm curious about your experiences...

Here are some sample shots of the first roll:

randyB · May 10, 2016

very nice.

idamia · May 10, 2016

thanks, randyB

baachitraka · May 10, 2016

In the past I have used BTTB but during winter times bringing the temps to 20°C was always boring, eventually switched to single bath.

Recently mixed PC-TEA and curious how APX 100 goes with it.

Nice shots and contrast.

destroya · May 10, 2016

its the same emulsion as rollei retro 400s. i found the true speed in most developers to be between 120 and 200. my favorite has been beutler 1+1+10 for 9.5 minutes. very high sharpness and acutance, great tonality and lowers the contrast a touch as this film can be high contrast at times. yeh, it does give larger than normal grain, but i get great sharp enlargements from 35mm up to 11x14. with 6x7, no grain even in 20x24 enlargements. do a google search for either film and you will find quite a few posts about them.

idamia · May 10, 2016

I've already heard about superpan being the same emulsion as the retro 400s. But is this really a confirmed fact?

I my case the grain turned out to be quite fine.

By the way: I shot it @200ASA

rubbernglue · May 10, 2016

I really like superpan and have used it for a few years. I often like a bit more contrast so I tend to shoot and develop it as 400 in r09 and I am very pleased with the result!

idamia · May 11, 2016

I will surely order more rolls of superpan.

The prizing is quite attractive here in Germany: € 3.80 per roll (120)
For 135-shooters: 30.5m (100ft) cost € 44,-

scheimfluger_77 · May 11, 2016

Plus this film has extended red sensitivity, if you are into that sort of thing.

idamia · May 11, 2016

@scheimfluger_77: Yes, I know. But this is not crucial for me.

baachitraka · May 11, 2016

May I know, how does it compare with RPX 400?

idamia · May 11, 2016

I have not shot RPX400 yet. But I've ordered two rolls together with the superpan. I'll report ASAP about the results.

idamia · May 11, 2016

One more comment:

I pre-washed the film with tap water and was shocked about the colour of the outpoured water.
It was really dark (black).
Interestingly, the subsequently used developer (bath 1) kept absolutely colourless.

Superpan 200 and BTTB-developer

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