The state of film processors in 2020

[test_realm]

Hi everyone,
It's been a while since this topic has been explored. What are the best options for either auto or manual film processing devices these days. I recall there was the Filmomat which looked like a huge fishtank, the Stark SST4 which seems to fly under the radar and of course the Photo-Therm (not supported any more) and the Jobo options.

What are peoples experiences these days, any new ones i should be looking at? I process mostly the same process and just push or pull depending on the day.

 

[odell1618photography]

I have a Jobo and two as backups. The setup time to get everything to temp is typically 45 mins to an hour.
I've never found anything more simple and easy to use than stainless reels for black and white.
I typically develop two rolls at a time, 35 or 120 and have working prints in an hour. I use a sous vide type water bath.
I do use the Jobo for color developing.

 

[M Carter]

Not as extreme as maybe you're thinking, but I've moved from Rodinal to pretty much all-DDX for B&W now. Stuff's expensive, got an old Beseler motor so rotary processing 4x5 sheets comes out to 12.5ml per sheet, a huge savings and the whole process is much much nicer than my old Combi-Plan.

 

[Sirius Glass]

I use a Jobo for black & white and color for 35mm, 120 and 4"x5". I tried trays and many tanks before I learned that the cost of the Jobo 3010 Expert Drum is worth it because I get consistently great results.

 

[EdSawyer]

Photo-therm is still a viable option. As I recall, Jerry (the guy who supported them @ Phototherm) is doing freelance support and parts supply for them now.

 

[nbagno]

Midtone machines are developing a new processor. Not yet available but getting close to a functional prototype.
http://midtonemachines.com/ And as you probably already know, you can buy new Jobo processors.

 

[BMbikerider]

I have a JOBO CPE2 which is at least 20yrs old and now looking a bit scruffy, but I have an even older one where the tank sprang a leak, it has been repaired but it will be kept for spare parts should the motor on the one I use pack in. These pieces of equipment whilst the outer construction seems flimsy are in fact very well made and robust. If only JOBO had made their current model just a bit cheaper.