Thanks Rob - this is food for thought. I read that the Coolscan III has a maximum output of only 8 bits? Does that have much effect on the image?
Yes and no. 16bit is better for editing but virtually all final output is in 8bit so you have to convert to 8bit anyway if you want to print digitally.
The question is whether my scanner gives you enough pixels from a neg to print at the size you want to print at. For 10x8 print yes. For a full 20x16 then you would probably need to print at 200dpi so not the best quality but OK. Really depends on what you want it for and quality level you are seeking.
But note that no consumer grade scanner is going to get the best out of any negative. Only a drum or highend flatbed scanner can do that.