Which 4x5 enlarger

Tim Stapp · Dec 11, 2018

I currently have a Beseler CB-7 with condenser head that I picked up 3 years ago for the large sum of $20. I'm currently using the Ilford under lens filters with it. With the 150 mm lens on the desk height table that it's on, I can only print to 11x14 before the head hits the ceiling.

Currently, there is locally (3-1/2 hour drive each way) a Beseler 45V-XL with the 45S Dichro head for a reasonable price (although substantially more than I paid for the CB-7).

Would this be a worth while upgrade or not. I would like to start printing RA-4 in the future.

ic-racer · Dec 11, 2018

I like diffusion light sources. Of course to print larger with a table-top enlarger that hits the ceiling, one needs to lower the table.

mike c · Dec 11, 2018

There is also a number of good 135mm lens that cover 4x5, might get more enlargement and with lowering the table also. I'm not familiar with the CB7 enlarger so just guessing.

Tim Stapp · Dec 11, 2018

I suspect with either enlarger, I need to build a shorter table. A 135 mm lens might help as well. The 150 came with the enlarger. I have two Beseler 23C-II and the CB-7. I have each set up for different formats (35mm / 6x7 / and 4x5). If I do decide to go with the 45V-XL, I may decide to go with just one. But, having the luxury of three set ups is compelling. In storage, I also have a Beseler 67 with color head. But, given that the three enlargers that I now have set up utilize the same lens/lens board sets has it's advantage. The biggest drawback to my current set up is using the under lens filters. I'm not sure that I'm losing any image quality, but I'd like to eventually start printing color.

Tim Stapp · Dec 11, 2018

Also, I question how reliable is the Beseler 45S Dichro head? Link to the listing is here: https://detroit.craigslist.org/okl/pho/d/enlargers-for-sale/6753113561.html

As an aside, what is shown in photo #4? It almost appears as a 4x5 camera set up as a copy camera.

mshchem · Dec 11, 2018

Older 45S heads usually have timing issues. The CB was the Beseler flagship. I have 3 Beseler 45 MXT enlargers, the baseboard is designed to be able to drop. The 45V XL can easily be mounted to a wall with an accessory bracket.

Before driving to get the 45S head, you need to confirm, that, when the lamp is energized, it lights instantly. The majority of 45S heads made before (approximately ) 1999 have an opto-isolator on the circuit board that goes bad. This causes random delays in timing of the lamp. I've repaired 3 or 4. All the older ones I've seen develop this problem. If the head has been purchased new since 2000 it's probably ok.
I use the Beseler Universal 45 heads. Separate controller for each head. One is for color, the other two have VC controllers, these heads can be troublesome as well.

I suspect that, like me, you may have too many enlargers already .
Best Regards Mike

mshchem · Dec 11, 2018

Tim Stapp said:
Also, I question how reliable is the Beseler 45S Dichro head? Link to the listing is here: https://detroit.craigslist.org/okl/pho/d/enlargers-for-sale/6753113561.html

As an aside, what is shown in photo #4? It almost appears as a 4x5 camera set up as a copy camera.

That's a heck of a lot of good stuff for cheap. Looks like a roll easel on the base of the Beseler. You're taking a chance posting that here, someone may beat you to it.
The only way you will know is to try it. 150 bucks for the whole enlarger with lenses and carriers is a steal. The head can be repaired if it's faulty, it may be ok

btaylor · Dec 11, 2018

That 45V XL is a sweet machine. I would like one, but my two 45 MXT's works just fine so no reason to buy another 4x5! I have a couple of the 45S heads, one as a spare. I have occasional issues with the primary one, but moving the boards around inside the head seems to bring it back to life each time. That of course is why I picked up the spare, which works-- they can be had very cheaply if you keep your eye out for awhile on the 'Bay of forums. I hope I don't lose the opto-isolator, sounds like it is very hard to source or substitute. You can always swap the 45S head inexpensively for one of the older dichro models or the Minolta45 head easily. Go for it!

mshchem · Dec 11, 2018

Looks like a unheated damp place beware mildew. Looks like a lot of professional equipment. I can see the feet of a huge heavy camera stand. The tripods are probably professional stuff. Film holders etc. If you go to get it take a roll of cash and a pickup truck. And maybe a body guard

Tim Stapp · Dec 11, 2018

I suspect that, like me, you may have too many enlargers already .
Best Regards Mike[/QUOTE]

In the past few years, enlargers have been like stray cats: they keep following me home in darkroom lots that I've purchased. I've actually given a few away just to eliminate large clutter -

I may just keep what I've got, look for a 135 mm lens and if/when I decide to start printing RA4 get some color printing filters from Freestyle.

Tim Stapp · Dec 11, 2018

I'm thinking about it. The listing has been up for over 3 weeks. I may be able to negotiate price. Regarding dampness: In Michigan, most basements are heated to a degree; given that the furnace is usually located there. My garage has more dampness than my basement.

Regarding the roll easel, I wondered if it were situated on two identical gas grills or what it might be. That might be handy or not. In the case of the roll of cash, that will be in possession of "She who must be obeyed." Glock, S&W or Colt may have to suffice. I am in Michigan. Even though it is located in the Metro Detroit area, all of mine are legal and registered .

Interestingly, I have a friend in Ft Wayne, IN that refuses to purchase anything off of CL because of the threat of a theft. But my daughter in Indianapolis has no issues. I've never had a problem here, but I do communicate a great deal before the deal is consummated. My first 4x5 camera was purchased on Ebay from a local seller. We met in a parking lot equal distance between us and have subsequent dealings since without issue. Caveat Emptor.

Tim Stapp · Dec 11, 2018

The wife's new dishwasher may be put on hold for a pay period. I just have to convince her why I need it now. "But baby, a deal like this doesn't come along that often!"

MattKing · Dec 11, 2018

IMHO, the likelihood of someone using large format darkroom equipment to entice people with cash for robbery purposes is pretty small.
If the add was for a laptop or Canon 5D III, I wouldn't consider touching it!

Tim Stapp · Dec 11, 2018

MattKing said:
IMHO, the likelihood of someone using large format darkroom equipment to entice people with cash for robbery purposes is pretty small.
If the add was for a laptop or Canon 5D III, I wouldn't consider touching it!

I agree with this. Years ago, there was a posting for a D700 for an unbelievable price. Interestingly, the same posting was put on locations across many states; not adjoining.

I did call on it and was told that it had been sold. I suspect that it was a code for some type of drug deal setup.

Tim Stapp · Dec 11, 2018

Everything on the listing has my interest. The "unknown enlarger" photo has my curiosity (photo #4 in the listing). Copy camera set up turned upside down???

removed account4 · Dec 11, 2018

Tim Stapp said:
Everything on the listing has my interest. The "unknown enlarger" photo has my curiosity (photo #4 in the listing). Copy camera set up turned upside down???

doesn't look like an enlarger but a camera
it looks like an upside down 4x5 camera with
a polaroid 545i back attached to it..

Tim Stapp · Dec 11, 2018

The camera stand may just be worth the price? This looks like an inheritance or an estate sale purchase. I make take the suggestion and go there and make an offer for everything. I don't really "need" any of it, but sometimes I get to lusting (GAS).

Tim Stapp · Dec 11, 2018

jnanian said:
doesn't look like an enlarger but a camera
it looks like an upside down 4x5 camera with
a polaroid 545i back attached to it..

You may be correct John. I did see a few holders in another photo that appeared to be 4x5.

removed account4 · Dec 11, 2018

Tim Stapp said:
You may be correct John. I did see a few holders in another photo that appeared to be 4x5.

yeah at 2nd look you can actually see the lens behind the braket for the front standard
and the polaroid back is exactly like mine
id be careful what you buy from this guy
he might be selling stuff called " doodads" and "thingamabobs"

Rick A · Dec 11, 2018

Tim Stapp said:
I currently have a Beseler CB-7 ... With the 150 mm lens on the desk height table that it's on, I can only print to 11x14 before the head hits the ceiling.
.

You're going to have the same issue with the new enlarger, you may not even get to fit on the same work table with an extended column.

Tim Stapp · Dec 11, 2018

id be careful what you buy from this guy
he might be selling stuff called " doodads" and "thingamabobs" [/QUOTE]

I'd be more interested in "thingamajigs."

Tim Stapp · Dec 11, 2018

Rick A said:
You're going to have the same issue with the new enlarger, you may not even get to fit on the same work table with an extended column.

I've thought of that. I have already decided to fabricate a shorter stand. If it comes with a 135mm lens, that will help. Still, I've decided that a lower stand has to be made.

mshchem · Dec 11, 2018

Tim Stapp said:
I've thought of that. I have already decided to fabricate a shorter stand. If it comes with a 135mm lens, that will help. Still, I've decided that a lower stand has to be made.

I operate under the assumption that someday I'm going to need it. That enlarger has a lot less 50 year old wiring than the CB. Buy everything. Wave 200 bucks at the person and bring someone to help you load it.
Leave the guns at home, you will end up selling them to buy more darkroom stuff. If the iso is bad in the colorhead I have a couple of the OEM parts. I used a Dichro 45s for 15 years for color and VC it's a great head. The enlarger looks like it has an aftermarket negative carrier in place, make sure it will take normal carriers . You will figure out the low ceiling .

Tim Stapp · Dec 11, 2018

mshchem: Thanks, I'm really thinking about picking this up. I'm capable of replacing components on PC boards, if necessary. Regarding the guns. they are only used to put holes in targets. I'd rather shoot wildlife with a 150-500mm lens than with one of my target guns. Additionally, I can do it year round without disrupting their normal life (nor ending it).

Regarding "the assumption that someday I'm going to need it:" I'm a field service technician covering a 3 state area. I have at least a duplicate of everything that I might need on my service vehicle. Someday, I will need it!

Now, I just have to convince the "SWMBO" that I need it

Tim Stapp · Dec 11, 2018

Off to bed. 4:30 am comes way to early

Which 4x5 enlarger

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