Want to Buy WTB Durst Sigma or Kodak HR500

ilikecameras1010 · Feb 24, 2021

Looking for a commercial film scanner that can do 120 film at high speed. I like the idea of having something different than the Noritsu or Frontier, even if it will be a challenge. I know what I'm getting myself into and I know it won't come cheap! Looking for any of the following:

-Durst Sigma
-Kodak HR500
-Any of the more obscure models, like Konica

I would consider a machine which is embedded in a printer/processor but only if it's inexpensive and not too big.

NortheastPhotographic · Feb 25, 2021

https://cresimaging.com/rollfilmflatbeddrumscanners.html

There are a number of each for sale right now. Cres is a reliable dealer.

ilikecameras1010 · Feb 25, 2021

Been in touch with Craig already! Bought my minilab through him as well; highly recommended! I am trying very hard to buy one or both of the Sigmas listed in NE area but apparently the seller has gone incommunicado and CRES cannot reach them.

ilikecameras1010 · Feb 25, 2021

I posted without searching enough! Looks like a perfect match...

https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/fs-nyc-manhattan-imacon-848-kodak-hr500.181842/

NortheastPhotographic · Feb 25, 2021

With the Sigma's the issue most are having is that the rollers are breaking down and causing issues on film. Unlike Noritsu, you can't just order a new set. You really want to have the opportunity to test the units. On paper they should be better than a Frontier SP3000, but lack of support and the roller issue are a real concern.

Lachlan Young · Feb 25, 2021

NortheastPhotographic said:
With the Sigma's the issue most are having is that the rollers are breaking down and causing issues on film.

Are they a special material, or something that a specialist roller repair/ re-covering company could deal with? Other than that, how do you find the Sigma to use on a day-in-day-out basis?

NortheastPhotographic · Feb 25, 2021

Lachlan Young said:
Are they a special material, or something that a specialist roller repair/ re-covering company could deal with? Other than that, how do you find the Sigma to use on a day-in-day-out basis?

I was never able to obtain one. I learned a lot while trying to however, and I know two people who use them. I really wish I had a lab scanner that did 4x5, and an automatic 120 transport scanner with Fuji image intelligence...but otoh I’ve found the Noritsu has exceeded my expectations. It’s incredibly fast and the color I’m getting is great imho.

ilikecameras1010 · Mar 9, 2021

Well the seller who posted a classified seems to have gotten cold feet. I am still in the market for a scanner, if anyone knows of a Sigma or HR500 owner who could be convinced to sell

ilikecameras1010 · Nov 10, 2021

A quick update, for anyone who comes across this thread in the future. I did manage to get a Sigma 45 plus from CRES and have been using it for about 6 months in a commercial environment.

It's not perfect, the software and configuration options leave a lot to be desired, but is capable of exceptional results under ideal conditions. Limited parts and service remain available from Durst USA, and the service manuals I have are quite comprehensive. It's not too hard to take apart and put back together. The rollers on my unit are OK but if (and when) they eventually go I don't think it will be an impossible task to locate or manufacture a suitable replacement.

I would love to hear from any other Sigma users out there in the wild, it's a glorious machine and there aren't many others around.

NortheastPhotographic · Nov 11, 2021

Lucky guy! I have not managed to find one. There is a friend I know with one who keeps saying he 'might' sell it to me...just waiting on him hah.

Want to Buy WTB Durst Sigma or Kodak HR500

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