Zone VI enlarger w/vc CL head- thoughts? suggestions?

tequilabong · Mar 31, 2009

Hello......who uses the Zone VI enlarger with the VC head? I"m considering purchasing this unit......Would love any comments on who has used this...........

Thanks.....

Gordo

mike c · Mar 31, 2009

I've got the zone VI mod. 1.It does not have the vc head though,that would be great.With the head I have I'm restricted to using graded paper. The model 2 have some improvements . Never used the vc head but would like to have one.I like mine as I have the compensating timer .Steve Anchell wrote a write up on this enlarger in the July 1993 issue of Camera and darkroom.

mike c · Mar 31, 2009

Gordo, I do have some complaints. The large wheel on the side that rises and lowers the head gets loose, the set screws loosen up. Also I can't get the bellows the retract enough the use a 50mm lens,no big deal for I do not use 35mm. I would assume that was corrected on the model 2. Also focusing is awkward using the lens focus knob so I use the height adjustment to fine focus,which is better the neg will not pop on you.
mike

edpierce · Apr 10, 2009

I use a zone vi vc enlarger and I love it. It does take some getting used to, as it doesn't act quite the same as other vc enlargers I've used. Nor is it quite like using filters.

The tricky part is learning how to adjust the contrast while keeping the exposure the same.

Other than that, this enlarger is very well made. I've never had a problem using my 50mm lens.

mike c · Apr 10, 2009

Edpierce, do you have the older model 1 or the newer model 2, I have a little problem with my 50mm lens. I've got the older model 2, and I like it very much with graded papers.

mike c.

edpierce · Apr 10, 2009

I've had both types; currently using the type 2.

mike c · Apr 10, 2009

I meant to say I have the type 1. edpiere did you have any problems using the 50mm one your type 1.

Keith Pitman · Apr 28, 2009

I find that the Z6 VC enlarger is a "slow printer" -- meaning that exposure times are long. I'm currently using a LPL 4500 with dichloric head. I that the LPL is a better enlarger overall, a very fast printer, and more compact. One of the significant advantages of the Z6, however, is that it is extremely easy to align, an attribute not shared by the LPL.

ron mcelroy · Apr 30, 2009

I have a Zone VI Type 2 enlarger with the VC head. I mostly split filter print using VC papers and a RH Designs StopClock timer. It took me a while to learn to print with this setup since before I only used a regular coldlite and graded papers. The enlarger is built like a tank, but I wouldn't recomend it unless you found a screaming deal. There is no support for parts and since this enlarger wasn't built in large numbers there aren't many used ones out there to scavage. I would recomend something that had a wider following when produced.

Anscojohn · May 1, 2009

Mine is set up but I have not used it. One accessory I bought was the focus extension. I put the handle from a jalousie window on it to make it easier to tweak.
I have to start proofing negs and hope that will help me get the hang of it. BTW, it has been new in the box for almost 15 years. I bought it new. Long story. It's a Type II.
Say, anyone want a good buy on a brand new xlong column? It's too long for my ceiling--even with the work surfaces lowed; and my wife won't let me cut a hole in the living room floor up above.

Zone VI enlarger w/vc CL head- thoughts? suggestions?

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