Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1999/04/02

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Subject: Re: [Leica] Re: Off-subject - enlarger light source
From: Mark Rabiner <mrabiner@concentric.net>
Date: Fri, 02 Apr 1999 06:25:50 -0800

George Huczek wrote:
> 
> At 08:45 AM 02/04/99 +0100, Gerry(UK) wrote:
> >  Can someone please give me
> >advise on the relative merits of this type of head?   BTW, I already have
> >the necessary filtration for use below the lens if necessary, so will have
> >no need to purchase the filters but have had some difficulty attaching them
> >to my existing enlarger.
> >
> Yes, you will likely get quite a bit of advice on this topic.  I use both
> of the types of heads you described, so I can give you some observations
snip
>    Condenser heads will produce a grainier-looking image.  Personally, I
> like this look very much, especially when using Rodinal developer.  For the
> right type of image, prints look sharp, rugged and masculine.  (For
> portraits, especially of women, a diffusion enlarger head is usually nicer,
> to soften the image slightly.)
>    A condenser head will also show any defects in the negative very
> clearly.  Dust and scratches will show up and require a great deal of
> retouching.
snip

Also the condenser head directs a lot of heat onto the neg making
prepoping nessessary which is really no big deal once you get used to it.
Or God forbid use Glass Carriers which the small percentage of People
who use Leica or Durst enlargers are more prone to be used to.
Mark Rabiner