Using Cachet Expo G

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I've bought a fair amount of Cachet Expo G and am having trouble getting the excellent results usually attributed to the stuff. What kind of developer do people use? I've been using a couple common amidol formulas and also "130" (metol/glycin) with quite underwhelming results. I guess I should mention that I use a cold head. One other thing: Cachet touts the way Expo G takes selenium. What dilutions/times do people use? Thanx. -jeff buckels (albuquerque nm)

-- Jeff Buckels (jeffbuck@swcp.com), March 27, 2001

Answers

I did a short test bout with Cachet Expo G a few years ago and found it to perform well in Dektol, Bromophen and Selectol Soft. However, I simply could not get the paper to change tone in selenium toner, even at strong dilutions and longer times (It only turned bluer after about 30 minutes in the toner), so I don't use it now, my preferences being Oriental Seagull G, Zone VI Brilliant (which I believe is an Ilford product) and now, Bergger NB. I have also heard that Expo G is no longer being manufactured and has been replaced with a warm tone paper (not sure on this though). Sorry I couldn't be more help. Regards, ;^D)

-- Doremus Scudder (ScudderLandreth@compuserve.com), March 28, 2001.

According to Calumet, variable contrast Zone VI brilliant is made by Ilford, but the graded product is not. My best guess, based on the "Made in EU" marking on the package, is Kentmere.

-- Sal Santamaura (bc_hill@qwestinternet.net), March 28, 2001.

I like it in dektol and selectol soft... but I've never tried to intensify the selenium effect with a stong solution, just in my standard 1:50 superstition dilution(i got spooked by some early RC so now everything gets it). Let me point out something I've noticed... when my diffusor is in I hate Expo G... it's flat.... but with straight condensors I love the G2 expo(except for that orangey base). I haven't bought any in a couple of years now. I began to use Zone IV brilliant graded papers instead.

-- trib (linhof6@hotmail.com), March 29, 2001.

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