Opinions on Beseler Printmaker 67 VC (Variable Contrast) Enlarger

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Hi, I just found this discussion site, and I'm looking to start a darkroom of my own. I've kind of got my heart set on a Beseler, and I've checked for the 23 and 67 dichroic models on eBay. I just noticed that a new 67 VC model is in my desired price range, but I'd like some feedback as to whether or not this is something that I'd potentially outgrow quickly. Also, if someone could help me understand if the filters in the 67 VC are comparable to the other models, that'd be great. I have been using a school lab for about 5 months now, printing only B&W so far. Any help is appreciated!

-- Kristen Johnson (kristen500@sanbrunocable.com), May 16, 2002

Answers

I used a Beseler 67 - I believe it was the original model in the series from about 1978 - for 20 years. It was great. Nothing ever went wrong with it, except of course replacing the bulb maybe 3 times. The VC model has the internal color filters calibrated for multigrade/pollycontrast papers. You can do the same thing with the color head, though, and still have the option of doing color. I didn't outgrow mine until I started shooting 6x7 (it could handle 6x6, but 6x7 was taxing its limits).

-- Tom Raymondson (rayson@sbcglobal.net), May 18, 2002.

The 67C series (discontinued) and the 67 Printmaker series are different enlargers. They share the same heads, but the enlarger column is quite different. The old 67C had one of the sturdiest columns of any enlarger made, but the Printmaker has a very narrow and weak column. The 67XLC and 67XLD, while not the same column as the original 67C, has a much sturdier column than the Printmaker. My recommendation is to stay away from the Beseler “Printmaker” enlargers, especially considering the number of good quality used enlargers that are available.

-- Michael Feldman (mfeldman@qwest.net), May 19, 2002.

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