Cold cathode heads and Multigrade

D

David M

Very Active Poster
Registered User
Joined
Jan 29, 2017
Messages
3,079
In an earlier thread we discussed using non-dedicated heads for printing with Multigrade paper. I mentioned that a cold cathode head (De Vere in my case) could be used but Ilford advised the permanent addition of a yellow filter for improved performance.

This is Ilford’s information sheet. The yellow filter is mentioned on Page 4 and there’s a good deal of other useful information on the other three pages.

 
My old De Vere cold cathode head was fine with Multigrade, but I think the diffuser itself had yellowed over the years. I remember noticing that newer cold cathode heads gave a much colder (bluer) output.

Ian
 
That sounds reasonable. Ilford's advice seems to be aimed at people who want to use the ends of the contrast spectrum. I suspect that very few of your negs need the extremes.

I found it interesting that they explain the function of the fabled Third Layer. I've heard other explanations in the past. Although "layer" is a convenient term for explanations, they're not layers at all. No doubt you know this already.
 
I have this really wonderful old Zone VI VC cold light head on my even older Omega D-2. As Zone VI has gone to business heaven, I rather think my 'lifetime' warranty will not be honored. To that end, I have been exploring backup plans should this head finally bite the dust. Current state:

  • A traditional Omega condenser head with above-the-lens filtration. (In hand, for use when/as needed.)
  • The seductively nice Heiland VC head. (A matter of lots of money.)
  • Building my own. (Under consideration - parts appear widely available and this isn't that tough to do. The hard part is the mixing chamber to get even illumination.
 
You could use the Intrepid head, cheap as chips. I've no idea if they are any good though, and have no affiliation.

Ian
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top