I am interested in purchasing a replacement enlarger for my Durst M605. The De-Vere 504 appears to be a solid work-horse. There again, I suppose the new contender on the block, is the Zone IV (5X4)
Any feedback with regard to the strengths and weaknesses of these two platforms would be much appreciated.
Seems like you're going for the bigtime, Barry.
I have no personal experience with either of the two enlargers you are considering, because I have always found the 605 adequete.
However, if you have not already done so, you might find a visit to our friend www.google.com interesting.
I typed in both De-Vere 504 and Zone IV and it threw up dozens of references, and by comparison you may be able to form your own conclusions.
The stalwart amongst us most likely, I think, to give an expert opinion is Brian T - but difficult, I'm afraid, to catch when sober. Mind you,it's arguable that he probably makes more sense when well and truly pi...err...inebriated, anyway.
I hope this reply is not construed as dismissive or negative.
Steve,
Dont take any notice of Perkeo, I don't know what he is on and you certainly don't need to know.
Now the enlarger question is very simple to answer. The De Vere 504 is the best 5x4 enlarger made. An enlarger is every bit as important as a camera and just as you wouldn't put up with a camera back that leaked light or a focussing mount with slack you don't want it with an enlarger. I have owned three different 5x4 's in my time , the Besseler, the Chrone Omega and the De Vere. Steve there is just no comparision, buy the De Vere and make a life time partnership.
Now you have a Durst 605, now does your enquiry mean that you are going over to 5x4 because surely the Durst is a 6x7. If you are sticking to 6x7 then you want the 203 De Vere which I have also owned. I posted quite recently details of a 203 De Vere which about a month ago was sitting on the floor of a photographic shop here in Leeds. It had three heads, three lenses, all the voltage stabilisers , frames, masks, etc, in all about £3/4000 in excellent condition yours for £495, a steal.If you are interested give me a private mail and I'll see if it's still available.
My advice is buy the best, enlargers are unlike some cameras, they are a lifetime investment.
Regards,
Brian.
Perkeo I hope you don't think this reply is flippant.
Brian BSRIPN
So, there you have it, Barry.
Told you Brian would come up trumps. He must be on the good stuff tonight.
Offer to send him half a dozen cases of Tiger and the De Vere could be on its way to you FOB....! [img]/img/wwwthreads/wink.gif[/img]
And don't worry about him mistaking you for Steve - what can you expect....it's the...well...you know - by the bucketful nowadays, I believe.
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