Would be great if it had better dynamic range, higher resolution capabilities
Written: Jul 05 '01
Product Rating:
Ease of Use:
Pros: Many negative format choices, Adobe Photoshop 5 LE, firewire connectivity
Cons: 3.2 dynamic range, 2400x1200 resolution
The Bottom Line: Film size options, AdobePS5LE, firewire saves this from being average. Weak dynamic range, resolution threatens this.
Need a better scanner if you want above average (size-wise) enlargements from 35mm.
kowen's Full Review: Microtek ScanMaker 8700 Flatbed Scanner
I bought this scanner because it scans direct from the film plane-no glass to interfere with the scan. The Adobe Photoshop 5 LE software is powerful, a helpful tool with many options and features for editing and saving images.
For those not ready to drop $500 + on Photoshop 6, this is a welcome bonus.
Installation was easy-the firewire connection installed easily to my computer via simple instructions; there is an optional usb connection for those who do not have an extra slot in their computer.
My first scanner was defective, and had no instruction book; a call to technical support and a few tests led to the issue of an RMA to swap out my unit-what a relief. It did not scan consistently-it would give a full scan, then the next time it might chop off some of the image, or skewer it. I never knew what to expect.
My replacement scanner (manual included) has been consistent for every scan. After researching more about scanners and specs, I do wish this one would have a better dynamic range, and a higher optical resolution-it would be well worth the money, considering what this scanner sells for.
This scanner automatically reads the negative or slide and automatically adjusts the highlights. I have not been satisfied with any of my slide scans-although the slides that I have scanned are somewhat dense, I believe the weak dynamic range (3.2) does not help. Unless your slides are dead on as far as exposure goes or maybe a tad over exposed, you may want to stick to negative film-most are more forgiving in latitude. I have had better luck with my color negatives.
To wrap this up, I wish I would have invested more money for the better specs-I just did not know about dynamic range at the time, and I believed 2400x1200 was okay. If your 35mm negative is super sharp, this may not be a problem for a 7x10 print-some of mine are proving to be sharp-but watch out for anything larger.
If I were not allergic to darkroom chemicals, I would definitely have a wet darkroom set-up. I am restoring an old 2x3 camera so I am hoping the increased negative format size will help with sharpness and enlargements-I think it will. If you are looking to make enlargements up to 17" or so, I would invest in a higher end scanner.
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