Omega D5XL Enlarger condenser

[John Conway]

It has been sitting up in the loft of my garage for years. I purchased it from a dealer many years ago to do my own printing but never actually got there. I think it is time to start thinking about printing again. Anyone use this model enlarger? Is it capable of good quality prints beyond 16x20? I remember reading that condenser enlargers work well for B&W.

[Nathan Potter]

I've used one for years (actually several). I alternate between condenser, diffusion and special designed light sources as a function of what I'm printing. Adjust the collimation and make sure the mounting is stabile. Use a top enlarging lens and make an adjustable height easel platform and you are in business.

For condenser heads and other hard light sources dust management is crucial.

Nate Potter, Austin TX.