Microtek i900 for scanning 4X5?

[Steve Hoffmann]

I also scan 6X9, which makes the 1800f minimal in resolution for larger prints. The 1800f made much cleaner scans than my 2450 (better Dmax). In any case, whatever the claimed resolution between the Epson 2450 and the Microtek 1800f (that I got to demo), the 1800f lagged behind my 2450 considerably in image detail resolving ability. Sandra, if you are reading this post, do you have any experience with either the Epson 2450, 3200 or 4870? If so, how does your Microtek i900 compare to these Epson scanners in your opinion?

[Jeffrey Zweig]

Hi Steve,

The major difference between the 1800f and the i900 in my opinion is the difference in the level of transparency scans. Reflective images are marginally better with the 1800f in my opinion, and if I were only scanning reflective I would probably save the money and go with a i900 as it has Digital ICE, etc. The optics on the 1800f produce greater depth than the i900 when scanning slides and negatives. You scan large format (6x9) which makes it tough to find something that will scan high resolution images with. The 2500f would probably be the next step up for you.

Both Jeffrey and I have worked with the Epson 4870 Pro and have nothing but positive things to say about it. The reflective scans are on par with the i900 and I would try it out for yourself. We purchased the i900 because Microtek has the advantage due to its glassless scanning bed. I believe Microtek has a patent on this because no one else has adopted this feature. I didn't get to play around with it much but I would imagine that the 4870 would produce newton rings since it lacks this feature, but someone with one might chime in and let us know.

Personally I believe it comes down to personal preference. When you examine the Accord and the Camry they look similiar and you'll have people from both sides telling you why one is superior over the other. For us, we just like Microtek as they have been good to us in the past. The glassless scanning feature itself gave us the one up on why we bought it alone. If you are scanning transparent materials though I might recommend the i900 over it. If you were scanning strictly reflective then the 4870 might be a great option!