I have a Microtek ArtixScan 4500t dedicated film scanner that I bought in fall 2003 for a reduced price, apparently surplus. The 4500t scans up to 4x5 at about 2500 dpi with an advertised Dmax of 3.9. I think the 4500t was first marketed in 2001 at a price of several thousand dollars, and I think Polaroid sold the same scanner as a Sprintscan 45. I used the 4500t to scan 4x5 transparencies in order to print up to 16x20.
About a year after I bought the scanner it quit working. I've contacted Microtek about having the scanner repaired but really haven't pursued it yet, so I don't know how much the repair will cost. Nevertheless, given the advance in scanner technology since 2001, should I forego repairing the 4500t and instead purchase a new Epson 4990 flatbed? I understand that the 4990 is not in the same class as a dedicated film scanner, but I was wondering if the advance in scanner technology since 2001 compensates for that. Please spout your opinions :-).
Thanks.
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