Cheap scanner recommendation?

[Ken Grooms]

Can anyone recommend a cheap scanner for 4x5 negs/trans? I just want to make 8x10prints for now. I was hoping to spend under $300. After all, my camera and lens were only $400! Thanks.

Ken

[Norm Buchanan]

Can anyone recommend a cheap scanner for 4x5 negs/trans? I just want to make 8x10prints for now. I was hoping to spend under $300. After all, my camera and lens were only $400! Thanks.

Ken

Hi Ken,

Perhaps you could find a used /refurbished Epson 4990. It is a good flatbed scanner and I think they are about $500 new.

Norm

[Jim Jones]

I use an old Epson Perfection 2450 Photo for up to 4x5 negatives. It does quite well for 8x10 prints. Even scans from 35mm are good at 5x7. If you shop for a used one, make sure the three negative holders come with it. A later Epson like Norm suggested should have a better dynamic range for transparancies, better resolution for 35mm, and probably better software.

[Adam Kavalunas]

I second the recommendation on the 2450. Just bought a used one on ebay for $59! What a steal. It captures a great amount of detail, although the dynamic range is not spectacular as is the case for all flatbeds. But like you, i only plan on using these scans for 8x10's, and for web posting, if i want bigger prints, i'll drum scan.

[65Galaxie]

The 2450 will be way more than sufficient for 8x10's from 4x5 film. Will make great 16x20's.

[Ken Grooms]

I found an Epson 2450 ... but it does not have a 4x5 film adapter/holder .

Where can one find a 4x5 film holder ?

[65Galaxie]

Probably for an 8x10, just laying the film on the glass will give sufficient resolution even if the ideal focus isn't achieved.

[na goodman]

You can still get the 4490 for $199. Which is a great price for that scanner.

[Frank Petronio]

Ken, hold out for the Epson 4990. The price difference between one and a three year old scanner is going to be peanuts. And you would have to spend $600 or so to get the next barely noticable upgrade in performance.

[Ken Grooms]

I just placed an order for the 4990. It should arrive by Friday.

Thanks, guys!