I have a V700. I scan 45 and 810. If I want to move up, what is the next level I can upgrade to? I don't have huge space and much money.
I have a V700. I scan 45 and 810. If I want to move up, what is the next level I can upgrade to? I don't have huge space and much money.
It costs quite a bit to get more. The next step would be a used professional flatbed or a used drum scanner. While there are certainly bargains out there, there are also money pits. Service and parts on these things are incredibly expensive.
Before getting a new scanner, are you getting the most out of your scanner? For example, have you done tests to determine the best height above the scanning bed? This can make a huge improvement. In addition, using a DIY scanning plate is really the only way to get a flat negative, and hence a scan that's equally sharp over it's entire surface. The best way to mount to the glass sheet is with drum scanning fluid and mylar. I recommend Prazio supplies, as their mounting fluid is easier to use with a flatbed than Kami, but Kami is perfectly usable. Odds are you'd have to do these things with a professional scanner, especially a drum scanner, and so it's not money wasted if you decide later to buy a better scanner.
You'd think that there would be a logical progression, where there would be progressively better scanners for progressively higher prices. You'd be wrong. The gap between consumer flatbeds and professional flatbeds is huge, especially from a money standpoint.
Your best bet, if you really want to do it, is to buy a used drum scanner. Much less money than a new pro. flatbed, but even a "desktop" drum scanner takes up a surprising amount of room. That is, they take up an entire desktop by themselves. And they generate a lot of heat, and make a lot of noise. Also, they have their own set of learning curves and like everything else, it takes some practice to climb the learning curves to get good at scanning.
What most people seem to do is use their consumer flatbed for proofing and for the web. When they find an image that really needs it, they send it out for a professional flatbed scan or a drum scan. Something to consider.
Bruce Watson
You could consider fluid mounting it in the glass holder using Prazio anti-Newton spray or oil. Kami (from Aztek) would probably be good too. It's the same stuff used to mount film for a drum scan.
Have you considered getting a Variable Height Mounting Station from BetterScanning ? They make a model for the V700.
I use one on my 4990, and I don't get Newton's rings any more. It also lets you mask off the rest of the scanner area, but most important, it lets you adjust the height so that you get the best focus possible from your unit. You can see an example here.
You might consider it an upgrade, but at a much lower price.
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