Small format with Omega 4x5 condenser?

[awldune]

I have an old D2 with the exchangeable condensers (not the VC head) and the condensers for 4x5 only.

Can I use this with an 80mm lens for 6x6 and 645? Or do I really need the smaller condenser set?

I understand that exposure times will be longer, but are there other downsides to this setup?

Thanks,
Sam

[Brian C. Miller]

There isn't a down-side, as far as even light distribution. The print time would be the same as for a 4x5, it would just be a bit faster using the smaller condensers.

[ic-racer]

Probably not. The focal length of the lens and the condensers and the magnification ratio all need to match up for even light distribution.

[Len Middleton]

Related to ic's comment, there is a great article on the Durst USA site on different light heads, especially condenser heads: http://www.durst-pro-usa.com/world_i...ular_light.htm

Doing a little research, before I bring the "wee one" (L184 ) home...

[awldune]

ic-racer, is the idea that the condensers are designed to be a specific distance from the enlarging lens?

What would happen, exactly? Falloff toward the edges of the print?

[Roger Cole]

I've printed 35mm on my DII/V when I've forgotten to move the condensor in the head after printing 4x5. Just like Brian said, there is no down side other than slower printing speed. It will work fine. Exposure times will be longer than the same sized print from 4x5, though, because the magnification factor is a lot less.

[ic-racer]

ic-racer, is the idea that the condensers are designed to be a specific distance from the enlarging lens?

What would happen, exactly? Falloff toward the edges of the print?

Exactly. So the things that affect the distance to the enlarger lens are magnification and focal length. Yes, there will be un-evenness if mismatched. Best to check this with the lens stopped down (as almost all lenses have their own hot-spot when wide open).

Also, as Brian points out, the smaller frame of 35mm can still get even illumination with less than optimum condenser setup, so some combinations you may have to just try-and-see.

[Bill_1856]

If you're not using the correct condensers matched with the focal length of your lens, the best solution is to have a local glass or advertising company cut a piece of frosted glass or plastic and put it in place of the condenser glass.

[boswald]

Just use the longest focal length lens that will give the mag. you want, and it will match
up pretty well.

[Roger Cole]

Sigh. The OP should just try it and let us know.

There won't be any problem with unevenness going this direction, just longer exposure. The opposite would not be true - trying to print 4x5 using 35mm or medium format condensers WOULD cause unevenness, specifically more exposure in the central area.