Omega colorheads

[d.s.]

How many versions are there of dichro color heads for Omega D enlargers? What are their differences, pros and cons?

I'm thinking about getting a used one for a D2. Use would be for dialing in contrast settings for black and white papers. Is there anything that one should be aware of when looking at Omega color heads?

Thanks for your learned help.

dee

[John Cook]

I have always understood that there is one color head for each enlarger model.

The one which came with my D5 requires a combination low-voltage power supply, voltage stabilizer, electronic timer, called a Chromegatrol.

I also believe that large adjustments in these filter settings require a change in print exposure.

[Witold Grabiec]

I would suggest these sites:

http://www.omegasatter.com/ - you can contact manufacturer as the site thas no info on older models, except for some still availabe parts

http://www.classic-enlargers.com/ - considered Omega enlarger gurus

[Wayne Crider]

Here's (http://www.khbphotografix.com/omega/index.html) your colorhead choices.

They come on Ebay every once in awhile but are priced much higher thru dealers. I gave up and decided to go digital instead. It's nice to work at your leisure and get it done whenever.

[Witold Grabiec]

I'm quite sure that the head mount has not changed throughout the D-line (D5500 might be an exception but I've never worked with this one). Site reference given by Wayne also often sells stuff on eBay. Obviousely they are usually not the least expensive option.

At any rate, these heads show up on eBay at different price levels and often are best buys if purchased with an enlarger. A day or two ago, a D2 with Chromega II complete with lenses went for ~$400.

I've worked with a D5 and Chromega II set up. As I said in another thread, I no longer see any difference between a cold light and a diffusion head. With a color head it is probably the best price/convenience option for VC printing these days. VC dedicated heads are better for auto-adjusting light output so you can make changes without re-testing. However, I must say that for quality printing you will need to get your filtration right before the final print anyway. While a Color head may require exposure adjustment (all depends on level of filtration change), it should be part of the test printing. At the same time you get the convenience of infinite contrast adjustment on a budget.

All in all, be it Omega branded or most other color diffusion head, it should provide excellent results.