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View Full Version : Epson 4870 vs 3200



Mark Erickson
17-Mar-2004, 19:05
I'm looking to replace a failing Epson Perfection 2450 scanner, and a few 3200 scanners are still available at a discount. Internet rumors say that the Digital ICE implementation in the 4870 may not be very usable, so I'm trying to decide if the 4870 is worth the extra $$$ compared to a discounted 3200. Do those of you who have used both the Epson 4870 and 3200 flatbed scanners see significant difference in resolution, contrast range, or speed, or any other notable improvements?

Thanks in advance,

sanking
17-Mar-2004, 20:33
If you plan to scan primarily 4X5 negatives or slides save money and buy the discounted 3200.

But if you plan to also scan 35mm or roll film (6X4.5, 6X6, 6X7 and 6X9) negatives or slides the 4870 will give better performance. Also, the 4870 has a larger transparency area and will scan a 5X7" negative or slide in one pass (or two 4X5s) and the 3200 will not.

My main work in scanning is with 6X9 cm and 5X7" negatives and slides and for this the 4870 is much superior, in my opinion.

ICE is slow but good.

QT Luong
17-Mar-2004, 22:49
See for a 3200/4800 comparison, just a few threads below: http://largeformatphotography.info/lfforum/topic/498045.html

Jean-Marie Solichon
18-Mar-2004, 04:55
I just replaced my 2450 for a 4870. Yes the improvment is subtle with 4x5, significative with MF and huge with 35mm. Digital Ice is OK with 35mm, quite long with MF (30 to 45 minutes) and (presumably) close to unusable with larger formats. As far as I can tell there are limitations from the software; for example 6x7 scanning at 4800dpi in 48bits will not work.

Michael_3785
18-Mar-2004, 07:41
I just fell onto a thorough review (http://www.photo-i.co.uk/Reviews/interactive/Epson%204870/page_1.htm). May be worth reading.
I have got an Epson 3200 about a year ago and consider it as very good for 4x5" BW negs.
Michael