For a normal sized darkroom, a Beseler MXT or VXL enlarger with the 8x10 conversion works pretty well. Most dedicated 8x10 enlargers are enormous, tall, heavy beasts that often require more space than one would have in a typical darkroom.
I don't believe that 8x10 is always more expensive than 4x5. Most people will shoot much less film than with 4x5 and the whole process is slower. I only use a few lenses for 8x10 but have many for 4x5 and was always looking for the next one.
The 8x10 enlarger is the commitment and the money though. You will have to be patient and/or willing to drive a long way to find what you need. There is a simple knock-off for the Beseler 8x10 conversion out there. If you are handy, you could make that yourself and rig up an 8x10 LED light source. That would be an adventure in itself. The only LED adaptations I have seen are for 4x5.
Bookmarks