Tim Gilbert, inventor of my favorite 4x5 processing system, the SP-445, now has the 5x7 version up on Kickstarter:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects...cessing-system
Tim Gilbert, inventor of my favorite 4x5 processing system, the SP-445, now has the 5x7 version up on Kickstarter:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects...cessing-system
The prototypes have arrived: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects.../posts/1741610
Here's a comparison to the SP-445:
I might consider this if it would take six (or eight) sheets.
Not affiliated with this Kickstarter, but having a 4x5" version of this I was one of the people asking for the 5x7" version.
The campaign is behind and only one week left. Any of you 5x7 people willing to pledge for a daylight tank that works well?
David Aimone Photography
Critiques always welcome...
I'd be glad to, although I think the inventor's video does the job better!
The 4x5 tank works well. You just rinse after using but yes, the removable holders need to be dried, but it's not that hard to do. I have the B&W King 5x7 tank, and that's ok, but it uses 1350ml for 6 sheets and can't be inverted. This uses 1000ml for 4 sheets (so a bit more per sheet) but can be inverted.
The 4x5 tank is easy to carry/transport (more than my Jobo two reel tank and roller base), and although I like Paterson tanks for medium format, I can't stand the MOD 54. So, for example, when I go to Maine for a few weeks my brother has a Paterson tank there, and I'll just bring the SP 445 with me. I'd like to bring the 5x7 version too!
It actually seals pretty well if you follow the instructions, and it's easy to fill and empty.
David Aimone Photography
Critiques always welcome...
I'll second David's comments here. I've been using the 4x5 version since it came out and I really like it. Agitation is by inversion. It takes about 5 seconds to empty and fill.
It does help to dry the film holders if you are processing a batch right after another batch. Easy to do.
Mine seals very well. In fact, I walked around an entire day with the SP-445 full of fixer in my camera bag. I was shooting New55 instant film, so I used the SP-445 to clear and store the negatives.
I'm already in on the 5x7 and I've been sad to see how far off the response has been.
I'm trying to move entirely over from 4x5 to 5x7 and this would be huge help for me there. Currently all my 5x7 development is in trays.
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