Dumb question... are medium format enlargers different from normal ones? Because we have an Opemus 6 (i think) thats currently set up for medium format... can you get a 35mm insert and use it for regular film?

Lack of instruction booklets : annoying.

ignore that question. it's way too stupid ;) of course you can

If it's an Opemus 6 you can get the manual at

www.meopta.com

Jorge O

One difference would be the lens used. Most of the 35mm-only enlargers I've seen come with a 50mm or so lens. 6x6 would require a longer lens - more like 85mm or so. The longer lens could be used with the 35mm, in fact, some say it's better to use somewhat long lenses, but I don't think the 6x6 could use the shorter 50mm lens successfully.
j

That depends very much on which enlarger.

Jorge O

Yup.. i've figured out to use it for 35mm we need to get a 24x36 insert and a 50mm lens... right?

If it's a full (there's a sudent) version Opemus 6 (glass neg carrier), you do not need the insert - there are sliding blades to mask the neg.
The student uses a plastic carrier and there is an insert for it.

And, of course, a 50mm lens.

Jorge O

Thanks for that - I'll check before we go spending money on a carrier :)

you can use the MF setup (and some would argue that you'll get better quality doing so as it will only be using the centre of the lenses capability... debatable) but your enlargement size will be limited to smaller prints, and, I think, you may have longer exposure times (because the neg is further from the paper than if you had a 50mm lens). I've done this on occasion when I have wanted a quicky print from a 35mm neg but couldn't be bothered changing my enlarger to 35mm mode (different condensor, lens, neg carrier masks)

Needs a different condensor as well? Crap :(

Is it necessary?
Dam, my Opemus III doesn't allows for it; luckily both the neg and the paper are not aware of it! (-:

Seriously, for the maximum light this is true, but I've always used 6x6 enlargers (a stolen Durst 600 and now the Opemus) for 35mm with the 6x6 condensers and today I print 8x10 in about 10s at f8 with a 75W bulb.

Jorge O

Needs a different condensor as well? Crap :(

Doesn't need it. But should have it, for optimal results.

I use my Opemus 6 with colour head for everything small enough to fit in the carrier - 24x36 to 6x6 - with the same mixing chamber. No problems at all. I have more difficulties with 6x7 in my 13x18cm enlarger...

I have a 50, a 60 and an 80mm lens for the opemus. The 50 has been used once (needed a really big enlargement from a small part of a negative, the 60 never, and the 80 the rest of the time.

Just one more thing to remember. When you use a 50mm lens you must invert the lens mounting ring (it is slightly conical in shape) or you won't be able to focus properly. I used one of these enlargers with a Meograde VC head and was very impressed by its performance. These enlargers may not be the prettiest on the planet but they are tough and long lasting. The metal negative carrier is very well made. :)