I am looking to upgrade from an El-Nikkor 75/4.0 enlarger lens. What are the differences, in terms of picture quality, between a Rodenstock Rodagon 80/4.0 and a Schneider Componon-S 80/4.0, if any?

For 35mm, I currently use a Rodenstock Rodagon 50/2.8, and have been very happy with the results.

-- Ellie M. Diaz (insemd@langate.gsu.edu), March 24, 1999

Answers

They're equal; pick whichever you prefer for price or operational reasons.

-- John Hicks / John's Camera Shop (jbh@magicnet.net), March 25, 1999.

From what I have read Schneider recommends their Componon-S 80/4,0 for negative sizes up to 6x6 whilest the Rodenstock is supposed to cover 6x7. The few tests I've seen regards the Componon-S to be the better of these two lenses (it's another story with the expensive APO-versions).

-- Peter Olsson (Peter.Olsson@sb.luth.se), March 25, 1999.

For the record, you could also upgrade by going to the 80mm f/5.6 El Nikkor. Your 75 is a four element lens, but the 80 is a six element design like the more expensive German lenses. Although a stop slower, the El Nikkor is substantially cheaper. Schneider and Rodenstock both publish MTF specs; according to their results the Schneider is a little better.

-- Brian Hinther (BrianH@sd314.k12.id.us), March 30, 1999.