Hi, I got a Durst 601 enlarger, having big trouble with the contrast. No matter the filter the contrast is low. If I use a beseler enlarger, the contrast come out ok. Am using illford filters, illford papers and chemicals. I usen once a grade 4 gallery paper and it really sucked. Can someone help me. Thank you in advance. dajones44

-- Dennis Jones (dajones44@yahoo.com), March 30, 2002

Answers

Is the lens clean and clear?

-- Tim Brown (brownt@flash.net), March 31, 2002.

I assume since you mentioned "Ilford filters" then you're using the condensor head. On that setup, I generally print G1.5 to G2. Have you pulled the condensors out and cleaned?

-- Nigel Smith (nlandgl@unite.com.au), March 31, 2002.

I have recently acquired a M601 and I get reasonable contrast with it. Where are you putting the VC filters? Mine are below the lens simply because I don't have the correct size filters, yet, for the filter drawer. Any chance you have the wrong bulb or that is it grossly misaligned? Clean lens? Trash in the bellows?

-- Ray Henrikson (rhenriks@nycap.rr.com), April 07, 2002.