A couple questions about Nikon scanner versions

[dogbunny]

So, I'm trying to choose a scanner. I am leaning towards a Nikon. However, there are so many different versions it is hard to know what is going to give me what I am looking for. The Coolscan 5000 seems to be the most popular and command the highest prices--the 8000 and the 9000 also seem to go for a premium.

My question is about the other models such as the 4000, the V, and the IV. Would these give results better than say the Plustek or an Epson flatbed scanner? They seem to be noticeably cheaper.

I'm will to pay around a grand--give or take. I'll be scanning about 80% B&W, 20% color. Initially, I'll just be using for web stuff, but I would like to get into some digital printing down the line.

 

[craygc]

The Coolscan 5000 seems to be the most popular and command the highest prices--the 8000 and the 9000 also seem to go for a premium.

All the Nikons have been discontinued... The 8000 is the predecessor of the 9000 and are both 4000dpi 14-bit medium format scanners

My question is about the other models such as the 4000, the V, and the IV. Would these give results better than say the Plustek or an Epson flatbed scanner? They seem to be noticeably cheaper.

The IV is the predecessor of the V and is a 4000dpi 12-bit scanner where as the V is a 14-bit machine.

The 4000 is the predecessor of the 5000 and both are 4000dpi 14-bit machines. Ive used the 4000 for a long time (and still do)

Yes, the results will be a LOT better than the Plustek or a flatbed.

I'm will to pay around a grand--give or take. I'll be scanning about 80% B&W, 20% color. Initially, I'll just be using for web stuff, but I would like to get into some digital printing down the line.

They all scan colour and B&W very well. The only gotcha is that the light source is not diffused and as such will show up all dust and scratches - with B&W that means a lot of cleaning up manually post scan.

 

[dogbunny]

Thanks, That clears up a lot in my mind. I was considering the 4000 because it seems to be the best quality in the "inexpensive" bunch.

 

[Mudman]

I have the IV - it's not 4000 DPI, 2900 12 bit. It works great.

 

[Rhoyle]

I've got the V running on a G4 Mac Mini OS 10.5.8. Nikon software won't run on it. I downloaded Vuescan and after pulling my hair out trying to learn it, I'm now getting excellent results once again.

 

[craygc]

I have the IV - it's not 4000 DPI, 2900 12 bit. It works great.

Yep, youre right, my bad memory - I used to have that scanner a looong time ago 😀

 

[dogbunny]

I settled on the Nikon 8000ED. I'm pretty excited. I paid $1200, it seems reasonable for a working unit with three different film holders. Can't wait. 🙂