Best scanner for Medium Format

[jamesdfloyd]

I am new to this section of the forum, so I apologies for asking a question I am sure has been asked numerous times before. But I will ask anyways.

Of the currently available flatbed scanners, which is the best for medium format b&w negs? Is getting the best quality a function of the scanner or more about the software, or is it a combination?

Thanks,

J.D.

 

[gavinlg]

Of the flatbeds, the epson v700/750 is the best. As I understand it uses a different and higher quality internal lens, plus a few other things that set it apart from the lower end flatbeds.

I have an epson v600 and I'm very happy with it. I get 41mp equivalent scans from my pentax 6x7 that have plenty of detail in them.

 

[gavinlg]

Model of said scanner? I prefer canon to Epson any day as well

 

[healyzh]

There is a new Canon scanner coming out. I haven't seen any reviews of it yet, but it could wipe the floor with the Epsons if the specs are indicative of the quality. It is using a new CCD, and Canon makes good optics, which is the most important thing about a scanner in reality. I have never been fond of Epson scanners. I think they are overrated.

Is this the CanoScan 9000F? At least that is what Google just turned up. I really wish they'd do a scanner capable of up to 8x10 sheet film. The new Canon 9000F does sound most interesting though for 35mm and MF.

 

[mfogiel]

Heidelberg Nexscan, Fuji Lanovia C550 Sprint, Agfa XY, Screen Cezanne Elite, and Creo EverSmart are the only flatbed scanners that qualify for a definition of a good flatbed scanner. Otherwise you can look at Imacon scanners and Nikon CS 9000, which I recommend as the cheapest of them all. Epson scanners max out at 6x enlargement. Going to medium format and scanning on a cheap flatbed is like buying a Leica and shooting with a scratched russian lens. The quality of the scanner is in the effective resolution capacity, as well as in capacity to obtain colour fidelity and high Dmax. For B&W the first thing is most important. I have the Epson V750 with Doug's holders with glass inserts, and it does not even keep the film flat, and the effective resolution is about 2000 dpi. This being said, if you are happy with lugging medium format gear around in order to enlarge up to 30x30cm, then it can work ok.

 

[PKR]

Heidelberg Nexscan, Fuji Lanovia C550 Sprint, Agfa XY, Screen Cezanne Elite, and Creo EverSmart are the only flatbed scanners that qualify for a definition of a good flatbed scanner. Otherwise you can look at Imacon scanners and Nikon CS 9000, which I recommend as the cheapest of them all. Epson scanners max out at 6x enlargement. Going to medium format and scanning on a cheap flatbed is like buying a Leica and shooting with a scratched russian lens. The quality of the scanner is in the effective resolution capacity, as well as in capacity to obtain colour fidelity and high Dmax. For B&W the first thing is most important. I have the Epson V750 with Doug's holders with glass inserts, and it does not even keep the film flat, and the effective resolution is about 2000 dpi. This being said, if you are happy with lugging medium format gear around in order to enlarge up to 30x30cm, then it can work ok.

I have some experience with a Creo, and agree with the above. It's a different world.. and wet scans are a must. I don't think most of the Kinder-Digi have seen a good film scan. And, I should add, a good Creo "pilot" is worth any extra reasonable cost. Not any common operator can get the best out of a Creo. it's a learned craft.