Change in dilution of ID11 gives a surprise

[fidget]

After using ID11 at 1:1 for all my film, I tried to push Delta100 at ISO200 and used the stock solution undiluted (for the first time).
The results astonished me! It looks like the grain at 200 (in ID11 stock) is less prominent than at 100 in 1:1 dilution. My several bulk rolls of D100 suddenly look far more valuable to me.

I can't wait to try my MF HP5+ in stock!

What is the trade off for doing this?
(apart from using ID11 at twice the normal rate)

Also, XTOL is 30% cheaper than ID11 at the moment. I might try a few 5ltr batches. Will the swap be noticeable?

Dave....

 

[MartinP]

The "fine-grain" description of ID-11/D-76 comes from a slight solvent action on the silver clumps. By diluting the developer the solvent action is reduced, giving a slightly higher acutance. The effect you have noticed may be largely due to the solvent effect.

 

[BTMarcais]

The tradeoff is that while you'll get finer grain at stock vs. 1:1, you'll also get higher contrast.

XTOL may give you a slight speed boost- it's definitely worth a try though. Experiment, see what you like best. I was always pretty happy w/ XTOL and the delta films, although I've switched back to HP5+ for most work now.