Which developer for tri-x

[terrafirmanada]

I have both Ilfosol and D-76, which would be better with tri-x if I am trying to get sharp results? If D-76 would straight or 1:1 be better ( I assume 1:9 if it is Ilfosol, since that is all they list on their container).

 

[kaiyen]

If you want sharper results, dilute D76 more rather than less. You need to decrease the amount of sulfite in the tank to minimize grain dissolution. I would go with at least 1+1, and consider 1+3 if it's still not sharp enough. Please note that you will get more grain doing that, though.

allan

 

[terrafirmanada]

Thanks, loading the tanks right now. I've never tried 1:3 before, so I think I will give that a shot. Do I agitate the same? (5 sec. every 30 sec. is norm for me- tipping the tank back and forth)

 

[T_om]

I hope you like chunky grain 'cause that is what D-76 3:1 is gonna give you.

Tom

 

[kaiyen]

I probably would have tried 1+1 first. But as long as this isn't the most valuable roll in the world...but then you shouldn't ever experiment with valuable rolls, anyway.

Agitate as usual, yes. But, of course, be prepared to adjust your times based on your agitation, exposure, and development techniques.

allan

 

[Poptart]

Develop it in Dektol 1:1 for 1 minute; agitation at 0" & 30" and use the extra ten minutes to make fun of Dick Cheney.

 

[celluloidprop]

Remember to alter your developing times with D-76 1:3 rather than 1:1 or stock. Look on www.digitaltruth.com for starting times.

As I recall, Ilfosol is similar to Kodak's HC-110, making it less of a solvent developer than D-76 stock, meaning more grain and a sharper look. (I may have Ilfosol confused with another Ilford developer, though.)

 

[terrafirmanada]

Thanks for the responses. I have developed a couple in the D-76, and today I tried the Dektol. I think from initial looking over the Dektol is what I am hoping for. I won't know for sure until I get a chance to print a few of each up. This could be good news if all I ever need to buy is Dektol. Simple shopping list.

 

[martin-f5]

Here in germany I can get Adox A49, well known as Calbe A49.
You can order it at www.fotoimpex.de , they are located in Berlin.
With the Adox I can get perfect negativs with a dillution 1:2 neativs are sharp and not grainy.
Maybe a cheap solution.
Adox is also my developer for my other films, HP5, APX100 and Fomapan 100.

 

[Flyfisher Tom]

Try Xtol 1+1 or 1+3 , very fine grain with Tri-X. HC-110 has slightly larger grain, but is still a wonderful developer for Tri-X.

 

[Poptart]

You're very welcome.
(Buy my eBay crap!)

 

[Trius]

Ilford's HC-110 equivalent is Ilfotec HC , not Ilfosol. I agree HC-110 is a wonderful developer for Tri-X, it was my standard for years. I haven't used the Ilford equivalent.

Martin: Calbe A49 at 1:2? I thought it was essentially a Rodinal equivalent with somewhat different strength. The most concentrated working solution for Rodinal I've ever used or seen recommended is 1:25.

 

[kaiyen]

A49 is kind of like D76. R09 is like Rodinal.

allan

 

[Trius]

Allan: Thanks. Numbers confuse me. They should remove the 9s.