🚀 go-pugleaf

On Wed, 01 Mar 2006 14:07:12 +0100, Ernst Dinkla
<NoEntry@pigment-print.com> wrote:


>There is a picture of the Epson lenses at the Japanese pages:
>http://www.i-love-epson.co.jp/products/colorio/scanner/gtx900/technology.htm
>
>I expect that the Nikon 8000/9000 still beats the Epson V750-M 
>Pro in MF and 35 mm quality but the Nikon doesn't scan 4x5 and 
>panorama sizes (and possibly 5x7's) at 3000 PPI, doesn't do 
>reflective A4 and 8x10 film at 2000 PPI, doesn't come with wet 
>mount carriers from the factory.
>
>The first German magazine tests of this scanner will tell 
>more. Photo-i is always fast but not very consistent in its 
>testing and it is also very manufacturer friendly. ISO 
>standards tell more.


I was actually impressed at the degree of attention 
and technical detail given by Epson on the Epson-
Japan website.  Eg., showing the lens arrangement, 
down to elements and groups. Maybe that's a good omen.

Another good omen is their specific references to 
wet-mounting.  Unless Epson is just being devious 
and cynical.

I can tell you that a "typical" flatbed scanner 
has a lens on the order or 20 mm f/8 or so, and 
that even the 4990 is probably not much better 
than this.  By comparison: the MF Coolscans use 
a lens that's around 75mm f/4.

So, we'll just have to wait and see.  If nothing 
else, it's comforting that Epson still has not 
given up film, and (most surprisingly) on medium- 
and large-format film.

Apparently they've noticed a "hole" in the market 
and decided to address it.  I only wish Nikon would 
try to compete in that same niche.

If it turns out that the new Epsons really offer 
a significant upgrade to the 4990, I will probably 
buy one.  Even at $500 or $750, these are still 
in what I'd call the "dirt cheap" category, for 
a MF or LF film scanner.


rafe b
www.terrapinphoto.com