Light source

Used condenser enlargers

A bulb shines down through glass condenser lenses that focus the light through the negative. Because silver grain scatters directed light, condensers print about one paper grade harder than a diffusion head, according to Omega's own manual, and they show dust, scratches and grain more. Sharpness comes from the lens, so it's the same either way. Many use frosted opal bulbs like the PH211 and PH212, which a specialist dealer still lists. Contrast on variable-contrast paper comes from filters in the head's drawer or under the lens. Check that the condensers for your format are included.

19 models we cover.