Re: Kodaslide 1 conversion...

[P3D Elliott Swanson <e3d@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Paul Talbot posted:

Elliott Swanson wrote regarding upgrading Kodaslide I viewers:

>Buy only the *Wollensak* acromats for this specific conversion, not the
>Reveres. The Revere lenses are fine for other applications, but not this
>one.

Why?

> In my opinion, you end up with a better viewer than a Red Button (which
> also has 20mm lenses).

Better how?

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Paul, et al..

The reason you ought to stay with the Wollensak lenses in this application
is the 3mm differnce in focal length (fl for the Revere is 44mm and the
Wollensak is 47mm). This tiny bit counts if you're planning to enlarge the
slide carrier to 7p. I've tried both and can see the difference. Also, it
looks much sexier, because the Reveres fit flush to the lens carrier, but
the Wollensaks (I retain the majority of the Wollensak aluminum lens
housing) need to be extended out the added 3mm.  This makes a nice,
finished look to the modification. In fact, most people who see it think
it's some kind of factory issued variant of the Kodaslide they didn't know
about. (This can be much fun if you're into putting on a know-it-all.
>:)

Now, why is it better... First, keep in mind that we're talking about a
viewer that has been upgraded by redoing the focus system-- a 20 minute
job that requires minor tear down, removal of the cork strip, cleaning of
the metal focus rack, regreasing, and putting a piece of tube over the
focus shaft (a technique developed by George Themelis and clearly
described in his Kodaslide book). The original cork pad focusing system
stinks, but is easily fixed by anyone who can turn a screwdriver.  (The
halogen lamp, and replaced reflector are options for both the Red Button
and the Kodaslide that I think *everyone* ought to do. The 7p mod is
unnecessary on either machine unless you use 7p cameras.) I prefer the
Wollensak optics to the Red Button optics for one. For two, the mechanical
design of the Kodaslide is *much* superior to the Red button. Everything
is internally contained-- no front lens housing moving back and forth, and
vulnerable to damage. The side plates of the Red Button are a weak design
point and prone to cracking. The plastics used in the Kodaslide seem
tougher. The Kodaslide metal carrier, when properly adjusted, is superior,
imho. On a Kodaslide, you can easily lock the viewer lamp into the on
position which is sometimes nice. Some of this is obviously subjective,
but I really like the self contained box on the Kodaslide and the absence
of an externally racking focus system.

--Elliott


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