Jobo Rotary processors

[Latinbob]

Now that my Sigma DP-1 order fell through, I'm thinking about taking that money and ordering a Jobo CPE-2 Plus rotary processor. I've been developing 35mm and medium format film for awhile without issues, but it seems like an easier way to do it. I also want to shoot more 4x5 film and transparencies. I know I can develop the C-41 4x5 at home, but the slides may be harder, and this sounds like a good way to accomplish this.

Has anyone used one of the Jobo processors? B&H can still get them via special order.

Bob

[Mr. Pickles]

Apparently nobody has used these.

So you are the man. Get one, use it, and report back here pronto with the review and results....

[cyclohexane]

Ah, where would you be without the encouragement of good ol' Pickles?

[Mr. Pickles]

Someone has to spend his money.......

[Latinbob]

I've wanted one for awhile, and now that I can't get a DP-1, the money for it can go towards a processor for film. I kinda think it is a smarter purchase anyway. I have too many cameras as it is. I just need to figure out what all I need for 4x5. It looks like Jobo only makes two processors now, so that makes the buying decision easier.

[photobubba]

Jobos are great. I have a hand operated model (i don't remember the number) and I worked on a ATL model as a employee of a camera store processing B&W film. I think mine is the lowest and I have done E-6 and C-41 film, and Ilfochrome prints up to 11x14. Film sizes were 35mm thru 8x10. The tempering bath kept everything at the correct temperature even in winter when the tap water was cold.

Now you have me wanting a darkroom again. Dam you internet

[Latinbob]

Thanks, Photobubba! I'm just about to go ahead and order it. I've wanted to do more film processing, and the Jobo seemed like a good deal for that.

Bob

[photobubba]

One thought though, Do lots of B&W testing as I found a prewet and a 20% reduction in developer time (I used a condenser enlarger so I wanted a little more contrast in my negs. You may want to reduce more like 25% for condenser enlarger.) In the E6 and C41 processing everything will go as posted. Once I got things in order (and it was not really hard to do so) everything became easy and consistent.

I now need to get mine back from a friend I loaned it to, or maybe even go over to his dark room

[Fast Eddie]

I've used Jobo processors, including the CPE-2, for developing 4x5 negatives and transparencies for many years and find it to be a great system. You won't be disappointed.

[Latinbob]

Thanks Fast Eddie and Photobubba. Have either of you used the lift? I probably won't order it at first, but I'm wondering if it makes the Jobo a *lot* easer to use, or is it just a convenience thing.

Bob

[Fast Eddie]

Originally Posted by Latinbob

Thanks Fast Eddie and Photobubba. Have either of you used the lift? I probably won't order it at first, but I'm wondering if it makes the Jobo a *lot* easer to use, or is it just a convenience thing.

Bob

Get the lift, you'll thank me later.

[Latinbob]

Ok, just one more question then. I plan on doing 4x5 film. Do I need the film loader base for 4x5 or is it doable without it? I'm comfortable loading reels in the dark. Is it a pain in the butt without it?

Bob

[Fast Eddie]

I've always used the loader, which makes it a breeze to get the sheets safely on the reels -- but, as with most things, it is probably doable without. I fumble a bit in the dark, so I've always felt better using whatever 'devices' made the job easier. Hope this helps.

[Latinbob]

Yes it does! I'm going to order my stuff today, so this was very timely feedback.

Bob

[Latinbob]

I'm having the hardest time spending this money.

B&H emailed me today telling me that they can't get the Jobo anymore. This is a month after I ordered it and got all the other stuff for it. I guess I will have to get one off eBay. If anyone wants to unload a CPP or CPE Jobo, let me know!

Bob

[Robert Watcher]

The processors in my darkroom when i shot film, were Jobo models. The CPE (if that is what the 11x14 model was) and the CPP (if that is what the 20x24 model was) served me dependably from 1987 when I started processing all of my own work, until 2002 when I moved into the digital realm. With these units, I processed all of my own prints, much of my own film (35mm and 120/220), transviews, duratrans, cibachrome, transparencies - - - they could handle it all. The temperatures stay very stable so that I always got consistent results with my chemical mix/temperature/time combinations. The larger models were a little better at maintaining exact temperature as a result of the water area being better covered and the chemical bottle area being more isolated from the open air. The only thing that I consider an essential with any of the units, is the lift - - - the lift will set you back a bit more money , but is invaluable.

[cyclohexane]

B&H emailed me today telling me that they can't get the Jobo anymore. This is a month after I ordered it and got all the other stuff for it.

Jeez. We need to send Pickles over there to give them some encouragement.

[heartseye]

Lordy ! I have tried the Jobo years ago...........It will drive you NUTS. If you are really bound on self torment, look into motorised base and separate drums.....Cibachrome made one, as did a few others. But really, self-flagellation is as much fun, and much cheaper........