Projectors

[Robert4770]

I have gotten back into Super 8 in a big way the last six months after not shooting any film for years. My biggest concern is that my Bell & Howell projector from the early 80's will not last forever. Its odd that nobody is manufacturing any since the format is supposed to be healthy for student film makers. What are they showing their films on?
If I have to buy something used what would you recommend?

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[#Pedro]

There are at least 3 new models still in production. One is a rather primitive Russian model, a newcomer is made by FUEMO in Italy and can be ordered there(pro 250 W halogen model with mag sound playback), a classic is the Beaulieu 708 EL, that can be assembeled on demand, in several versions and also with HTI lamp (4x brighter than halogen, 2x brighter than Xenon).

For 2nd hand, there are many many projectors in good conditions around, and if not, they are still relatively easy to repair. Look here what my dealer is offering: http://www.bavaria-cinehome.de/S8Sec...ojektoren.html
Projectors are not comparable with today?s one-way electronic consumer products, the quality is totally different, sth made nearly "for eternity".
A good choice is always Elmo, especially the GS1200MO which meets todays requirements in pic quality and brightness.
Others are Braun Visacustic, which has a film gate construction like the Beaulieu. This two models can be regulated from an extern sound source in order to achieve sync sound. A good joice is also the Bauer Studio Class (T610, T525, T502), IF the pressure piece of the gate and the sound heads are o.k. The Bauer runs extremly quiet (!), but is more service-intensive (film path must be cleaned regulary).
Bolex and Eumig are good machines, too, high precision mechanics, but unfortunatly not available with a bright 150 W bulb. For me, the image is too dimm with only 100 W.

You are very right asking about projectors:
Only with a good projector you will really see what is in your films, what a video transfer never will show.

Pedro

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[This message has been edited by #Pedro (edited February 19, 2002).]

[MikeBrantley]

I second the recommendation for a used Elmo. They are solid, reliable units. About the only thing to go wrong are broken belts and blown bulbs.

If you can't afford something like the GS-1200, you may find that something like the ST-180e will suit you fine. I've used one of those for years after finding one for $15 at a thrift store. You'll probably have to pay much more than that, though. I was incredibly lucky with that one!

I also had (and sold) an ST-600M. Check out eBay to see what's available, though be careful.

Good luck.

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--Mike Brantley