The Tiffen 138mm Soft Contrast 3 Filter is a contrast reduction filter that darkens highlights while maintaining the density of shadows within a scene. The effect of a light absorbing element within this filter is apparent in highlights without requiring a change in overall exposure. Details within bright areas are made more visible without a similar effect on dark areas. Tiffen Soft Contrast filters are available in grades numbering one through five. Each larger numbered grade corresponds to a stronger effect.

This filter is made using ColorCore technology, a process that involves laminating the filter substrate between 2 pieces of optical glass, grinding flat to a tolerance of 1/10,000th of an inch, and then mounting to precision metal rings.

Contrast Reduction Filter    Darkens Highlights    Maintains Shadow Density    Increases Visible Details in Highlights    No Exposure Change Required    ColorCore Technology    138mm Front Filter Threads    Plastic Case

Darkens highlights within an image while maintaining shadow density.

Filter does not affect coloration of the image and does not require a change in exposure.

Plastic filter case for storage and transport.

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. To the best of your knowledge, will this device work with a step-down converter in a country where the electricity is 230V?

A: Beseler has informed us that they do not recommend the Beseler 23CIII-XL Variable Contrast (Black & White) Enlarger for overseas use based on design.

Q: 2. What is the vertical height of the enlarger from baseboard to top of girder assembly?

A: The vertical height of the enlarger from baseboard to top of girder assembly is 45 (this includes the height of the baseboard). When the head is fully raised, the vertical height from baseboard to top of head is 58 .Walt Bistline, Photography Instructor, Earlham College

Q: 3. I want and enlarger and condenser to make B&W contact prints (most likely 8x10, but possibly 11x14 some day). Would this be good for this?

A: Yes. This will work just fine.

Q: 4. does the enlarger come with a does the enlarger come with a modular head system with the lamp house?

A: The 23Clll-XL features interchangeable lightsources. The Condenser lamphouse supplied with this model is interchangeable with the Dichro Colorhead (No.8132-02) and with the Variable Contrast Lightsource (No.8134-02)

Q: 5. What is the length of the power cord?

A: The length of the power cord is 70 .

Q: 6. What is the highest watt bulb that can safely be used in the Beseler 23C III-XL Variable Contrast Enlarger?..... I have a brand new one and focusing is very difficult with the 85 watt bulb that came with it. It seems very dark. Thanks!

A: The maximum wattage bulb compatible for use with the Beseler 23CIII-XL Variable Contrast (Black & White) Enlarger is 85 watts. Beseler only recommends 75W or 85W bulbs for use with the Beseler 23CIII-XL Variable Contrast Enlarger.

Q: 7. Does this produce the same effect as the Kase/Alyn Wallace Starglow Filter?

A: Both NiSi Star Soft Astrophotography Filter (150 x 170mm) BH #NISS669 and Kase/Alyn Wallace Starglow Filter have the same effect. They both are designed to make stars and constellations appear bigger, making them stand out from the background.

Q: 8. Just to make sure: Is it correct that the device comes without a negative carrier and without a lensboard?

A: The Beseler 23CIII-XL Variable Contrast (Black & White) Enlarger does not include a negative carrier and lensboard. Here is everything included: Includes: Chassis Baseboard Variable Contrast Lamphouse Lamp (ESJ) 6x9 Mixing Chamber Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Q: 9. Hello, can this enlarger take a two lens turret for two lenses?

A: Unfortunately, the Beseler 23CIII-XL cannot take a two lens turret. According to Beseler, they dont have an option on the market at this time for a two lens turret, though both their 8227 and 8545 can be used with either a single lens or three lens turret.

Q: 10. What is the largest print that this can create?

A: Maximum Print Size on Baseboard Approx. 17.5 x 22" / 44.5 x 55.9 cm