HC-110 vs D-76 developers

[Valerio Trigari]

Hello everyone,

I know this subject might lead to an endless discussion, but I will risk it nonetheless! So far I always worked with Ilford Ilfosol 3 or S, but I thought of giving a go to Kodak developers. The choice was, of course, between HC-110 and D-76, but I opted for the former, for two reasons: a) it's a (dense) liquid, so I can just use the amount I need for one shot, instead of having to prepare the stock solution from a powder; b) Ansel Adams recommends it, so that's a good enough reason for me .

Have you guys tried these two developers? What are your thoughts and preferences?

Cheers,

Valerio

[gary mulder]

My own preference is to non solvent developers with LF. So HC-110 would be my choice if it has to be one of the two. My personal preference at the moment is FX-37 or FX-39 for it's non solvent nature and increase of film speed.

[Valerio Trigari]

Hi Gary, thanks for your suggestions.

Val

[dennis]

Excepting excursions into the more exotic, I've always used D76 1:1 for everything from 35 mm to 10 x 8 & it seems to work OK. D23 is easy to concoct, but very soft. Dennis.

[lostlandsuk]

They're both great actually.
I am currently experimenting with Dilution G for roll film and it works beautifully - I do think the times (roughly 18 mins) would be a bit numbing for sheet film though.
Dilution H is a better compromise for sheet film and again works beautifully.
If you can't be arsed hanging around tray processing, then Dilution B is the way to go -super speedy, however your highlights will run away if you're not careful.
HC 110 is very dependent on exact measurement and temperature - it is also extremely consistent and long lasting. Yes grain is a tad softer than with D76 however this is LF so what's the problem!
The covington innovations HC 110 page is a superb source for info on it, including some incredibly useful quantity charts.
Please also bear in mind, there are some films it simply doesn't get on with . . Fomapan 100 being one that comes to mind . . at least that was my experience.
Oh and I'd also recommend if you can dividing up the syup into several air-tight containers - any oxidisation causes it to go rusty brown and it can be a bit alarming. Also by doing this you are giving yourself a bit of insurance.
Phil