Scanner question regarding flexibility

[Chris Jameson]

I've been using an Epson 2450 scanner for quite a while, and although the quality is adequate, there's one thing that causes regular problems, and that is the scanner automatically cropping images.
The scanner uses the usual film holders, so it's scanning a predefined area, but on slides where there are large dark areas (not necessarily black) near the edge of the frame, the scanner often decides to crop, and I can't control this.

I've been looking to upgrade anyway, most likely to a V700, but can anyone tell me how much flexibility there is on a V700 in controlling what the scanner actually scans?
It can be very frustrating when I've spent a large amount of time setting up and making an image, only to be hobbled by not being able to produce a print of the 'true' image due to the scanners limitations.

I've read great things about the V700, but none of the specs and / or reviews mention control over the scan area.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Chris.

[Joanna Carter]

I use a V700 and can attest that you can scan whatever area you like, just by selecting that area in the dialog. It is an excellent scanner (for a flatbed), all I would add is to get the Better Scanning film holder from Doug Fisher to give you control over the ultimate sharpness of the scans.

[Mike M]

Chris I use a V700 and it does give you complete control on how you want to crop the image. Its an excellent piece of kit and would recommend it to anyone.

[Nigels]

Chris, I have the Epson 2450 and have experienced the exact same problem. I think it is the limitation of the standard scanning software to interpret the high contrast of slide film, particularly velvia. I have tried scanning with a piece of software called Vuescan and slides that otherwise got cropped scanned ok. So when I get my next batch back I will be purchasing said software - cheaper than a replacement scanner.
Hope this helps. The link to the software site is http://www.hamrick.com/

[Chris Jameson]

Nigels, thanks for that link, I've downloaded the software and shall give it a go.

I was considering replacing anyway, more on grounds of scan quality than anything else.
This new software might provide a stop gap measure, but I think I'll be replacing it in the not too distant future.

Anyone reading this considering the V700, there's a very comprehensive review to be found at:

http://www.photo-i.co.uk/Reviews/intera ... page_1.htm

Thanks all for your help.

Chris.

[Rob.B]

I too use a V700, very flexable regarding supported negative/transparency sizes.

I've not a bad thing to say about it really, apart from it's not exactly slimline.

Rob.