Enlarging lens for Zone VI Type II to print 5x7 recommendations

[brad_doherty]

I have a Zone VI Type II enlarger and trying to decide between a

Schneider 180/4 Apo-componon S or a Rodenstock 240/5.6 Rodagon to

print from 5x7 negatives. Any thoughts or other better choices ?

Thank you.

[george_stewart1]

I've had that enlarger but never printed 5x7 (just 4x5 and 8x10). I think 240 is too long. My recommendation is to always use the longest lens one can so I'd split the difference and get a 210mm. Although 180mm should be fine for 11x14 printing, you might find yourself with vignetting if you make larger prints.

[keith_pitman]

I concur with George; the 210 is the right lens. You'll need roughly 37 inches from the film to the baseboard to make an 11x14, and 43 inches for a 16x20.

[tito sobrinho]

When printing from a 5x7 negative on my Zone VI, I always use the 210 Componon-S...excellent.

[peter_marrek]

210 is the best overall, have a mint 210 Rodagon available. Apo is un-necessary for b&w.