Plustek 8100 vs Plustek 8200i Ai

[bruce_erickson1]

<p><br />Does anyone have solid information about the difference between these two film scanners other than price? I may have read that the only difference is that the included scanning software is different and that otherwise they are the same machine. Is that it? (I may have to replace my Nikon scanner (gasp!)</p>

[pbalko]

<p>The Plustek site neatly explains the differences between models. It looks like the same software with each:<br>

<a href="http://plustek.com/oeu/products/opticfilm-series/">http://plustek.com/oeu/products/opticfilm-series/</a></p>

[konrad_michniewicz]

<p>Bruce,<br>

Yes, the only difference is that the Ai has...<br /><br /></p>

<h5> Build-in infrared channel with SilverFast iSRD for dust and scratch removal</h5>

<p>So you're just paying extra for what the software does -- not the hardware.</p>

<p>I personally loath any scanner adjustments. I feel scanner's were<br />built to scan, and not fix digital images. And software programs<br /> like GIMP and Photoshop that are DESIGNED to fix digital images,<br /> can do a far better job than SilverFast Dust Removal.<br>

Yes, using GIMP or Photoshop isn't as easy. Silverfast is quick and easy. <br>

<br />But what you save in convenience, you pay in quality.</p>

<p>I'd get the cheaper scanner -- without all the bells-and-whistles <br />like Silverfast dust removal.</p>

<p>Get a "natural" scan, then use GIMP or Photohop to fix your scans.</p>

 

<p>Hope that helps!</p>

<p>Konrad</p>

<p> </p>

[bruce_erickson1]

<p>Yes, that advice clinched it. I'll get the cheaper vrsion. Never heard of GIMP--I've been using a clunky version of Elements--probably should upgrade.</p>

[konrad_michniewicz]

<p>Bruce, good to hear you're didn't fall for the marketing.</p>

<p>I'm working on a tutorial on how to fix scans using Elements. When it's done, I'll give you a quick update.</p>

<p>Konrad</p>

[bob_himmelright]

<p>software is part, but if the 8100 doesn't have the infrared channel built into it's hardware, you'll have to spot dust manually no matter what program you're using to scan.</p>

[pc_cap]

<p>Any more thoughts on this topic? I'm also considering the two scanners. Does anyone think the Ai is worth the price?</p>