Scratched PCX - will the scratches be visible in the footage?
 

Today I bought a slide projector that I immediately disassembled;

http://www.nattvard.com/upload/slide01.jpg
http://www.nattvard.com/upload/slide02.jpg
http://www.nattvard.com/upload/slide03.jpg
http://www.nattvard.com/upload/slide04.jpg
http://www.nattvard.com/upload/slide05.jpg
http://www.nattvard.com/upload/slidepcx.jpg

Unfortunately the PCX (or at least I think it's a PCX) had some scratches, even though the slide projector was mint. I'm planning to use the following setup;
Canon FD 1.4 - Nivea-cd - PCX - camcorder

However, I don't have a camcorder, so I can't do any tests. Does anyone know if the scratches on the PCX will be visible in the footage? My experience tells me that if I would have placed the PCX between the SLR lens and the cd, the scratches wouldn't be a problem. But from what I've read here, that isn't a proper setup.

I would also like to know if any of the optics in the slide projector lens is usable.

Cheers
Carl

Whenever I had dust on my PCX in my Letus, positioned between the GG and the camcorder, it showed up rather easily. I suspect you'll have the same issue with scratches.

I suggest you purchase a new condenser, they're only 20-40 bucks, because chances are you'll see the scratches--but it doesn't hurt to try it out first.

the closer PCX will be to GG, the better artfact will be seen.

Ok, maybe I can compromise in someway... My priority right now is to get a case and a mount for the lens. I guess the pcx will be an adjustment issue when everything else is in place.

Thanks for answering my question!

Hey guys,

I was just messing around with some of this stuff too, and was wondering if a PCX lens would help my current "vignetting" issues?
(tech info: using static GG, and a f1.4 lens)

And is a plano-convex the same as a 'Condenser'?

Whenever i go to one of those sites (like edmund optics, etc..) I get bombarded by all these different types and names of lenses, so I'm never sure which one would be best (as far as PCX and Condensers go).

I'm not trying to build the next best adapter.. It's just fun and a learning experience, so I'm trying to keep things cheap and wondered if getting an old projector (like the original poster) and taking what I need from it?

One last thing, has anyone ever seen an adapter used with a Sony HDR-HC1 yet? The filter size on it is only 37mm, and I noticed on alot of other cameras using adapters that their filter sizes are much larger... so I'm actually begining to wonder if perhaps my camera might not even be good with 'any' adapter (regardless of using a good condenser, etc...)

thanks,

jg

Yes, a condenser would help.

The problem you'll have is the fact that you're using a static GG. Combined with a HD-cam, you can expect grainy footage.

I'm not sure that theres anyone else do not offer 37mm. I know that indie35 offers. Not in ordinary list ...but they have something like you can tell them your specs for mount and they'll do.

Thanks guys... I'm actually not as concerned with the grain as I am with the "dark edges" i'm getting. Hopefully eventually I'll be able to try out a condenser lens.


jg