Which Developer?

[paul139]

Hi, after a break of about 20 years I'm going to start developing my own B+W negs again. I will be using PanF, FP4, and HP5 (pushed 2 or 3 stops) so wondered if anyone could recommend a good allround developer? I was considering ID11 or microphen.

 

[Carl V]

Microphen is a great developer for when you've uprated films, and keeps the grain to a minimum. I've used all three films you've mentioned and tend to use liquid developers such as DD-X or LC-29, which are very good and can still be used if you've altered the film speed by one stop or so. But any more than that and I'd prefer to use the Microphen.

You may like to have a read of these Ilford developer fact sheets. Ignore the one which mentions Ilfosol S as this is no longer produced. It's now Ilfosol 3.

http://www.ilfordphoto.com/Webfiles/200621612182416.pdf

http://www.ilfordphoto.com/Webfiles/20073211236917.pdf

 

[Ambermile]

When I restarted, I bought a "Starter Pack" from a very nice man on Ebay, was less than £30 delivered if I remember right and will develop 10 or more films (depending on dev strength chosen). It's all Ilford chemicals (ID11 with developer, fix and stop) and so far no issues at all.

Arthur