• Price: 299 . 409

  • Company: HP

  • Pros: Excellent quality even from 35mm film. Ships with SilverFast software and IT8 targets. 8300gp version includes monitor calibrator.

  • Cons: Rather large footprint considering the scanning area. Software dust removal is poor. 120/220 film holder only takes single frames.

  • Our Rating: We rate this 8 out of 10 We rate this 8 out of 10

The latest flatbed scanner from HP is available in two versions – the standard Scanjet 8300 costs £299 plus VAT, while the 8300gp costs £409 plus VAT. The latter is dubbed the ‘Graphic Arts’ version, and is supplied with a monitor colorimeter calibrator.

That aside, both models have identical hardware, and pack a software bundle that includes LaserSoft SilverFast AI scanning software (with IT8 reflection and trannie calibration targets).

The 8300gp’s calibration system consists of an HP-badged GretagMac-beth Eye-One Display 2 with software. This would normally cost £150 separately, so the package offers good value.

The 8300’s optical resolution of 4,800-x-4,800dpi is respectable for the price. It’ll scan high dynamic range 48-bit colour – HP doesn’t quote a sensitivity value, but it’s fine for normal negative and transparency scanning.

border=0 /><BR></div> </p> <p> The scanner has a big footprint considering its maximum reflection scanning area is just over A4 area (216-x-356mm). Film holders are supplied for three strips of six frames of 35mm film, 8-x-35mm mounted slides, a single 4-x-5-inch film, or medium format up to a 6-x-9cm frame. There’s a useful storage area in the scanner base for these holders. </p> <p> <img src= Print

Comments