8mm Forum: 35mm Portable Spectra’s

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Posted by Robert Tucker (Member # 386) on November 24, 2008, 07:18 AM:

Well I thought I’d keep you up dated as I finally got around to using my pair of Spectra’s at the weekend. And to my delight I am very impressed with what I saw.

I set up the stand, which is really easy to do thou it comes in three parts. Attached the main projector on top. And fitted the spool boxes connected the sound cable to the matching amplifier.

And away I go, I thought I’d try out a reel of Technicolor film and I was blown away on how good the picture looked. The picture was rock steady and using the 1000watt Xenon lamp was a marvel. I found the controls of the projector really easy to use and in an easy location to get too. One button just to press the xenon lamp and sound lamp on at the same time. And a toggle switch to get the motor running.

Even the sound was very loud and crisp and detailed using a pair of JBL Speakers. The little exciter lamps I found funny looking bulbs. Thou they are just normal bayonet fitting.

My next step is to use both as a pair to show a feature and see how easy it really is to do change over’s with these machines. The main power supply to both projectors and Xenon lamp plays a part.

I must admit they look more modern and up to date compared to the FP3 Philips which I had before these which had a spool capacity of an hour.

I must admit these are the machines to go for if you want to start showing 35mm films for domestic use in your own living room but having the added advantage of storing it away and if needed is easily mobile.

I did note that the cooling fans are the nosiest compared to the running of the motor or even having film running through it. But placing a monitor speaker underneath the projector can easily cut this out.

With spare parts still available for this projector from the company in China that still sell a similar model. All parts are interchangeable and will fit older versions of the same model.

Photo's will indeed follow [Smile]

Posted by Michael O'Regan (Member # 938) on November 24, 2008, 07:27 AM:

Hi Robert,

Whats the noise level like overall compared to a 16mm machine?

-Mike

Posted by Robert Tucker (Member # 386) on November 24, 2008, 07:33 AM:

Hi Mike,

The noise level i would say would be probably the same as a 16mm projector (Fumeo X900) and more importantly how big your room is.

I did think a Philips FP3 was quiet as it runs like a sewing machine and to i heard the Spectra's. I think this is down to it being more compact and everthing enclosed in a box.

Posted by Jean-Marc Toussaint (Member # 270) on November 24, 2008, 02:22 PM:

Robert, I'm glad you finally found your perfect toys. I guess you won't be looking for 9.2 mm spindle split reels anymore.
Let us know as soon as you start playing with change-overs.
"8 in the Gate" is the key...

Posted by Michael O'Regan (Member # 938) on November 24, 2008, 02:26 PM:

Looking forward to some photos, Robert.

-Mike

Posted by Patrick Walsh (Member # 637) on November 24, 2008, 11:59 PM:

Hi Robert
I am in the throws of buying a pair from the factory in Shanghi, they even wanted to know if I would like to be a NZ agent for them, that ways I would buy them at a discount price!
I believe the only wee problem with them is the lens barrel size and that one must get sleeves made up if you were to use different makes of lenses other than the ones that come with the projectors, they also come with a anamprphic lens holder that swings up out of the way when not in use.
It would be nice to see some pics of your machine/s Robert!
Patrick

Posted by Robert Tucker (Member # 386) on November 25, 2008, 12:21 PM:

Hi Patrick,

Good to hear you are going down that route; strangely enough I was to go down that route myself until I found a pair in the UK. So I guess you could say I saved on the shipping costs at least as it’s the complete kit. With an extra 7 1000w Xenon bulbs.

Correct me if I am wrong but I think the lens and the barrel size is 62.5mm, which is not the normal size as, used in local cinemas, which is 70.6mm. Thou because it is portable like the Philips FP3 it is the standard size.

Not sure if you can get step down sleeves for this, so you will be limited on what you can get. Thou I know that ISCO and Schneider lens which I have two of, still do make this size and if you are lucky you can also get them second hand from time to time. But I highly recommend you buy an ISCO or Schneider lenses, as this is the best lens that money can buy in quality brightness and sharpness. The Schneider being the better of the two.

Yes these come with pretty nifty scope lens holders that just easily swing in and out of place when needed. Depending on where you will be using these I use a Kowa 16D lens which gives great results as you will also come to find that most scope lens for cinema’s are for long throw only. So I use the Kowa because I am limited on how far I can go back.

Posted by Jean-Marc Toussaint (Member # 270) on November 25, 2008, 02:22 PM:

I have a spare 70mm ISCO Ultrastar in 62.5 mm diameter if you're interested.
Also have a 95 mm in 70.6 diameter.
150 euros each.

Posted by Patrick Walsh (Member # 637) on November 25, 2008, 11:16 PM:

I will probably get some sleves turned up out of aluminium.
One problem with the machines is they still come out new with a exciter lamp instead of the red reader system to use when screening modern 35mm prints, so I will need to do a home made job on them using a red l.e.d mounted where the exciter lamp would sit.
I hope you get alot of enjoyment from your machines Robert!, are yours the grey ones? as I believe they also come out in black and also white.
Patrick [Big Grin]

Posted by Robert Tucker (Member # 386) on November 26, 2008, 05:09 AM:

Yes these are the grey ones which I think look nicer then the black ones thou I have not seen these in white. Saying that I think the most fun apart from everything being standard in the machines being the very good high light output, very easy to maintain and being well made. Is the thought of doing change over’s.

I did think of going down the route of converting just one so that It can take larger reels for a hours worth of film. Thou the cost for these long playing arms with torque motor will set me back about £600 pounds which is a bit steep. So I think I will stay with the change over system for now.

With the machines only coming with out the new exciter lamps. I am sure you can request them to include the red cyan reader at no extra cost. But maybe things might have changed. I do know of company that sell these converters where all you do is just change your existing bulb and use the LED type which uses the same bulb base fitting as your old one.

Also another factor you need something that will boost the sound output from the LED as the voltage and brightness will be considerable lower.

Anyway let me know how you get along If you do decide to go down that route of DIY using red LED’s. It would be good to find out how to do this myself even thou at the moment I only have a handful of trailers with the new Cyan track.

Rob.

Posted by Jean-Marc Toussaint (Member # 270) on November 26, 2008, 07:57 AM:

Robert, if you decide to go for a long play unit, let me know. I have here an additionnal set of spare parts necessary to build a Cinemeccanica tower : main motor, reversible cycle controller, top feeder spindle assay, bottom take-up spindle assay and floating hub 12 000 ft - for two hours - take up reel.
All you need to add is a frame (The one I used to operate was made out of wood, so it's quite easy to build), a set of belts (one v-shaped, one toothed) and some power cable.
I'm selling this set for 350 euros and even with s&h, it won't be 600 pounds...

Have a look at the "Xetron/Cinemecannica "Tower" DGB film transport" manual from the Film Transport paragraph of the manuals section.

Posted by Robert Tucker (Member # 386) on November 26, 2008, 11:09 AM:

Sounds right up my street as I might be interested in this, as I would like to build something where the reels can be both underneath the projector if possible as I need as much space to go back to still get a good big picture. As most Long Playing Tower Units are only really designed to play behind a projector.

I assume you could use this to your advantage when making up and breaking down a 2 hour feature?

The only thing I will need to find is a set of belts like you say I assume one being for the take up motor and timing belt. I suppose the other thing is to make sure that the design is right frame wise and that it can take the weight. Just had a thought I wonder if wood from a pallet would be any good for the design?

Posted by Jean-Marc Toussaint (Member # 270) on November 26, 2008, 12:16 PM:

Robert, I disassembled mine as it was bolted to my wall. I used treated construction wood, it's 30mm thick, plus 30mm wood beams for reinforcement and metal bracing. I also used the same material to build my set of tier seatings.
The catch is that it's really meant to be used on a tower system as one motor drives the whole thing and there's a clutch on it that will either engage or disengage the belt pulleys.
With the clutch in one position and the cycle controller set to 23 cycles in forward, the motor will have the right torque to take-up the film. Clutch in position two and controller set up for 50 cycles in reverse, and you'll have the torque to rewind and disassemble prints (you need a platter or a split reel in 12.7mm)
There's also an anti-rollback contraption (it needs a strong spring such as the ones found on folding couches) on the feeder spindle.
Your idea of coaxial reels is great (my new IDEF film transport does this for up to 15000 ft of film), I just don't know if it's feasible with the Cinemeccanica parts. Hope everything is clear.
Check out the drawings on the manual.

But we are wandering way off the 8mm subject so, if you want we can continue this discussion via email off the forum.

Posted by Steven J Kirk (Member # 1135) on November 27, 2008, 01:05 AM:

How can one go about buying one of these new? Is there a website? Looking forward to some pictures... this is all very interesting.

Posted by Patrick Walsh (Member # 637) on November 27, 2008, 02:43 AM:

I believe Proyecson make this machine an exact copy but under their name and their ones come with 6000ft arms with that extra take up motor, also they (the projector) can be mounted on their long play tower that takes 12000ft reels.
I prefer changeovers as if you are only going to show a feature once you do not need to muck around makeing up films, but it you were to use them in say a commercial set up a long play tower would be handy, Also I like doing changeovers as it keeps you busy in the projection box!
I believe that the Spectras use a switching type set up in the rectifier that switches the lamps for both machines on/off when a changeover happens. What shutter do they use the look like a drum shutter but I could be wrong. [Smile]

Some pics of your beasts Robert wouldn't go a miss! [Big Grin]

Pat

Posted by Robert Tucker (Member # 386) on November 27, 2008, 03:00 AM:

Hi Steven,

Please contact me via email and I will give you more info on price. I have direct contact with the factory in China. Where you can buy these as a brand new complete kit. As well as spares when needed.

At the moment I have on order a complete set of aperture plates for Keith Wilton who urgently requires these for the next BFCC.

Here is some technical data about the machine. There is two types one which is light weight 750 Xenon and the 105 being 1000 Xenon.

MODEL 2000/105A 35MM PORTABLE CINE PROJECTORModel 2000 35mm Portable Cine Projector is a new type projector developed by our company with features of small size, light weight (lighter 1/3 than model 105 projector), beautiful exterior and reliable function etc. It adopts big window cutting pattern 600M can, high efficiency switching power supply and new type tripod, optional open head frame, Dolby 4-2-4 stereophonic reproduction, so it is very suitable for education with electrical audio-visual aids of army, country, school, scientific research institution and institution of higher education.

Main features of 105 A:

Simple and reliable mechanical construction, convenient to maintain.

Open window type door, convenient to observe operational aspect of film path.

Adjusting construction of picture frame is adjusted through revolving the whole stopandgo movement, even brightness doesn't damage film.

Light source of projection is xenon lamp, which has high brightness and good color temperature.

Double machine semi-automatically switches over light, simple and reliable operation of changing machine.

Choose to install stereo sound reproducing installation, can project Daul 4-2-4 stereophonic film.

Main wearing parts are in common use with 105, 104-X, 103-X2 and 103-A projector.

Power supply: A.C.220V、50HZ（useable 60HZ while replacing motor sheave）

Projection frequency: 24F/S（rated voltage）

Picture wow: less than 0.03MM for horizontal，less than 0.03MM for vertical

Light source: 750W film spool xenon lamp 4Flux of effective light: more than2300L

Degree of uniformity of illumination : 60%

Actuating light source: 6V12W incandescent lamp

Working light: LED（long life）

Sound reproducing flutter: less than 0.35%

Can capacity: 600M big can（optional open can)

Weight of complete machine: 170KG

Best,

Rob.

Posted by Bart Smith (Member # 780) on November 27, 2008, 03:26 AM:

There is an interesting set of links to Chinese 16 & 35mm projector manufacturers on this page if anyone fancies a look. A couple of the links are dead.

Posted by Robert Tucker (Member # 386) on November 27, 2008, 03:39 AM:

I get your point Pat and I think for the extra cost I will stay with changeovers. I just need to find another good quality cheap short throw lens for flat projection and I will have justified having two machines. Yes Proyecson in Valencia, Spain makes these projectors along with 6000ft arms, which look very nice. You have choice of many long playing set ups as well as a fully suitcase style portable long playing machine which looks very professional.

Yes the switching type that the Spectra’s use is controlled by the rectifier. As soon as you press the other Xenon light button on top of the projector. It steels the voltage current away from the other projector that is to run out of film so that your second projector will light. Also the clutch plays a part in getting the cue marks set up just right before switch over. Yes from what I can tell it is a shutter drum that resembles a ducks beak when in rotation.

Don’t worry Pat pictures will be posted this weekend so you have a better look.

Rob.

Posted by Robert Tucker (Member # 386) on November 30, 2008, 09:09 PM:

As Promised some pictures of one of my Spectra's

[ December 02, 2008, 06:14 PM: Message edited by: Robert Tucker ]

Posted by Steven J Kirk (Member # 1135) on December 02, 2008, 08:17 AM:

The machine looks great. A classic design.

Posted by Christopher P Quinn (Member # 1294) on December 02, 2008, 09:11 AM:

I want one, Oh god i want one. [Frown]

Chris.

Posted by Michael O'Regan (Member # 938) on December 02, 2008, 09:34 AM:

Hi Robert,

What throw do you have there? What size picture do you get?

-Mike

Posted by Robert Tucker (Member # 386) on December 02, 2008, 05:56 PM:

Hi Michael.

The throw i have is about roughly 35ft, at the moment i use two lenses one prime lens for scope which is 80mm f2 and a 50mm f2 that fills a 12 ft screen very easily.

Can't believe how bright it is and i can't wait to use them in the back garden in the summer!

Some more pictures of this beauty

Xenon 1000watt lamp with fan coolers

The back inside of the projector

Posted by Patrick Walsh (Member # 637) on December 03, 2008, 12:42 AM:

Thanks for the pics Robert
Those machines are great! I better put my order in for a set!! [Big Grin]

Can you use normal 2000ft reels on the machine? I ask as all the pics I have seen show the film just like you have it running from a core to a core....
I hope you are pleased with them!
How are the aperture plates changed??
done any changeovers yet???? [Big Grin]

Pat

Posted by Robert Tucker (Member # 386) on December 03, 2008, 03:04 AM:

Hi Pat,

Have not actually used 2000ft reels as most of what I have is on cores, which makes life so much easier and keeps the film in top condition.

But I am sure you could use 2000ft reels with out a problem though not sure of the spindle size if they are 9.2mm standard European size or UK-US size.

Now the aperture plates are dead easy to change just a case of slipping them off and putting them back on. Also the springed-hinged gate comes out completely for easy cleaning.

Have not tried the change over process yet but when I do I will let you know how I get along. It sounds pretty easy mind you, plus having a clutch is probably a good thing so you can line things up just nicely for the second cue.

Best,

Rob.

Posted by Jean-Marc Toussaint (Member # 270) on December 03, 2008, 02:58 PM:

Rob, to deal with sound issues, I think Keith Wilton has replaced the original fan by a pair of computer cooling fans. Weren't you with us when we screened that reel of Pearl Harbour at the BFCC last year? It was the "inaugural flight" of his refurbished Spectra. Ask him at the next convention.

Posted by Robert Tucker (Member # 386) on December 04, 2008, 03:15 AM:

Jean, yes that is something that Keith and me spoke about in more detail at the last BFCC. Also gave him a copy of the instructions and maintenance Manuel that he did not have for his Spectra. Yes I think I was at the screening the previous year you spoke about when Keith had just refurbished his Spectra, duck tape and all that.

Thou I think I will keep the original cooling fans as having a monitor speaker under the projector really does drown the sound out. I do like to keep things original if I can. Do remember at one convention you went to when you picked up some bargain long playing 35mm reels. I was impressed that you were prepared to take this all the way back to Paris with you. Well that’s pure dedication for you!

Posted by Michael O'Regan (Member # 938) on December 04, 2008, 03:21 AM:

Robert,

That really is an excellent couple of projectors there. I am indeed envious. I have not been involved with 35mm for almost 25yrs now, but, seeing your setup there gives me some hope of getting back in there in the future.

Best,

-Mike

Posted by Robert Tucker (Member # 386) on December 04, 2008, 06:49 AM:

Mike,

Compared to the portable Philips FP3 that I also have at the moment. The Spectra’s are the next best thing to have for a professional portable machine.

Not be to envious as to be honest I am sure you’ll get back into 35mm sooner then you think. There are a lot of cinemas now converting to digital. So just ask around your local cinemas to see if they have any.

The only problem I do have these days is finding recent releases, as they are non-existent in the UK. The only place you can get hold of recent releases apart from (Universal and Disney releases which are a no no) is the US or OZ.

Best.

Robert.

Posted by Michael O'Regan (Member # 938) on December 04, 2008, 06:55 AM:

Hi Robert,

What is the situation regarding older or "classic" titles from the 30s, 40s, 50s in 35mm?

It seems to me that these are more readily available in 16mm. Is that correct to say, or are there 35mm prints easily found?

-Mike

Posted by Robert Tucker (Member # 386) on December 04, 2008, 05:04 PM:

Hi Michael,

I do have a varied collection on 35mm i suppose half is old features and the other being more recent. I think with older classics they are out there. Its just a question of being there at the right time at the right place sort of thing to snap them up.

A couple of years ago i met a guy who was selling off all his films which was partly 35mm features. He was a big DR Who fan, From that sale i got a varied amount of old material. Thunderbirds are go feature, some TV episodes of the Avengers. So they are out there it's just a question of looking in the right places.

Posted by Patrick Walsh (Member # 637) on December 05, 2008, 05:36 PM:

I used to run a ERNEMANN II 35mm projector at home in the garage, it was huge front shutter beast! I had about 40 features as well as boxes of trailers ( I worked as a projectionist for a while at a 2nd run theatre and I was paid with films instead of $ [Big Grin]

)
When we moved house it all had to go [Frown]

So some Spectras are now being orgainised though the Aussie agent and as part of the deal I am going to become the NZ agent for them so they are giving me a good deal on the projectors.
The portability is the selling point for me as well as their handsome design and size.
Robert if you ever come across a 35mm print of RAISE THE TITANIC I will buy it! it is the 35mm film I have been after for a long time! [Big Grin]

Done a changeover yet?? [Wink]

Pat

Posted by Lars Pettersson (Member # 762) on September 06, 2009, 02:23 AM:

Hi folks,

I´m pretty sure I´m putting this in the wrong place, but at least this is a thread on 35mm, so here goes; I recently stumbled upon a lens for a 35mm projector, it has a pretty short focal length & should mean a reasonably big image at a short throw.

It´s a ZEISS IKON ALINAR II 1:2 (kind of fast too) 70mm

Anyone interested in this lens, e-mail me at:

la55e dot p at telia dot com

Cheers
Lars

Posted by Robert Tucker (Member # 386) on January 20, 2011, 04:55 AM:

I have deceided to part with my 2 spectra's as i don't have the time to run these anymore. I will be selling this as a complete set which includes 9 xenon bulbs new parts, speaker amplifier reels, etc. If interested drop me a line.

UBB.classic^TM 6.3.1.2