Need help choosing a slide projector

[mjs1973]

I have decided that I want an inexpensive slide projector, but I have know idea what makes a good one, and what doesn't. About the only thing that I know I want, is auto focus, but other than that, I don't see a lot of extra options available, other than say a remote. My search just started about a half hour ago, and all I have focused on so far is Kodak projectors. The models range from 760, 850, 860 and Ektographic III. I have no idea what sets each model apart from the other. Any ideas? I am not set on Kodak, so if you have any other suggestions, feel free to let me know. My price range is less than $100.

[another view]

Tell you the truth, they're all cheap anymore - kind of a sign of the times. I'd stick with a Kodak Ektagraphic for a couple of reasons. Kodak carousel projectors are pretty much a standard, and your chance of getting help, additional carousels, bulbs, etc are pretty good. You'll also find a big selection of lenses.

The Ektagraphic projectors were (I don't think Kodak makes any projectors anymore) the professional heavy-duty ones and had a lot more metal parts internally than the standard non-Ektagraphic projectors. They'll last longer and I guess they line up images more precisely in the same spot from frame to frame which really only matters if you're using a dissolver. This is the unit that fades one slide into the next. I don't think you'll have a problem finding a lot of choices under $100.

FWIW, I just took a look at mine for the first time in at least a year. It's an Ektagraphic III AT and has a long power cord and long remote control cord, both of these are pretty handy features. Autofocus is pretty good on it too, but like any AF camera it's not perfect.

[mjs1973]

Thanks for the advice Steve! I priced them new, and I couldn't believe how expensive they are. A new Ektagraphic goes for just under $600!

[Trevor Ash]

I have a very old (bough off ebay) kodak somethin-er-other (all metal I believe) with extra bulb, two carousels, wired remote, and auto-focus although I was never quite sure autofocus was working as it's supposed to (or at all). Anyway, you're welcome to use it indefinetely until you are certain what you want. It was actually a gift for me and I thought I'd get heavy into it and then I bought a digital camera. The only reason I haven't sold it ot thrown it away is that it was a very thoughtful gist my family gave me a few years ago. Unfortunately, I have ZERO use for it now.

Lemme know via email or pm if you're interested. No strings attached I promise

It's at my folks house right now and I can't remember the model number. It even smells ancient

[mjs1973]

Thanks for the offer Trevor! I dug out one of my dads old projectors last night to tinker around with. It was making lots of funny noised when I turned it on, but both the fan and the bulb worked. So I took it apart, and messed around with it, and put it back together, and it seems to be working!!!! I'm going to give it a try and go from there. I found a blade from and old pocket knife inside the projector. I wonder how that got there...

Thanks again Trevor, and if I change my mind, I will let you know.