Selecting A Flatbed Scanner

Although dynamic range (DR) is less of a factor than in previous years, it can still be a useful indicator when trying to distinguish between scanner performances. For example, the entry-level Heidelberg LinoScan 1400 reports a 3.4 maximum density (the DR being closer to 3.0), while the Agfa Arcus comes in at 3.2 DR. On the other hand, the ScanMaker III and Duoscan models claim a 3.4 DR. Needless to say, most of the more expensive midrange scanners, and all of the high-end machines will now exceed these numbers.