grommet37 | 01 Apr 2014 11:43 p.m. PST |
I have heard great things about Ott-Lites and terrible things about their ballasts and customers service. I've been shopping around and see some have CFLs, some have LEDs, some have magnifiers, some have craft tray bases, and various other features. I also see there are some fairly inexpensive desk lamps and magnifiers out there as well. Tell me about your experiences with Ott-Lites, desk lamps, magnifiers and et cetera. Ott-Lites worth it? CFLs or LEDs? Floor or desk? Cheap alternatives? Improving customer service? Better QC? Please, shed some light on the subject of proper illumination, if you will. |
x42brown | 02 Apr 2014 2:00 a.m. PST |
At present I am using 3 clip on LED lamps link and find that I am getting as good results as ever. I use a magnifying visor link good enough for me (it was a gift) but if I was to replace it I would go for something similar of better quality. I find that combination works (for me) better than desk magnifiers with 'daylight' lamps. x42 Edit: The links are to UK companies but as the products originate in China I'm sure there will be similar available in the States |
Ssendam | 02 Apr 2014 2:15 a.m. PST |
I used to use a simple angle-poise lamp with a Daylight bulb, but recently bought an £80.00 GBP Slimline Magnifying Lamp which has been fantastic. The light is fine without using the magnifier but now I'm used to the magnifier it's been a real boon. I do use both old and new lights together though. |
John Treadaway | 02 Apr 2014 2:28 a.m. PST |
I use a Rolson Visor
Cheap, varying power via four different clip in lenses, directional illumination via a small led torch (which won't do all the lighting work – you'll still need lamps – but adds a directional extra help) and very cheap and quite comfortable. It's the only way I can do anything nowadays
John T |
Tony58 | 02 Apr 2014 3:03 a.m. PST |
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redbanner4145 | 02 Apr 2014 4:52 a.m. PST |
I bought my Ott light at the craft store very cheaply w/ a 40% off coupon. It's been working just fine for 5 years or so. |
Unrepentant Werewolf at work | 02 Apr 2014 5:58 a.m. PST |
The visors struck me as bulky and uncomfortable as I wear glasses I went with clip on x3 magnification "reading glasses" and a 100w bulb in the ceiling, works for me! |
krimso | 02 Apr 2014 6:02 a.m. PST |
I have two Ott Lights. Both purchased on sale for about 40% off. The first is the standard folding task lamp that plugs in and has been fantastic. I've been using it for several years. The second was a battery powered light with a magnifying glass and I found it to be cheaply made and after a few months just threw it into the scrap pile. |
Kierto | 02 Apr 2014 6:26 a.m. PST |
I use one of the following link cant recomend it enough.
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Saber6 | 02 Apr 2014 8:05 a.m. PST |
We have 2 portable and one desk lamp. All are the plug in type. 10+ years and NO issues (I don't think I've changed more than one bulb). I find it is easier to paint for extended periods as well as being able to tell the difference between Navy and Prussian blue |
krimso | 02 Apr 2014 8:10 a.m. PST |
@Kierto: Do you use the Hatchet on your desk to clean flash off of minis or when you get angry with them? |
Tacitus | 02 Apr 2014 8:53 a.m. PST |
I had a "where's Waldo" moment trying to find the hatchet! I have a 5 year old Ott light that hasn't failed yet. |
DuckanCover | 02 Apr 2014 10:38 p.m. PST |
My "Holy Grail" of magnifying work lights- unfortunately, they've been out of my reach for decades (price is in Australian Dollars). link Used one in a previous employ for parts inspection. Simply brilliant. Duck |
Kensboro | 18 Oct 2014 4:40 p.m. PST |
This is a good read if you're trying to decide on what kind of bulb/lighting is ideal for miniature painting: PDF link |