Kodak Polymax Fine-Art

This is the best all-round neutral/cool paper I have used and I am unable to pick fault. It is very similar to Oriental Seagull VC in terms of its characteristic curve and surface finish. Unlike Ilford MG1V (which has a very dull matt finish if air dried), it has a soft sheen, especially if dry mounted and an incredible luminousity (Like Seagul). It also hold onto highlight detail well when contrast is good throughout the mid tones and shadow. I find this is the problem with MG1V (with my neg dev technique) in that if the mids and shadows are good in contrast, you will be on the verge of losing the highlights. I belive it is hard to seperate this paper and Oriental only that Polyxmax is cheaper!! Super in Eukobrom - Nice cool tones, tho a little less cool than Forte polygrade. However, I prefer it over Polygrade in all respects.

Value, surface sheen...Glows!

Getting harder to get in UK...apparrently Kodak have already phased out small sizes.

Orinetal Seagul, Ilford MG1V, Agfa Classic (warmer) etc etc

Not used

Great paper which I use in 8x10, 11x14 and 16x20. The only problem I ever had with this paper was related to freshness, when I purchased it at a local photo shop that didn't sell much paper - this resulted in grey-muddy prints.

Great tonal gradation, deep rich blacks

Doesn't age well on the shelf of dealers. Must buy at stores where they do a large volume to ensure fresh stock.

Arista papers, Ilford Multigrade

Not needed

I'm going to talk about specifically one paper here, the Polymax 'C' surface, which a lot of photo stores don't carry - you may have to special order it.
This is a re-introduction (according to our local Kodak rep) of a surface popular in the 40's. It has a textured surface somewhat like the E surface in the RC papers and is a true double-weight.
It has no detectable 'whiteners'! The finish in the highlights is a rich creame color that is beautifully accented with a white matt. I started using it a couple of years ago when I recieved a test package and it has become my paper of choice for portraiture and nudes, anything where you wish to portray a soft, sensual feeling.
I've found it responds very well to either Dektol or Agfa MC developer. It has such a delicate, one of kind hue, that I've seen no reason to tone other than Selenium at 1/25 for archivallying.

Variable contrast
Consistency
Surface finish

None

Agfa MC Classic FB
Kodak Elite
Forte
All of them over the years.

Excellent