Developer · Monobath
Cinestill Df96 Monobath
AvailableMonobathLiquid Concentrate
Single-step monobath that develops and fixes simultaneously. Temperature controls contrast rather than time. Processing over 28°C pushes negatives, below 20°C pulls density. Requires good agitation and temperature discipline.
- Type
- Liquid
- Process
- Monobath
- Temperature
- 27°C
- Dilutions
- 1
- Capacity
- 16
- Shelf life
- Powder concentrate: indefinite shelf life; ready-to-use liquid: not stated separately (CineStill)
20–28°C (68–82°F)
rolls per litre
concentrate
Characteristics
GrainProminent, level 3 of 3
AcutanceModerate, level 2 of 3
ContrastHigh, level 3 of 4
Increased contrast compared to traditional development
Dilutions
| Ratio | Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| stock | Replenishable | Single bath that develops and fixes. CineStill sells it as a reusable ready-to-use liquid or a powder concentrate. |
Shelf life
- Concentrate
- Powder concentrate: indefinite shelf life; ready-to-use liquid: not stated separately (CineStill)
- Working Solution
- Mixed chemistry 1 year in a sealed bottle; once used, reuse within 2 months. Store in a tightly capped, full container (CineStill)
CineStill: 16+ rolls per 1000 ml; reuse until processing time becomes unacceptable. The solution yellows then turns dark amber as it exhausts; film still finishes processing but eventually gives thin negatives.
Development times
| Film | Dilution | ISO | Time | Temp |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tri-X 400 | stock | 400 | 6m | 21°C (70°F) |
| HP5 Plus | stock | 400 | 6m | 21°C (70°F) |
| T-Max 400 | stock | 400 | 12m | 21°C (70°F) |
| Fomapan 400 Action | stock | 400 | 6m | 21°C (70°F) |
Full guides for Df96 Monobath
Often used for
Convenience and speedTravel and location workBeginners wanting single-step processQuick test rolls
Limitations & warnings
- Greatly increases grain and contrast vs traditional developers
- Temperature-sensitive: above 28°C risks reticulation, below 20°C causes underdevelopment
- Early batches had reticulation issues — ensure proper temperature control
- Not archival-grade compared to separate dev/fix
Descriptions combine manufacturer specifications with community experience. Subjective assessments reflect common sentiment among photographers and may not match your results.