Ilford Multigrade IV RC Deluxe VC Variable Contrast Paper - Glossy

In this review of the Ilford Multigrade IV RC Deluxe Glossy paper the bottom line is simple: photographers and darkroom students who need consistent, bright black and white prints will find this sheet reliable and good value. The paper is part of the established MULTIGRADE system and the reviewer found its cool to neutral image tone and bright base tint make it especially forgiving under different viewing lights. Practical for classes, pinhole projects, and proofing, the main reason to buy is dependable print quality that works with existing MULTIGRADE filters and enlarging equipment.

Key Features

• Variable contrast compatibility: Works seamlessly with the MULTIGRADE filter system so users can control contrast without changing paper types.
• Glossy surface: The glossy finish yields deeper-looking blacks and a crisp highlight rendition that benefits prints intended for display.
• Bright base tint: A bright base tint helps maintain image neutrality and makes the paper appear consistent under daylight or fluorescent lighting.
• Resin coated base: The 190 g/m2 RC construction is easy to handle, processes quickly, and dries flat for simple post-processing.
• Classroom and workshop friendly: Packs of 25 sheets are practical for classes, pinhole experiments, and group darkroom sessions without committing to a large case.

Who It's For

Darkroom students, educators, and hobbyists who need a dependable variable contrast sheet will appreciate this paper. Its compatibility with MULTIGRADE filters and the consistent cool to neutral tone make it a sensible choice for learning printing techniques and for producing display-ready glossy prints.

Professional fine art printers seeking heavyweight baryta textures or specialist tones might look elsewhere; this is a standard 190 g/m2 RC glossy sheet rather than a heavyweight fiber-base or textured paper. Those who dislike some glossiness should also test a single sheet first, as customers have mixed opinions about the gloss effect.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reliable print quality that renders strong blacks and clear midtones on the glossy surface.
• Compatible with existing MULTIGRADE filters and enlarging equipment for flexible contrast control.
• Good value for classroom or workshop use with convenient 25-sheet packs.
• Neutral to cool image tone holds up well under daylight and fluorescent viewing.

Cons

• Gloss level may be too shiny for some tastes; customers report mixed opinions about the finish.
• Not a heavyweight fiber-base paper, so it lacks the tactile feel some fine art printers prefer.

Specifications

Brand	Ilford
Product	MULTIGRADE IV RC DELUXE Glossy
Size	8x10 in
Sheets per pack	25
Surface	Glossy
Weight	190 g/m2
Compatibility	MULTIGRADE variable contrast filters and equipment

Our Verdict

The Ilford Multigrade IV RC Deluxe Glossy is a practical, good-value choice for students and hobbyists who want consistent black and white prints with controllable contrast. Its neutral color tone, glossy finish that enhances blacks, and RC convenience make it a strong everyday darkroom paper, though printmakers seeking heavyweight or textured stock should consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this paper compatible with MULTIGRADE filters?
Yes. MULTIGRADE IV RC DELUXE is part of the MULTIGRADE system and works with existing MULTIGRADE filters and equipment.

What is the paper weight and base type?
The sheet uses a 190 g/m2 resin coated (RC) base, which processes quickly and dries flat.

How does the image tone look under normal lighting?
The image tone reads cool to neutral in both daylight and fluorescent light, helped by the paper's bright base tint.