Digital BW, The Print

Hi there, I'm new to this group.

I'm currently using a 3year old Minolta Dimage Scan Dual (2700dpi) 
borrowed from a friend... a tool for learning about the process
before making the big-$$ plunge into equipment.

The B&W scans on this old-timer leave much to be desired, especially 
in capturing details from areas of high negative density.

Without provoking a religious war, any recommendations for a scanner 
for unmounted 35mm B&W negatives?  I'm shooting fine grain 100 & 400 
ASA, Leica optics, materials ranging from high contrast to those of 
long tonal scale!  Alas! I wan't it all!

Also, any recommended literature on this subject to augment the 
acquisition of knowledge through experience?

Thanks.

Dean Ritz
dritz@...