Andrea,

I have used both.  Dako wins hands down.  The stains look better, the
reagents are more affordable, the technical/customer service with Dako is
superior (I've heard Ventana has turned over a new leaf and now has some
kind of technical/customer service in place whereas there was nothing about
5 yrs ago when I was using the Ventana ES autostainer).  Also, every step
along the way is modifiable with the Dako so you can tweak the stains to
your pathologist's liking while the Ventana is a prefabricated kit system
which is difficult to modify.

These are my OPINIONS only.  Complaints about me expressing these views and
my free speech are unwarranted and very unwelcome.

Glen A. Dawson  BS, HT & QIHC (ASCP)
Lead IHC Technologist
Milwaukee, WI



-----Original Message-----
From: Andrea C. Bilger [mailto:abilger@ptd.net]
Sent: Wednesday, July 16, 2003 8:57 PM
To: histonet@pathology.swmed.edu
Subject: Ventana and Dako stainers


My hospital is looking at purchasing a new immuno stainer and special
stainer.  We have looked at both the Ventana and the Dako.  I have my own
opinions and preferences but would like to hear what others think.  I would
especially like to hear from people who have used both company's machines.
Which did you prefer and why.  Thanks so much for your help.

Andrea