Digital BW, The Print

Marcus ... <luxlebis@...> wrote:

> **
>
>
> ... which would be the best route for me to go with an Epson r1430
> converted to a black and white only printer. [?] ...
>
There is not one size fits all.  A very flexible inkset like the UT3D or
the UT14 can help identify what types of papers and what print tones/hues
you like best.  Most then focus on one thing.  Once you determine your
preferences, then having a system that focuses more on that particular
print type makes sense.

...
> I´m already using the UT3d inkset in an r285 (r290 in US I think,I´m from
> Germany). I get very good results.
>
... I use the Sigma dp2 merrill for my b&w photography ...  I think I can
> nearly get a r1430 ...
>
Those files are amazing.  Going to a very sharp 1430 is a good idea.


> I read online about K7 vs. Eboni 6. Has eboni 6 really the 6 different
> dilution advantage like the cone inks (concerning resolution)?
>
Yes.  In both cases the printer and paper are the limiting factors, not the
inks.  The Eboni-6 has the  longevity advantage over all but the Cone
Carbon Sepia, which is essentially equal to Eboni due to being 100% carbon.

In terms of apparent sharpness and dynamic range, dyes on metallic paper
set the benchmark, in my view.  But they are not in the same archival
league as 100% carbon.


> In Germany there is an inksupplier called farbenwerk.com from where I got
> my UT3d set some years ago. They sell a 100% carbon matte set to
> (carbonprint museum), does anybody know if that is eboni6 ?
>
I don't know but will try to find out.


> With the UT3d inkset I have the opportunity to switch between matte and
> glossy printing. I get very good prints on the Ilford mono FB paper. But
> for the 1430 I think I will go for a matte set.
>
When displayed behind glass, the differences between glossy and matte tend
to be minimal.  When hand held and not glazed, most probably think the
glossy prints are sharper and have higher dynamic range.  This is largely
about display conditions and reflections.  So, the target display setting
matters.

As a practical matter, if you buy a set of carts first, you can see if you
like the inkset before investing too much money into it.  The 1400/1430 is
a very flexible platform.


> I read about Paul´s way to mix a matte set, but have problems to get all
> the ingredients here in Germany. Has anybody done that in Germany/Europe
> and can give me advice?
>
There are some there.  My recollection is that some have used Photo Flo 600
instead of 200, and it works in the generic base (see
http://www.paulroark.com/BW-Info/Ink-Mixing.pdf for formulas).  I think
most have still purchased the Edwal LFN from B&H in New York.  It comes in
a 4 oz. size.

Paul
www.PaulRoark.com


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