Digital BW, The Print

on 23/11/02 12:01 am, Richard Prull at
DigitalBlackandWhiteThePrint@yahoogroups.com wrote:

> Having used an Epson 2200 for a number of weeks now, I believe that Miguel's
> list of issues and concerns is dead on. Unless changes are made, I
> personally would not print on anything other than matt paper. Increasing the
> contrast of the image restores much of the "punch" that you see in the dye
> based prints, but it's not a perfect solution. The only solution I see to
> the issue of fragility is to recognize it and handle the prints accordingly.

I too have been using a 2100 (UK designation for 2200) for a few weeks and
would also agree with Miguel Aleman's list or problems with the Ultrachrome
inks. I would however add a few observations. The 'lack of punch' mentioned
was a big disappointment but I immediately profiled the printer for both
Epson semi-gloss and archival matte using a 729 patch and the ColorSavvy
Colour Mouse (part of the Pantone ColorVision system).

Looking at the 729 patches from the 2100 (printed without profile or printer
colour management from the Adobe RGB space) you could see a finer tonal
gradation than with either of my other dye printers (I also use a 950 and an
older 1200). 

Once profiled I could see I was dealing with a wide gamut printer as I could
print highlight detail and shadows that did not print without blowing out or
blocking up on the 950 dye inks (similarly profiled).

Can't argue with the 'bronzing' comments - it's ugly. The 'haze' is largely
dissipated by profiling (I get very different results using Epson's supplied
profiles - but shouldn't). I've accepted a trade between perceived 'lack of
punch' for better shadow and highlight detail (particularly on matte paper).
I think the lower Dmax of the inks contributes to the perceived lack of
'punch'. I've not experienced any problems with flaking.

My major criticism is the complete lack of compatibility with any of my
preferred paper stock - I do not want to be limited to the unpleasant white
of Epson Archival Matte. Any experiments found a good sating, pearl of
semi-gloss paper or a good white matte paper?

--
Regards
David Prakel

Centre of Britain PhotoWorkshops Partnership