Digital BW, The Print

Greetings,


(I understand that this topic has been hashed over many times here, 
but due to the ever-changing state of the art, I figure I'd pose the 
question again.)

I'm currently in the market for a digital darkroom setup to be used 
primarily for B&W development.  I'd like to solicit your advice on 
what I products/systems I should be looking at.   The only 
requirement I have is that the prints are archival and of 
professional quality.

Specifically, I'd like to know more about the following:

Film Scanners.   (I'd still like to shoot with my 35mm.)  Which ones 
give the best output at the best price?  Is there any image 
degradation?  Can the scans be used to produce professional prints?

Digital Cameras.  Which are the best for B&W photography?

Quad Tone Printing.  I've heard that the best price/performance 
option is using the MIS inks with Cone's drivers.  Are any of you 
using this combination?  If so, what is your opinion on the combo?   
Do you know of any sample images available on the web for me to use 
for comparisons?    Which printer should I buy (I want large-
format)?  I like the looks of the Epson 1520 because of the low-cost, 
but can it really produce professional quality prints?

Software.  WYSIWYG software, does it really work?  What's the best?  
Any other "must-have" software out there?

Internet Resources and Books.   Any links to sources on the web would 
be appreciated. Also, if you know of any good books on Digital B&W...


Thanks in advance and happy holidays.  SH