Digital BW, The Print

I want to thank everyone for their very informative responses to my 
questions.  I still have not had time to read everything carefully 
yet that has been posted, but I plan to, and appreciate the links.  I 
did want to let everyone know, though, that I live in the states - we 
just recently adopted a child from Guatemala and my yahoo profile 
still reflected that, so getting supplies won't be a problem.  I 
currently own an alps md-1300 and getting supplies is a problem, plus 
it doesn't work for b&w, so I am looking to replace it.  Once I get 
time to check all the posted links hopefully my purchasing decision 
will become clearer.  I do already own Photoshop 5.5, not sure how 
that compares to 7 (i run windows 2000 not mac), but all the 
discussions about profiles and tweeking settings I am not yet 
familiar with, but could learn in time.  I just wanted to make the 
best purchasing decision at this point and can take my time learning 
the rest.  I believe I would pick the Canon if I didn't care about 
b&w, mostly because I keep reading about Epsons clogged heads (I 
won't be printing daily) and Canon's faster speed. Then there is the 
pigment advantage for the epsons.  But, I really like the b&w, just 
on an hobby level, so that will influence my decision too.  Thanks 
again and any additional information will be very appreciated.  Happy 
New Year everyone!

Cindy Ley