Digital BW, The Print

Just joined the discussion group and I hate to ask something that's 
probably already been discussed but.....I'm looking at at a digital 
B&W darkroom in the near future and among all the things there are to 
be confused about, I've got questions about the software set-up. 
Piezo has had well documented problems, most seemingly related to 
hardware compatability (banding, etc.)and is expensive. On the other 
hand, MIS (presumably with an Epson driver) looked like Tri-X in 
Rodinal vs. a 4X5 negative compared to the Piezo system in the "blow-
ups" on Cone's website. The MIS website snipes at Piezo - even saying 
one of their workflow authors preferred the Epson workflow to Piezo. 
Who knows what to believe. It would be nice if the MIS inks offered a 
real alternative using Piezo software. I didn't think most people 
were too impressed with any Epson driver. The MIS website also 
mentions a coming B-curve plug-in. Is it a new driver than replaces 
the Epson?

Finally, I saw a website with a program called Icefields that 
predated Piezo and looked like serious stuff but it may have required 
a third party RIP to work at its peak. The website has since 
disappeared. Anyone know anything about it? 

Has anyone used MIS and Piezo together? Icefields? I understand Epson 
may even come out with a dedicated B & W printer so you hate to start 
down the wrong path.....

Thanks.