Digital BW, The Print

Somewhere in the midst of the torrent of posts about ever getting a 
simple B&W print, someone noted that Nikon software compresses the 
tonal range vis-a-vis Vuescan.  I scan with a Nikon LS-2000 using 
Nikon software and would like to hear more about this topic.  (I must 
say I am even more confused about optimal scanning resolution after 
the last few days -- I typically scan at either 360 or 400.)  I look 
at scanning as a means to get as much information from the negative 
into PS as possible and if Vuescan will pull more out of the 
negative, I would be willing to give it a try.  Any comments 
appreciated.

Steve