Digital BW, The Print

Help!

I'm ready to take the plunge into high quality black&white printing 
but need some guidance.  Here's what I'm considering and would really 
appreciate some feedback into the pros and cons of printers and inks.

Since large format isn't terribly important to me at this point I am 
considering using either my current Epson Stylus 870 or purchasing a 
new Stylus 980 (they're $100 with rebate!).  In either case I would 
dedicate the printer for B&W printing only.  Am I going to see 
substantially better output from the 890?  Do both MIS and 
Piezography support the 890?

Where inks are concerned, I think I'm as confused as any newbie.  MIS 
or Piezography??  I've researched both and it appears MIS is a bit 
cheaper to get started with and can utilize the stock Epson driver 
(no additional expense for the Cone driver) - however, it appears 
that the new Piezography system will no longer require a custom 
driver either.  Is one easier to use than the other?  What are the 
pros/cons of both systems?  What's going to give me the most bang for 
the buck?

I did a search on this group and wasn't able to find any kind 
of 'getting started' doc, but if someone knows of one I'd really 
appreciate the link.  And any thoughts, suggestions and/or 
recommendations would be GREATLY appreciated!!

Regards,
Bob Biess