Digital BW, The Print

I am very close to purchasing an Epson 1280, as it is in my price 
range w/ the Epson rebate. The 2200 is just out of range. Among 
other things, I wish to make fine art B&W  13x19 prints which I 
had previously done on a Kodak XL7700. I would value any 
insight or recommendations as to best ink, archival & otherwise, 
semi-gloss/luster media combinations et al. Is this the best 
printer in this price range for this type of work? I do not want a 
CIS system just now. Can I swap out ink tanks to conserve the 
"better" ink, or is that not recommended? Thanks,  -Barry