Digital BW, The Print

Hello Grant,

> To set the scene;
> I currently don't have an appropriate printer, I run WinXP with 
> Photoshop 7 - though this is also an interesting learning 
> experience!! And use 35mm Digital SLR.
> I am still confused as to wether I am better getting an Epson 1160 
> or the 1290!! Seems the 1160 is tried and tested while the 1290 has 
> some other advantages!!
> 
> Going with your previous advice of BO printing with the option to 
> expand at a later date would you have a preference or
recommendation?

Well, hard to recommend something for someone else.   Problem with
buying the bigger printer now is that some ink/CIS/software systems
are available for the 1160/1280 but not for the 2200, and vice versa.
 What if you buy one and a few months later, knowing more, decide you
really want the other?  Plus, things are changing rapidly.  By this
fall when you understand the various systems better there may be
something new that changes the whole equation (such as empty carts or
R9 system for the 2200  - either of those are possible and would open
up avenues that aren't available now).

My main point was to get started as easily and inexpensively as
possible and build up your experience for a few months until you know
enough to make an educated decision on the more expensive hardware. 
I'd recommend one of the smaller letter size models (the new 980 is
under $200, or find a factory refurb - I'm using a refurb 870 and it's
great).  When you reach the point where you know which way you want to
go, the smaller printer can be put back into color service or reserved
for small jobs or something.

As for 1160 vs 1280, the 1160 is 4-ink, unchipped carts, and larger
droplets.  The 1280 is 6-ink, chipped carts, variable droplets and
1440 dpi.  Paul Roark said recently that the 1160 was easier to switch
different inks, but the 1280 produced better results.  So, depending
on what you want to do...

There are many choices and it's hard to decide without understanding
them.  It takes a while for it all to sink in.

Bottom line is you either want to make an uninformed choice now and
take a chance, or wait until you know more about it.  If you decide to
wait, then the next choice is either to do no actual printing during
the wait period and just read up and educate yourself until you know
what you want, or you can do some BO printing on an inexpensive
printer while you're waiting and be adding actual experience to the
equation, and building up your Photoshop skills as well.  IMO, you
will learn an enormous amount that can't be equaled by any amount of
study, and you will have a lot more confidence when you make the final
decision.  I hope this helps.

Regards,
Clayton


Info on black and white digital printing at    
http://www.cjcom.net/digiprnarts.htm