Digital BW, The Print

Eric,

>...  So it looks like if I get Piezo inks, I will
>need to get some software, which costs money.  But what are my other
>ink options?

With the MIS variable-mix/tone options all that is needed is Photoshop -- no
extra software.  Also, compare ink prices.  Bulk MIS ink is very cheap.

> I've heard of MIS, UT (what is UT anyway?)

"UT" is MIS "Ultra Tone B&W."  It's the newest, state-of-the-art
variable-tone inkset.

With a variable-tone/mix inkset, you can print at various tones without
having to change the inkset.  These inksets are basically raw carbon pigment
(warm) quads that have a light, low-gamut cool toner in one ink position.
The tone is determined by how much toner is put into the mix.  Control is
via Photoshop image adjustment curves.

There are pre-made & free curves available for a number of printers.  See
the MIS chart that lists the printers that are supported.  I currently use
the 1280 with UT inks and have the most and best curves for that printer
family (the 1290 and 1270 are can run the 1280 driver, at least with PCs &
there are letter-size versions of these printers).

> ... Can I do basic B&W with whatever Epson comes in with?

If you want good B&W, get a printer that is supported by the quadtone
inksets.  The color inkset all end up with cross-overs and tint that are not
pleasing.

>... I was at Piezo and liked the Selenium.  ...
>  Do other ink companies offer that?

The UT neutral curve gives a "selenium" tone.  This tone is neutral with a
magenta bias.  I mixed it to match my lightly selenium-toned silver prints.

All this is a bit overwhelming for someone who is just starting to look at
B&W inkjet printing.  Because of this, I'm now tuning a cheap Epson C82 to
print with no "workflow" (special software or procedure).  This will allow
people to get away from the expensive Photoshop.  Right now my target is
people re-producing old photos (genealogists and scrapbookers).  It might be
that others will want a super-cheap entry printer to see what they are
getting into, however.

Paul
http://www.PaulRoark.com