Digital BW, The Print

i have just attained an epson 1280 for strictly black and whites. i 
have read threads and know that of course piezo stands alone i have 
also read that lyson does a great job. my question is i am new to 
black and white and was wondering is it worth paying 299.00 for 
piezo starter B&W kit or should i just buy the cartridges and go at 
it blind with no profiles. and if so should i go lyson or piezo. i 
want the prints to last with no fading. i know its pretty much 
personal taste but i would like to here those of you who have been 
in it for awhile. thank you for your time and happy holidays. joe