Digital BW, The Print

--- In DigitalBlackandWhiteThePrint@yahoogroups.com, "chipcarterdc" 
<chipcarterdc@h...> wrote:
> I'm hoping you all can help out here with figuring out what options are 
> available for grayscale inksets in 44inch Epson models.  I know that the 
> various options have been discussed in bits and pieces over time, but I'm 
> trying to get the big picture.  Here's what I think I know -- please add, correct, 
> disagree, etc.
> 
> (1) Epson 9600 w. PiezoTone inks, NOT, as I understand it, with the Piezo B&
> W ICC system -- if I read their website correctly, this is not currently an option 
> with the 9600 unless you get StudioPrint RIP, which only runs on Windows (I 
> have a Mac).  If anyone cares to elaborate on the differences between the 
> PiezoTone system and the Piezo B&W ICC system, I'd appreciate it (Inkjetmall 
> does have an FAQ on the differences, but it's written under the assumption 
> that you already know how the PiezoTones system works, which I don't)
> 
> (2) Epson 9000 w. Piezo B&W ICC system (I have no idea what the 
> differences would be of the 9000 v. the 9600 for grayscale inks, nor do I know 
> if you can even still buy a 9000 anywhere)
> 
> (3) Epson 9600 w. the Septone system, EXCEPT this is only an option if you 
> run Windows.  The Photoshop plug-in does work for Mac, but only works for 
> the 2200.  (Same is true for Septone with the 9000)
> 
> (4) Epson 9600 w. MIS's UltraTone 7 system (not yet available)
> 
> So, if I'm understanding the options correctly, there is currently no grayscale 
> inkset for the 9600 that will work with Mac (short of running Virtual PC).  
> Meaning, for wide-format grayscale inks, either (a) find a 9000 (if you have a 
> Mac) or (b) buy a Windows computer.
> 
> Any options I'm missing?

Hi Chip,

Did you get QTR and blending to work for your 9600?   It's not a dedicated
B&W setup but a lot of people are satisfied with the black and light-black
results.  (They have bought ImagePrint for that capability).  It's very close
to a full B&W set.  If you still want a light-gray ink for the ultimate in smooth
highlights you could replace Cyan or Magenta with a light gray ink from
MIS Ultratones.  There was some interest in doing this for the 2200 but
I think in the end the standard results (UC inks with QTR) were so close that
people figured on keeping the color capability.

Anyway I'm curious what you think about the current B&W results and
whether you really feel it necessary to go for a light-gray.

Roy