Digital BW, The Print

Fred,

> A couple of questions for the group:
> 1)  The L=17 value corresponds to an RGB result of something like 
46,46,46 ... is this the best (darkest) black I can expect to obtain 
using EEM? 

A measured L* value of 16 - 17 is generally about the best you can 
expect from EEM.  Different inks may give a little more or less Dmax, 
but that is generally the range.  Some people have tried various 
coatings to improve dmax, laminations, etc.  

> (Note: The 100%(black) result on Premium Luster (neutral-3 profile) 
was L=6)

Yep, glossy, satin and other coated papers will give you great Dmax, 
like you said, typically in the L* range of 4 to 10, again depending 
on paper, ink, etc.  Many people are beginning to use these papers 
and spray them to reduce bronzing, etc.  Mounting behind glass also 
helps.

> 2)  What alternate papers could I choose that would improve my 
blacks?, and how much improvement should I expect?

Kirkland Glossy (Costco) gives great dmax for a glossy paper, but is 
available only in 8.5X11 max to my knowledge.  Epson Prem Glossy, Ep 
Prem SemiMatte, and other will give pretty good dmax.

> 3)  Is there a way to convert my measurements to an equivalent 
dMax... alternatively, how can I measure dMax?

Bruce Lindbloom's site has a companding calculator which converts 
between L* and density.  www.brucelindbloom.com.

> 4)  Would working in Roy's recently posted Lab grayscale workspace 
permit moves towards improvement?

You get a better view of what you will see in print, but no, it is a 
paper/ink limitation.

Lou