Digital BW, The Print

Hello Nathan,

>Thank you kindly Clayton for the suggestion.  I think I'll start 
>searching for another Epson 7600 ---this time with a warranty.  
>It is a machine that seems tried and true.  After just one week 
>of waiting, I can hardly stand the thought of waiting months.  

Understood, but think about this ("months" might have been to big a
word) - In a relatively short time (a week or two?) the new printers
will be shipping and there probably will be lots of 7600s for sale at
good prices from folks upgrading to the 7800, so by waiting a bit
longer a better deal could be found.  But, if you are willing to wait
that long, a bit more time will probably produce some real feedback on
the 7800 BW quality - you'd be kicking yourself if the 7800 turns out
to be BW nirvana and you just bought a 7600.   Just food for thought.


>Any suggestions in how to avoid a machine with micro banding? 
>Any particular models that seem less inclined to this malady 
>than others?

Best I can tell from reading this forum, it seems to vary from one to
another.  I sold an 870 once to someone who had one and wanted
another.  He said mine was smoother than his.  Reports about 1280s
have been all over the map re clogging and banding.   Re the new K3
printers, Epson did say something to the effect that the 17" and
larger models will have tighter testing/alignment standards than the
smaller models, so that may be in your favor (can anyone fill in here
with some details?).

 
>Incidentally, I have been doing alot of reading and research on 
>the digital process for fine art photography.  Your writings have 
>been among the most helpful and important to my getting started.  
>I thank you for your generosity in sharing your expertise so openly. 

You're welcome, and thanks for the kind remarks.  Good luck in your
printer quest, let us know what happens.  


Regards,
Clayton


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