Digital BW, The Print

Tom wrote:

>...
>My idea is to compare VM on 1160 and 1270 side by side and then pick
>one and set up a CIS on that printer.

The winner might simply be the one with the most refined adjustment curve
(and it might be different for the different tones).  If both machines had
equally well-written curves, I'd bet on the 1270 (at least for those who
really get their noses into the prints).  The six ink machines are slightly
smoother.  While I think each generation of Epson is probably better, some
of the 1200 outputs I've seen are about as smooth as one can get.

>... I wonder if there isn't some more formal way the rest of us cannot
>pitch in and help you in your work?

Writing the curves is really where the work is.  I was hoping people would
write transfer function or adjustment curves to act as paper profiles and
share them with the group.  Several people are looking at ways to automate
the writing of the curves.  A WYSIWYG system for the tones would have some
benefits also -- at least with split toning.

I'll want to have a number of people test strips of the "non-warming" ink
when I think I've got a final mix on that.  I don't trust my fluorescent
light fader to be representative of all conditions.  So, exposing test
strips to a number of different light sources and oxidizers would make sure
there are no embarrassing surprises.  (I have the "non-warming" in quotes
because how it reacts varies with the paper.)

Paul
http://www.PaulRoark.com