Digital BW, The Print

> ... but when using the EZ inks and Epson drivers, it
> seems to me that the sliders have less effect with the R220 than they
> do with the C86.

I think you're right.  The slider idea was originally used for the 1160 with
the variable-tone inkset, and it worked reasonably well -- over a narrow
range, of course.  With the hextone printers, however, the ramps seem to get
messed up much faster.  You'll notice for the 220 I really don't use them at
all with the R2 inkset.  (See
http://home1.gte.net/res09aij/R220_R2_Readme.htm) 


> 
> Using the UT2 inks with the R220 sounds like a *very* attractive
> setup,...

I now prefer the UT7 inks (lower gamut toners) and ink positions.  

> 
> My question is, will using Epson driver and sliders with the R220
> provide at least approximately the same amount of control over the
> range of tones as that same approach provides with the 1280?

Perhaps.  It really depends on whether you use the sepia.  That is where
part of the UT2 slider range comes from.  Since I no longer use the sepia
like that, the sliders with what I actually use don't give as much range as
the original UT2.

I used the sliders with an ICC for linearization with the R220 with UT7 with
a second LC in the Y position and was able to get a mild range around the
neutral point.

I also have ICCs that control the UT7 on the 220.  That's the easiest and
most flexible route so far.


Paul
www.PaulRoark.com