Digital BW, The Print

(I quickly reviewing posts, I'm not sure if this one was answered, if so,
sorry for the redundancy.)

> ...I'm using a 1280 with MIS UT2 inks. ...
> I printed the test image on Epson Enhanced Matte.
> I converted the image to RGB and applied Paul's
> neutral curve for EEM. When the image was printed all steps were
> distinguishable [the] black was black but it seemed that the preceding
> grey values were lighter than should be. ...

I'm moving all my workflows to the ICC method so that people can more easily
linearize their systems and so that the prints will match the monitors
better.  I'll have some 1280 ICCs posted soon.

I (and many others doing B&W) used custom dot gain curves to match the
monitor to the print in the past.  I understand this is more than most want
to mess with.

Printers differ slightly from each other -- as do all paper and (more so)
inkset batches.  So, doing custom curves is the best way.  I tweak my curves
as needed, but, again, I understand most don't want to mess with this.  The
ICC method with Roy Harrington's "Create ICC" will allow everyone with a
decent scanner to linearize their systems.  See
http://home1.gte.net/res09aij/Making_B-W_ICCs.htm

As another interim approach, consider changing your gray working space to
Dot gain 20%.  The monitor might match the print better.  (Change the space
before opening the file or convert the file to this space.)

Paul
www.PaulRoark.com