Digital BW, The Print

John wrote:


> For color work I really like it. It's tough, even with Ultrachrome,
> doesn't transfer blacks in a book format, great gamut, and it is the
> sharpest coating I've ever used. It has no oba's and is 100% rag.

I agree, it's becoming my benchmark paper.

> For black and white I don't like it as much it looks a 
>little cold with my neutral work regardless of the inkset.

With a good profile, this can be handled.  It does tend to go cold in the
shadows with a monotone inkset, however.  With the EZ inks, that is one
reason I recommend a warm in the Y position.  With the variable-tone
inksets, it's just a matter of using an appropriate curve or ICC.

> The only down side for color
> that I've experienced is its price, not cheap. 
> But I consider it that
> best paper Epson has released under their name.

I have some of the "real thing," but I mostly use the Premier Art version,
which is called Premier Art Fine Art Hot Press.  I like the 205 weight due
to its price.  www.atlex.com mow carries this paper.

> 
> 
> --- In DigitalBlackandWhiteThePrint@yahoogroups.com, "Peter Nelson"
> <pnweb@...> wrote:
> >
> > --- In DigitalBlackandWhiteThePrint@yahoogroups.com, "john dean"
> > <deanwork2003@> wrote:
> >
> > > The Epson Ultrasmooth paper was made for the K2 inks. It
> > > doesn't scuff like that.
> >
> > Actually, how would Ultrasmooth be?  (James Parker also suggested
> > this)  I know the MFA in Boston uses it (and a 9600 with Ultrachrome
> > inks) for their reproductions and I've seen them and they look very
> > good.  Luminous landscape gave it a good rating for dMax.    What are
> > the downsides?   I know it's a "natural" white, not a "bright" white,
> > but I don't think I'd miss the OBA's.  Experiences?