Digital BW, The Print

> > ... roughly 1.79 vs. 1.70. . . 


> ... Does it really look "much better?" ...

Another variable that is out there is that some of our instruments read
slightly differently.  I've never measured a matte paper above 1.75.  

So, with that in mind, just looking at what my instrument reads (with white
paper under the sample -- another variable), I consider 1.60 as the minimum
dmax I'll accept in a matte paper.  1.65 is very good.  Above this, I don't
see much difference in real photos and normal lighting.  1.7+ is outstanding
and, in side-by-side comparisons under bright lights, one can definitely see
the difference.  In real display, however, I don't think it would make much
difference above a 1.65 matte dmax.  It's the art, not the dmax that matters
once an acceptable level is reached, but we always want and strive for more.

I use UltraSmooth or Premier Art Hot Press (same coating, I believe) even
though on some of my printers they have a dmax of only about 1.63.  The
smoothness of the finish and other factors outweigh the minor dmax weakness.
It's over my 1.6 bottom line, so I'm not too concerned (but I'd love to see
1.7 on it).

Paul
www.PaulRoark.com