Digital BW, The Print

Hello everyone,

I've followed this group for a few months and find it very helpful.  
This is my first post.  I have several questions.  I have an Epson 
1280 that I use for color printing.  Based on the horror stories I 
read here, I haven't used anything other than Epson inks.  I also 
have an Epson R220 with MIS UT black inks.  It has produced very fine 
quality prints with little effort, truly amazing for the $50 that I 
paid for it. And no clogging.  Here are my questions:

1. I'd like to make larger B&W prints but haven't had much luck using 
the 1280.  I don't want to lose my 1280 as my primary printer from 
clogging.  Is it reasonable to swap inks in the 1280 - say from Epson 
dye inks to MIS UT inks - back and forth?  Am I asking for trouble?

2. I'd entertain buying an Epson 2400.  Can I get high quality color 
and B&W from the 2400 without the risk of clogged heads in 6 months.  
Can I use the recommended Epson inks exclusively?

3. Today I printed a B&W image on the 1280 with Epson inks on Innova 
Fiba F.  I don't see the variable reflectivity in the blacks like I 
see with the MIS inks - like brassing.  I like that the Epson inks 
produce a consistent reflective surface. How can I avoid that with 
MIS UT inks?  The greys show the normal glossy paper finish (actually 
more satin), but the deepest blacks have a matte appearance that is 
distracting.

Sorry for the many questions.  Just need some advice on how to 
proceed.  Also, thanks to all the experts who offer up their advice 
and knowledge.  Very helpful, indeed.