Digital BW, The Print

Hello everyone,

I currently print on Epson Photo 915 (based on 890) with MIS UT2 inks
and am quite happy with the results. Carbon prints look really great.
But now I am looking for a printer capable to print A3 format. I think
I will stick to MIS inks: UT or FS. There are several printers to
choose. 1290 is still available and quite inexpensive. There are also
1800, 2100 and 2400 models. They have individual ink cartridges and
supposedly higher print resolution. 
Is there anybody who tried the 1290 and any of the newer printers? Do
they offer advantages to the B&W printers? Thanks in advance for your
input.

Giedrius