Digital BW, The Print

>The Alpha I have wouldn't even load in my C86 ...

The Premier Art Hot Press 325 won't load in my C88 either.  

>... your C86 Readme. Which papers don't mottle badly? 

I'd always start with Photo Rag and see if it prints OK.  Also, use a test
file, not one that may have mottling in the image.  Eliminate as many
variables as possible.  If there is still mottling, try reducing the ink
load by selecting a different media type setting in the driver.

Truth is, I don't consider the C8x printers top notch matte paper printers.
The 220 was the value champ there.  The C88 is a champ with some glossy
papers, and it's the easiest to re-load with the EZ ink system.

>I was planning on picking up a refurbed 2200 ...

They don't last long at Epson.  Check out eBay.

>... got an Epson 4990 to scan my 6x6 and 4x5, 
> 135 is out of the question quality-wise. 

The typical consumer flatbed is as stretch for medium format also.  I used
to enlarge to 8x10 and then scan the internegative (positive, actually).  If
you can find a good used Nikon 8000 for a reasonable price, it'll be well
worth the cost.

For the 8x10 internegs, I used Kodak 7302.  I'm not sure if this can be
purchased in 8x10 sizes any more.  If it can and you want to try it, I have
more information on its use.  I'm still selling 22 x 28 prints that went
through this process, and they still look competitive (at least to most
people).  You can do the math and see the enormous number of pixels one can
achieve.  However, the flatbed contrast, flare and evenness are issues.

Paul
www.PaulRoark.com 
http://home1.gte.net/res0a2zt/photos.html