Digital BW, The Print

Jim,

I like a bit of texture. 

I really like the Harman paper and have 100+ cut sheets left for 
prints. It is a great paper.  (I bought sample sizes of 35+ papers, 
then laid in a stock of 7-8 papers for more extensive testing.)

But I started testing on an Epson 7600. There was more gloss 
differential and brozing on the super smooth gloss of the Harman than 
the Hahnemuhle and Epson Exhibition. I didn't want to have to spray 
*every* print. ;>)

My favorite paper was the Epson. It was the most neutral and I liked 
the texture, GD, and bronzing best.  But it doesn't come in rolls.  
So the Hahnemuhle was my second choice.

I did try the Innova Glossy and I am using the Glossy Warmtone for 
B&W.  Fewer GD and bronzing issues with those inks. I mixed a 5K+GLOP 
ink set from Epson PK.  Plus I will be spraying most of those.

I have upgraded the Epson 7600 to K3 inks.  Much improved gamut, 
great quality output on all 3 papers.

I didn't try the Ilford Gold extensively. I liked the heavier weight 
and more neutral/cooler colors of the Epson Exhibition and 
Hahnemulhle Fine Art Baryta better.  As mentioned, not that much 
difference in cost in rolls between the Hahnemuhle and Ilford to 
justify gong to the Ilford. The lower cost in sheets would have been 
teh biggest selling point for me.

What machine are you printing on? Have you settled on the Harman? I 
had a 7880, Harman would have been great there. Waiting to decide 
between a 9900 and a 9880 later this year.  Using 2x 7600's and a 
9600 in the meantime.

They are all great papers! We are realy lucky right now.

Best,
Michael