Digital BW, The Print

gar, amusing, but maybe you missed my point :-)

My point: comparing a scan's inkjet to a contact print isn't as
relevant as comparing a scan's inkjet to a darkroom enlargemtent. 

Darkroom enlargements using superior enlarging lenses are more lossey
detail-wise than inkjets from reasonably OK scans (eg using Epson
flatbeds with 6X7 or 4000ppi Nikon with 35mm). This is most obvious in
the corners/edges, but it applies to the center as well. That's one of
the reasons inkjets can look wonderful at sizes where enlarged murals
 turn to mud.