Digital BW, The Print

In the context of comparing the performance of MIS UT14-C (a PKN) with the HP Z3100 neutral PK, I printed identical brochures on Red River UltraPro Gloss 2.0, each with a single 1400 channel -- "black only" -- with QTR.  I then compared the images.  My observations were that the MIS PKN was cooler and had less gloss and less brozing.  I knew from the spectro that the HP PK had a slightly higer dmax, but both were so high that visually I assumed it made no difference.

I then asked my wife which brochure looked best.  She picked the MIS UT14-C print.  Why?  The blacks are better.

In looking at the 2 brochures side by side, and trying to ignore my knowledge of the spectro dmax readings, I think she's right.  It looks like the same results that we've seen with matte v. glossy.  The reflections off the more glossy HP-PK surface block the technically higher dmax from being seen in normal viewing.  The lower gloss MIS coating looks blacker due to relatively lower reflections.

Since I really only use glossy printing from brochures and some snapshots, spending the extra money for the HP-PK is not warranted for my uses.  (In fact, I'll probably do a fade test to see how much difference there really is.)  

I'll probably ratchet down to a less cool PKN from MIS, however.  The R2-PKC is 30% color as opposed to the 40% color of the UT14-C.  So, that may be what I settle on for the glossy printing option on my 1400.

Paul
www.PaulRoark.com