Digital BW, The Print

I would appreciate any advice you all could offer.  I've researched 
this a lot, and I'm only getting more confused the more I read.

I have an epson 1270.  What are my options with Quadtone printing?  
The MIS inks look great, but I see they are only offered in cartridge 
form (for the 1270), yet they don't have cleaning cartridges for this 
printer. How then would I get the color ink out?  Is anyone out there 
happily using a 1270 with MIS quads?  

From what I've read, most of you have older printers that are off the 
market. I'm not opposed to buying a new printer if necessary, as I 
will need both color and BW printers anyway.  Would another printer 
be better for quads? I don't want a used one however (ie the 1160) 
because I'd want to be able to get a replacement quickly if needed.

Thanks in advance,