Digital BW, The Print

Hello everyone,

I'm new to your list. I spoke with Paul Roarke (who I believe is part 
of this list) and got some excellent help in understanding the basics 
of B&W printing. I've never tried it yet - but am looking at the little 
Epson C86 to get started - able to do up to 8x10. That idea is set in 
stone with me, and I feel comfortable with that choice.

Here's my question - I already have an Epson 1520 and am thinking maybe 
it could be put into service too.  In reading the various sites, BO 
Printing and MIS,   - I'm not into PIezos plan - no one mentions the 
1520. Is this because it just isn't a good choice? I've used it for 
client comps (graphic design) since 1997 and it is a fairly good larger 
sized workhorse in that regard. I find I can keep the heads clean with 
regular cleaning and with a bottle of "tape head cleaner" with q-tip 
cotton swabs (cleaning solution from Radio Shack - a tip I was given by 
an Apple authorized service dealer that also works on Epson). I've had 
it for so many years (since 1997) that I don't recall what it offers 
for dot size. I know it can do 1440x720, but I don't know if the drop 
size is variable.

What do you think of using it?

My goal: Archival quality b&w on matte fine art papers (rag/watercolor 
etc.)
Trying both BO and the MIS mixed solutions if I can get them for this 
printer.
I'd like to get the MIS Eboni for it - do they offer it for the 1520? 
It is the same cartridge as the 800 takes (not R800 - previous 800 
model)

MIS strikes me as a customer oriented company that will keep upgrading 
over time - so I feel good about choosing them.

Thanks for any pointers.

Best,
-Lynn
PS: Thanks Paul for all your excellent pointers!

PPS:  I'm on digest mode - and have to scroll a lot to read all the 
info -  so I may not respond instantly - but I'll get there!