Digital BW, The Print

I am looking to buy a printer so I have a dedicated color and a
dedicated B/W printer and I am looking for recommendations.

Right now, I have my Epson R1800 converted to continuous ink using the
Cone K7 inkset.  I have read a lot of pluses on using this for color
as well as B/W because of its dot size.  However, it is a real pain to
reprime the CIS if I switch to color cartridges and my experience is
that the K7 cartridges are to expensive relative to the CIS.

From previous forum messages, it seems my best options would involve
the  2400, 3800 or 4800.  I'm curious whether I should buy one of
these to use for dedicated B/W and convert the existing R1800 back to
color, or some other configuration.  

One advantage I can see from using the new printer for color is that
it would also allow me to print B/W variants such as sepia, etc;
something I can't do with the current R1800 K7 inks.

Opinions or experiences would be greatly appreciated.  What
significant considerations would guide me away from a 2400 to a 3800
or 4800, other than print size?  

Right now I print fairly low volume and I am happy with 13 X 19 max
print sizes, but I also want to take on a show within the next 1-2
yrs, so that I am sure would require a great volume printing ability.

Thanks in advance.

Mike

Hello Mike,

>Right now, I have my Epson R1800 converted to continuous ink using 
>the Cone K7 inkset...

>From previous forum messages, it seems my best options would involve
>the  2400, 3800 or 4800.  I'm curious whether I should buy one of
>these to use for dedicated B/W and convert the existing R1800 back to
>color, or some other configuration.  

Since you're already set up with k7 on the 1800, and assuming you're
happy with it, seems prudent to leave it that way.  K3 is a fine
choice for color and you'd also have all of it's BW options that K7
can't do (variable tone, fiber gloss and photo papers).

As for 2400 vs 3800, the 3800 has more efficient ink costs because of
the larger carts, plus more efficient MK/PK switching should that
become an issue, and of course 16x20 capability.  If you can afford
the 3800 (space as well as $) it sounds like a no-brainer.

Regards,
Clayton


Info on black and white digital printing at    
http://www.cjcom.net/digiprnarts.htm