Neutral B&W prints

[GreggVicik]

Hello all,
I need to print some 8X10 B&W prints and some smaller color prints. In the past, I know that Epson did wonders with 3rd party software. I also know that the new line of Epson printers handle B&W prints fine on their own. However I do not need anything as large as the 13 inch or 17 inch models. Does Epson or Canon make a printer that can produce nice and neutral 8X10 B&W prints on matte paper and also color of course? Thanks for any and all input.

[AndrewRodney]

How about an Epson 2400 (that supports the Advanced B&W for neutral prints)?

[GreggVicik]

Thanks for the reply Andrew. I looked up the 2400 and see that it has been replaced by the 2880 and then there seems to also be a 3000 too. I know my old 2200 with the Epson drivers did really BAD black & whites. I take it that they must have made a major improvement from the 2200 to the 2400. Would I be correct to believe the 2880 should also give nice neutral black and white prints with just the Epson software?

Thanks again!

[AndrewRodney]

Originally Posted by GreggVicik

Thanks for the reply Andrew. I looked up the 2400 and see that it has been replaced by the 2880 and then there seems to also be a 3000 too.

Brain fart, I should have wrote 2880 (heck, I had one)! Its a great little printer but I upgraded to a 3880 which is not much larger in size, has much bigger ink carts (so lower cost) and can print a larger sheet.

[GreggVicik]

OK, brain farts I do understand. I have a friend that has the 2880 and loves the results. He did say that it uses more ink than the 2200. Locally, someone has a 3880 for sale for $800. I may go take a look at it. Thanks again Andrew...

[GreggVicik]

Andrew, one more quick question. Right now I can get a used 3880 for the exact same price as a new 3000. I know the 3880 allows larger paper and lower ink cost. However, the prints themselves, would there be any difference? Does either one have an edge with B&W and or color? Thanks again.

[AndrewRodney]

I still think the 3880 is the way to go, being the entry level Pro line printer (better build quality, compatibly with a RIP if so desired).