Printers..Epson vs. Canon ?s

[NikonMarty]

i'm considering the Epson 3800, but would like a viable option as well as my previous experiences with Epson haven't been the greatest (cheaper models yes, but imo if you have issues with providing a good "limited function" device, what's to say you won't have issues when trying to make something with a ton of quality requirements built in
as well, i'm not a fan of the head deal...if one goes you get stuck replacing them all as the epson has them built into the printer rather than the cartridge..

i've had good luck 'til now with Canon's, but does the quality stand up to the Epsons in the same price range? anything else that might be a viable option?
it'll be used mostly for wedding work, so everything from highly saturated shots to b/w

also, can anyone tell me the possible importance of ExpressDigital® Darkroom™ Core Edition that comes with one version of the 3800?
what might it do for me over CS3 etc?

ya, lotsa questions, i know...but i'd much rather make an informed decision based on what those with xperience might offer

appreciate any insights

Marty

[Eero Makela]

If you go Epson 3800 here is all you need

Epson 3800 Step-By-Step Printing Workflow

I figured out with the larger ink tanks (80ml) it will be cheaper in the long run and the pictures are WOW. Mind you printing them at 11x17 adds to this WOW

[NikonMarty]

dang you're quick!!

you loitering in here just waiting for a new thread??

appreciate the thoughts Eero, will have a look at the link!!

[tekdiver500ft]

I know you didn't ask about HP, but I would add the HP Photosmart Pro B9180 into the mix. Phenomenal output quality, very large ink tanks, independant print heads (four of them, that you can replace at will), and outstanding customer support.

However, of the two you ask about, I would go with Canon. I have never had an Epson printer worth a hoot. I realize that many people do, but I have to go with my own experience, here, and it sounds like your experience is similar, which tells me that you wouldn't be happy with an Epson.

[NikonMarty]

i did ask for viable options tho tekdiver500ft
and i appreciate your addition to the list, i'll for sure check into the HP line-up as well

cheers

[C Webb]

I am using an HP B 9180 and experiencing wonderful results! I admit that per print costs might be higher than some of the photo labs. But the fact that I am able to get the quality of color I want, I would much rather "print my own" than hope the lab tec. can decipher my croping and printing request. I could have gone with most any printer out there, however I liked and still do the
results I have seen and am getting from my HP.

C Webb

[NikonMarty]

thanx C Webb

[Songman45]

Originally Posted by NikonMarty

also, can anyone tell me the possible importance of ExpressDigital® Darkroom™ Core Edition that comes with one version of the 3800?
what might it do for me over CS3 etc?
Marty

I don't think it offers anything over CS3. Express Digital is also the parent to photo reflect dot com. Darkroom is an editing program that integrates with their online sotrefront software. I'm guessing that the inclusion with the printer is "value added" and paves the way to being a customer of the aforementioned online service. I use the storefront but do not use the editing features of Darkroom. For what its worth, for a price Express Digital has the full gamut of photography business software production, marketing, and accouting. No endorsement from me, however.

Steve

[NikonMarty]

thanx Steve

[Jason Hermann]

I have the Pixma Pro 9000 and absolutely love it. Based on that I would personally go with the Canon

Best,
Jay

[SureFire]

Honestly? I've compared them all. Epson smokes everything on the market and I don't even like dealing with ink. I'm so tired of ink, but I'll own Epsons until something better arrives. Outside of a Fuji lab in my office. I currently run an R1800 and 7800. Not only do I print photography (obvious), but I do fine art reproductions. I (and my clients) could not be happier. Wider gamuts and I can mix right in with lab orders. On Kodak professional papers, no one can tell the difference. I do use Epson and Ilford papers as well.

[NikonMarty]

'tis appreciated gentlemen

[tekdiver500ft]

It really isn't on point though, is it? He isn't reviewing them from a photographer's viewpoint, but from a graphic design and engineering standpoint. That, and he only mentions the brands, but not the models being considered. It is good information, but I'm not sure it is helpful to the OP.

[SureFire]

LOL I don't trust reviews where the author is just out to redeem affiliate bucks.