Some comments about the Epson 3800..

[PeterAM]

After printing with an Epson 2200 for several years I recently (December) bought an Epson 3800. The 2200 has served me well (still in use) and has produced some pretty good results once I fought my way up the printing learning curve and discovered that I needed an RIP to get neutral B&W prints. Since the time that I bought the 2200, Epson has improved the inks several times, which was the motivating factor for getting a new printer. Having used the 3800 for a couple of months, I thought that I would share some thoughts with you, in case anyone is considering this type of printer.
Firstly, my satisfaction and familiarity with the Epson that I had been using, caused me to only consider an Epson machine as an upgrade. The 13" width of the 2200 had been adequate (printing up to 13" X 19") so I first looked at the 2880. After doing some research on the forums, etc., I decided that it was more economical from a cost (not cash flow) standpoint to get a larger machine because of the running cost related to ink. This led me to the 3800 (17"), and a good deal through Atlex (with Epson rebate) clinched it. You can find some very comprehensive on line reviews of this printer, so I'll keep my comments simple:

The machine is easy to set up and get going. Footprint is not bad and it does not vibrate nearly as much as the 2200 when running.

Print quality is first rate and B&W prints are excellent, without using a RIP. This printer has both matte and photo black inks on board and switching does not consume as much as some of the other units. As a practical issue, I batch my work so as to avoid switching any more than I have to.

Another plus is that this printer is one of Epson's Professional level units, so it gets you a level of tech support that I did not get with the 2200.

If you are considering doing some serious printing, take a look at this printer. I'm not connected with Epson in any way and am sure that you could get equally good results with one of the other major brands. Just thought that I would share my experience with you.

[tcdk]

Thanks for sharing. Could you say something about the average milage and print cost?

[PeterAM]

I don't track my costs;if I did while I was learning how to print, I probably would have given it up. I had darkrooms on and off for many years and am really only interested in having a print as the end result of my work.

Take a look through this site: Epson Stylus Pro 3800 Printer Notes and Resources This is the best/most complete place for info on this printer. I think that he talks about running costs somewhere in there.