Recommendations for printer

[brobbins]

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I would like to buy a photo printer to start printing my photos at home. Many of the prints will be black and white photos, although some will be color photos.  I likely will not make prints larger than 8 inches by 10 inches. I have limited space for the printer, and will probably use the printer once or twice per month. I would be interested in recommendations for a printer that will not get clogged as a result of infrequent use and is unlikely to require much service. I will be using the printer with a Mac running Catalina. I have read about the Epson P400, P600 and P800 and the Canon Pro-10 and Pro-1000. They are capable of making larger prints than I need, but they seem to have the best reviews as printing black and white photos. If one exists, I would be interested in a smaller printer of otherwise comparable quality. Any recommendations or other advice would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

[andyturk]

I purchased a Canon Pro-10 late last year. So far, it's been mostly great. I've used only OEM ink and paper and the prints are wonderful. I do a mix of B&W and color on Pro Luster paper. The blacks are very black indeed and it's been really fun to convert images with Silver Efex, add a touch of toning, and print. Seeing an image against a white background (on paper) is very different than seeing it on the screen.

In the "not so great" category are a few things. The PRO-10 is a large device. I bought a special table just for the printer (and paper stocks). The product is now several years old (5 years?). It ships with DVDs for Windows, but those are useless on a mac with no optical drive. And sadly, there apparently is no online manual for this model. There is one for a close cousin, the PRO-10s, but it's not exactly the same. So be prepared to spend some time digging through old forum postings on dpreview and fredmiranda to figure out how things work.

The most significant problem for me is that the WiFi firmware inside the printer leaves a lot to be desired. Specifically, it's not very good at re-establishing a connection in a crowded  environment. I live in an apartment building where every occupant has their own WiFi router blasting out at the highest available power, so there's a lot of interference which seems to cause problems with the PRO-10. I'm completely unable to print an 8.5x11 image over a wireless connection without the job failing part way through. The workaround is to use a cable between the printer and my router. It's annoying because the cable snakes across the living room floor (but only when I'm using the printer).

Thus far, ink usage doesn't seem that bad. I've probably printed 30-40 5x7 images (on larger paper) and I'm still on the original cartridges. The color optimizer (CO) and one of the monochrome inks will be the first to run out. My plan is to investigate the Precision Colors aftermarket inks later.

[Jeff S]

Sales and rebates on printers are common; the profits come from ink sales (kind of like razors and razor blades).  I bought the P800 when both the dealer and Epson had discounts, saving $400.  The options you mention are all good.  I recommend buying a model that supports larger prints than you currently desire, at a good price.  The models that support larger prints also have larger ink cartridges, saving money in the longer term.  You’ll be fine if you’re printing (or even running a test print) a couple of times a month; current models are less susceptible to clogging.  The P600 (13inch) or P800 (17 inch) are good machines based on my knowledge, but others have had good success using Canon.

Jeff

[jaapv]

Very happy with the  the Epson XP15000.  Professional A3+ results out of a printer the size of a normal A4 printer.

The only drawback that I can see is the lack of third-party RIP software.

[LocalHero1953]

I have an Epson P800, so can't advise on anything smaller.

Smaller printers used to use dye inks, which always faded after a few years on the wall, though often very bright to start with. This was one of the reasons I chose to spend more on a printer with pigment inks. I don't know about current small printers, but this is worth bearing in mind.

And I could never get the P800 to connect reliably by wifi - it would print for a while, then stop for a breather half way through. I would not choose a printer now that did not permit a cable connection.

[Guest]

6 hours ago, brobbins said:

I would like to buy a photo printer to start printing my photos at home. Many of the prints will be black and white photos, although some will be color photos.  I likely will not make prints larger than 8 inches by 10 inches. I have limited space for the printer, and will probably use the printer once or twice per month. I would be interested in recommendations for a printer that will not get clogged as a result of infrequent use and is unlikely to require much service. I will be using the printer with a Mac running Catalina. I have read about the Epson P400, P600 and P800 and the Canon Pro-10 and Pro-1000. They are capable of making larger prints than I need, but they seem to have the best reviews as printing black and white photos. If one exists, I would be interested in a smaller printer of otherwise comparable quality. Any recommendations or other advice would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

My reccomendation would be the Epson P800. When you weigh up the cost compared to the P600 and take into consideration the extra ink that comes with a new P800 the differance in initial price is minimal.The build quality of the printer is second to none. There are other choices on the market but I don’t believe any are better. If due to space consideration you need to site the printer in a differant room use an Ethernet cable not Wi Fi or a long USB cable. Finally, depending on the amount of printing you do consider Image Print (black).Its is expensive but it’s the best piece of software I personally have ever bought.For advice on Epson and Image Print do a search on the forum for contribution by Jeff S who is extremely knowledgable on this subject.

[ropo54]

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The Epson Sure Color 800 is a significantly better deal than the Epson Sure Color 600, because of 1. ink consumption, and 2. option to print to 17x22 (rather than 13 x19).  Image quality between the two printers is identical. Not considering print-size capability, the price for the ink for the 800 is much more economical, as it is sold in larger containers and is a much better value. The size of each printer is not significantly different than the other.

[brobbins]

Thanks everyone for the advice. I  am leaning toward getting the Epson P800. I would place it on a table that is 20 inches wide but flush against the wall. Would that work? Or do I need more space at the rear of the printer? Also, does the printer work with the latest Mac software, Catalina?

 

Thanks again in advance for your help.

 

 

[Jeff S]

2 hours ago, brobbins said:

Thanks everyone for the advice. I  am leaning toward getting the Epson P800. I would place it on a table that is 20 inches wide but flush against the wall. Would that work? Or do I need more space at the rear of the printer? Also, does the printer work with the latest Mac software, Catalina?

 

Thanks again in advance for your help.

 

 

You’ll need at least 25” wide, but if you mean 20” deep (front edge to wall), you should be ok.  My table is just over 20” deep, but I moved it 5” from back wall just for breathing room.   But you can move the printer toward the front edge of the table  and still have about 5” to spare.  The front feed tray guides the paper upward (and about 4” rearward at max extension) rather than straight out the back like the prior 3800. This of course is using single sheets, not the roll print optional accessory.

I run Mojave, but use ImagePrint rather than the Epson driver, which eliminates Apple compatibility issues (another discussion).  But I don’t think you’ll have a problem running Catalina with the current Epson driver, although worth checking online.  

The P800 is a great machine. Be sure to check the Epson site for current rebates, as well as dealer discounts.  If you don’t find them, wait 5 minutes (not literally, but discounts are frequent... they want your money for inks). 

Jeff

Edited January 12, 2020 by Jeff S

[Jeff S]

$300 rebate on P800 in January.  Check dealers for supplemental discounts as well.

https://mediaserver.goepson.com/ImConvServlet/imconv/56f873b51eedd2d52d76f42067ee1ec512aa8afb/original?assetDescr=SureColor P800SE_DES Printer EA1087 Coupon CPD-54403R22.pdf

Jeff

[brobbins]

Thank you

[Deckard]

Hi guys

Sorry if I am hijacking this (very useful!) thread. 

I have taken my photography seriously only in the last year, and it's time to get into printing as well.

Ideally (if exists), I would like to invest in a printer that would last for years, with the following characteristics:

- The best possible image quality (also In terms of durability), as I am planning to sell prints

- Mostly, I would use the print to print a relatively high number of photos in smaller format, for review purposes, but still the highest quality possible

- Within an budget of about 1200 GBP (of course, I would like to spend much less)

 

I have a few basic questions:

Would a printer like Epsom SC-P800 support papers like HP Premium Satin?

The fact that the SC-P800 is an A2 printer means that it can easily print any smaller format, right?

 

Many thanks in advance!

 

[Jeff S]

P800 should be fine for your use, although I've never tried that paper (preferring semi gloss papers using photo black inks, not matte).  There is a $300 Epson rebate available (at least in the US) until the end of April (regularly recurring, as noted above), apart from any potential local dealer discount.  You'll need to check prices and promos in your area, presumably UK (check the Epson site).

There are various print layout options, through LR, Photoshop or third party options.  I prefer ImagePrint, but it costs as much as a discounted printer. On the other hand, it includes custom profiles (Black version) for virtually all papers, for which you'd pay extra anyway unless you're ok downloading standard manufacturer paper profiles and/or don't plan to experiment with various papers.

Jeff

Edited April 9, 2020 by Jeff S

[Ouroboros]

3 hours ago, Deckard said:

Hi guys

Sorry if I am hijacking this (very useful!) thread. 

I have taken my photography seriously only in the last year, and it's time to get into printing as well.

Ideally (if exists), I would like to invest in a printer that would last for years, with the following characteristics:

- The best possible image quality (also In terms of durability), as I am planning to sell prints

- Mostly, I would use the print to print a relatively high number of photos in smaller format, for review purposes, but still the highest quality possible

- Within an budget of about 1200 GBP (of course, I would like to spend much less)

 

I have a few basic questions:

Would a printer like Epsom SC-P800 support papers like HP Premium Satin?

The fact that the SC-P800 is an A2 printer means that it can easily print any smaller format, right?

 

Many thanks in advance!

 

Take a look at the Fotospeed website  for your SC-P800 printer. 

I use Fotospeed Inkflow inks and  Fotospeed papers, currently Platinum Etching 285 for colour and black and white prints, Platinum Baryta 300 for colour prints and Legacy Gloss 325 for back and white prints.  There are many more papers in the range and the best way to decide for yourself is to experiment with their sample packs. 

Fotospeed Inkflow employs refillable cartridges and it is much cheaper to feed your printer this way than using genuine Epson inks (this is where all printer manufacturers make their money).  Fotospeed  will provide you with FREE CUSTOM PROFILES with their inks and papers.  Simply download the profiling pack from the Fotospeed website, print the chart and send it to Fotospeed who will email your custom profile(s) back to you.  From my experience custom profiles are returned within 48 hours.  They will also provide you with custom profiles for non-Fotospeed inks and papers but there is a cost for this.

Also take a look at the Marrutt website for your SC-P800 and their Continuous Ink System and refillable cartridges.  Excellent support and their papers and inksets are probably just as good as Fotospeed.

I was for several years a beta-tester for Epson's ProPortrait printing system (as the 1st UK PropPortrait installation) which was only available to professional photographers.  My experience is that you will see no difference in print quality between Fotospeed Inkflow and genuine Epson inks.  Many of my professional colleagues also use Fotospeed Inks and papers.  I would urge you to take a close look at Fotospeed Inflow before buying a SC-P800.

Disclaimer: I have no connection with Fotospeed other than being a very satisfied customer with their products, service and support.

Whichever way you go, good luck and well-done on deciding to print your work! 

Some Fotospeed prints I made earlier this evening:

 

Welcome, dear visitor! As registered member you'd see an image here…

Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members!

Edited April 9, 2020 by Ouroboros

[dkmoore]

On 1/12/2020 at 3:51 PM, brobbins said:

Thanks everyone for the advice. I  am leaning toward getting the Epson P800. I would place it on a table that is 20 inches wide but flush against the wall. Would that work? Or do I need more space at the rear of the printer? Also, does the printer work with the latest Mac software, Catalina?

 

Thanks again in advance for your help.

 

 

Epson P900 will be out in one month. I highly recommend waiting for the P900, which is replacing the P800. It will have a dedicated photo and Matt black, which is WAY worth the one month wait. 

I'm an Epson fan so even if you get the P800 you will get excellent prints.

[Jeff S]

40 minutes ago, dkmoore said:

Epson P900 will be out in one month. I highly recommend waiting for the P900, which is replacing the P800. It will have a dedicated photo and Matt black, which is WAY worth the one month wait. 

I'm an Epson fan so even if you get the P800 you will get excellent prints.

Thanks... I hadn’t been paying attention.  I’ll wait for reviews, but enhancements seem worthy (including an additional color ink...blue... seemingly like the violet on the big sister Epsons).  And somehow they squeezed it into a smaller, lighter and sleeker package. 

Edit... Now I know how... smaller 50ml ink cartridges... big downside, and good ploy to (again) increase ink sales with smaller size and new ink set.

Jeff

Edited April 10, 2020 by Jeff S

[Jeff S]

I would wait for further updates from Northlight and elsewhere before jumping to the new model.

http://www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-printer-news-updates-and-rumours/

Epson also likes to introduce new ways to discourage use of third party support... RIPs, inks, etc. Good to avoid surprises on this and any early bugs/issues.  My P800 will suit for now.  And I can stick with IP10 for a while longer before needing to upgrade to Black.

Jeff

[dkmoore]

42 minutes ago, Jeff S said:

I would wait for further updates from Northlight and elsewhere before jumping to the new model.

http://www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-printer-news-updates-and-rumours/

Epson also likes to introduce new ways to discourage use of third party support... RIPs, inks, etc. Good to avoid surprises on this and any early bugs/issues.  My P800 will suit for now.  And I can stick with IP10 for a while longer before needing to upgrade to Black.

Jeff

I'm upgrading from the much older 3880 but I think you are right to wait and hear about the bugs. I think it will be launched in the UK first so by the time it gets to the US I should know the deal. The smaller ink tanks is annoying...I didn't catch that. I just assumed that is what it came with so that you had to buy an ink set soon after purchasing.

The photo black and photo Matt is a big upgrade that should have happened with the P800. 

Also, the 3880 still has excellent output to my (very) untrained eye.

[Jeff S]

I had the 3800, and the P800 was a nice upgrade.  So I’m good for now, but could be tempted if trusted reviewers substantiate improvements.  But the much smaller cartridges might hold me back; that sucks.  Will be interested to see new ink prices.

Jeff

Edited April 10, 2020 by Jeff S

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[Jeff S]

25 minutes ago, Jeff S said:

Will be interested to see new ink prices.

 

I’m not familiar with this source, and don’t reside in UK, but if it’s representative of new ink costs, Epson wins again...

https://www.wexphotovideo.com/epson-surecolor-sc-p900-printer-1736385/

This indicates that the newer, smaller cartridges cost 76% of the older ones, while the cartridges provide 62.5% of the volume.  I’ll wait for B&H and other listings.

Jeff