Debated on added this to other threads on the Epson P800 or Canon Pro-1000 but in the end decided to start a new thread.
First, some information that may be of interest to current Epson 3880 owners.
As a hobbyist I have been printed with a Epson 3880 for just over 4 years with mostly flawless performance. About two weeks ago I started to get some minor ink blobs on my prints when using Photo Black and then the Photo Black would clog shortly thereafter. At first, a few nozzle checks or a cleaning would take care of the problem but then a few days later it would return. During a print session this last weekend the problem returned, much worst than before, major ink blobs and no amount of nozzle checks or cleaning would stop the problem. Doing some troubleshooting I have come to the conclusion that there is a failure in the ink delivery system for Photo Black. Searching the internet, including the LuLa forums, confirms there are quite a few documented cases of this failure with Photo Black and the printer much be serviced to replace the ink delivery system. I also contacted my local Epson Service Center this morning and they confirmed this is most likely the case, of course an actual diagnostic would be needed to confirm this but the service technician confirmed this has been one of their most common repairs on the 3880. What may be of most interest to other 3880 owners is that the 'ballpark' estimate I received to fix the printer, was that it would be approximately $450.00. Based on current rebates about half the cost of the new P800, making the decision to repair a difficult one. As a side note, the printer stills works flawlessly using Matte Black.
So the dilemma is do I repair (mostly likely not), stay with Epson and get the P800, or switch to Canon and get the PRO-1000 (a very viable alternative). As others have already commented in the reviews and other threads on the P800 and PRO-1000 this is not as easy a decision as may first appear, with both printers capable of producing excellent prints. The P800, while having some definite worthwhile upgrades, still continues to required switching of Photo and Matte black inks, an additional point of failure and ink usage, and possibly inferior paper handling/loading as a couple of points to consider. The Canon on the other hand doesn't have the issue with black ink switching and most reviews pointing out its better paper loading characteristics, it does have a couple of possible major downsides, higher initial cost and its paper length limitation at this time.
We all must weigh these factors and others in our own situation and make a decision, but I wonder what thought process others that have already made the choice or are considering the choice went through in their decision?
I thank everyone ahead of time for you thoughts and input.
Roy
