I've been using the iPF5000 for a few weeks, coming from an Epson 2200 as a novice, more or less. The print output is excellent. I printed a reference image from Calumet's Brilliant paper web page using the posted profile, and the print was awesome. But there are problems already mentioned above which I won't repeat. Some additional issues/questions:
1. I simultaneously switched to a Mac Pro (because my XP died & I had heard Mac is a great environment for graphics) only to find that the Canon driver does not work on Intel Macs (only the Photoshop Plug-In works on Intel Macs). I'm not aware of a current correction or work around, until if/when Canon issues a driver update (or ColorByte issues a new version supporting iPF5000).
2. The printer frequently reports that the magenta cartridge is not present, when it is present. This requires opening the lid, pulling the cartridge & reinserting, which results (so far) in re-recognition. I don't know, yet, if this is just a bad cartridge. I'll try ordering a replacement or calling Canon support.
3. Can you get spare spindles for roll paper? If so, where?
4. I had banding at the tail 1/2 inch of prints, called Canon support and they had me run, as I recall, a nozzle check & either that or adjusting to a different paper type, which I also did, cured the problem.