Epson 3800 vs 4800 paper handling

[johnarush]

I am needing a new printer. I will be printing both non-toned, black and white, and color images, on matte papers with the rare need for a glossy type paper - mostly larger, 16 by 20" prints for shows/galleries. I will want to print the occasional panorama as well as 4" by 6" prints for albums (quite a range, I know). From what I read on the Internet the 4800 handles rolls for making panos while the 3800 does not but the 3800 can accept 4 by 6" sheet paper from one of its feed trays while the 4800 minimum paper size is 8 by 10". Do I have this right? Sounds like the 3800 has some issues handling paper (holding it flat) that can be worked around, while the 4800 is wasteful with ink? Any thoughts on which direction to go with the printer? I am leaning towards the 3800 with consideration for sending files out to a service bureau for panos. Thoughts? Doesn't sound like either printer can accomodate all of my paper size needs.

Thank you,
John

[BarryS]

I have the 3800 and haven't had any paper handling issues with small or large sheets.  If you only have the occasional pano, I'd strongly recommend the 3800 because it's half a generation more advanced than the other x800 printers.  This translates to finer dot gain and hugely decreased PK/MK ink switching costs.  If your panos are longer than the 37.4" limit on the 3800 you'll need to send them out or buy the Imageprint (or other) RIP to print longer than the 3800 OEM driver allows.  Matte fine art papers have a serious curl coming off of rolls, so even though the 4800 has a vacuum platen, you'll still need to deal with the curl after printing.  The ability to run small cut sheets is also a huge benefit for inexpensive proofing/test prints.

[jppaul]

Barry:

Could you tell me which is better for heavy paper thickness? I print on very think canvasses and water colour papers on my 9600 and would like to use some of the same WC substrates in cut sheet form on a 3800 or 4800/4880. I know the older 4000 could open wide for the thick stuff, but from your experience can the 3800 or 4800 do the same?

I'm much more interested in media handling than image quality, speed, dual blacks, etc. I'd much prefer to pick the least expensive 3800 if it can handle very thick paper, especially since this would be my secondary printer. But if it can't handlle my paper choices  it wouldn't do me much good.

In your opinion, which would be preferable?

Many thanks.

Jeff P.

[Doombrain]

Barry:

Could you tell me which is better for heavy paper thickness? I print on very think canvasses and water colour papers on my 9600 and would like to use some of the same WC substrates in cut sheet form on a 3800 or 4800/4880. I know the older 4000 could open wide for the thick stuff, but from your experience can the 3800 or 4800 do the same?

I'm much more interested in media handling than image quality, speed, dual blacks, etc. I'd much prefer to pick the least expensive 3800 if it can handle very thick paper, especially since this would be my secondary printer. But if it can't handlle my paper choices  it wouldn't do me much good.

In your opinion, which would be preferable?

Many thanks.

Jeff P.
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they both print upto 1.5mm thick.

suggest the Pro4880 if you're feeding canvas as the Pro3800 isn't really geared for it plus you get a lower cost per copy due to 220ml inks vs 80ml.