I am more than grateful for your valuable input from all off you. After reading reviews and information sites on the 3800 and iPF5000. I think roll paper will be a more cost effective solution for me.
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Sunesha,
I'd suggest you check out the per-print cost of roll paper vs. sheet paper. I recently did and found out that sheets were less costly than roll, at least up to the 13" width my 2200 could accommodate.
I've recently added a 4800 and I've found there's a very distinct difference in the consumer-grade Epsons and the pro models. If you don't need the roll feeder for panoramas, I'd recommend the 3800. I've been very happy with my 2200 but it's definitely not the printer the 4800 is. I can't speak for the 2400 since I don't have one, but there's a world of difference in the 2200 v. the 4800 in print quality, speed and versatility.
I use the 2200 with MK inks for rag papers and I'm looking forward to upgrading to a 3800. Since rag papers aren't available on rolls, the lack of a roll feeder isn't a consideration. And the 17" width capability of the 3800 would be a definite bonus.
I've found that, all things considered, spending the money for pro-quality tools has been money well spent. I've been making my living with tools of one sort or the other for over 30 years now and have tried to economize when I could, only to find that I'd have been better off spending the extra money up front. Pro tools may cost a little more initially, but they do what you want when you want with no accommodations and/or fiddling around required on your part.
Of course, a lot of this depends on what you intend to do with the printer. If you typically print 10 prints a month, the 2400 is a no-brainer. If you print 10 prints a day, I'd recommend the 3800, unless you have a specific need for the roll feeder. In that case, I'd think you'd be better off with the 4800 or 4880.
As in a lot of questions on photo gear, it all boils down to "It Depends". What your requirements are, how often you'll use the printer, how long you're willing to wait for a print, how much you're comfortable with paying for ink on a per/print basis,these are things you have to decide for yourself. Then you can evaluate what matters to you and what value you place on the different capabilities of the printers available in your chosen price range.
I'm sorry I can't say" Buy this one" but there are just too many personal requirements involved.
At the least, I hope this helps in some small part in making your decision,
Bill