Hi John....
Hey, one other option you might consider would be the Epson 4880. This is a little more than the 3800 but does in fact have some advantages over it. Based on your usage (mostly prints for friends and family), you could certainly consider this printer. The 4880 has a slightly different inkset than the 3800, and (if I'm not mistaken) *slightly* different print heads. And one of the items which may actually be the most appealing to you is the ability for the 4880 to use roll paper; which should not be underestimated. I think that roll paper can be up to 40% less than cut sheets. I think that the 4880 can also use 200ml (oops...EDIT 220ml) carts which once again bring your price per ml of ink down. The 3800 also does not use a vacuumn paper feed mechanism like it's bigger siblings (the 4880 for example) which some folks have experienced problems with. On the other hand the 3800 supports the whole PK/MK issue, so if being able to switch between matte and photo multiple times is important to you, something else you should consider.
I just did a quick price check and see that the 3800 can be had for (all approximate prices) $1200 and the 4880 for $1750; a difference of $550. You may want to consider if the $550 is worth the advantages mentioned above (and don't forget that the 4880 includes more ink to begin with due to bigger carts, but then again takes more to prime).
I think most will tell you that the 4880 is quite the workhorse; moreso than the 3800. As far as quality between the 3800 and the 4880, my guess is that is most likely imperceptible (but will let others who actually have both speak to this); the one edge might be in images where the Vivid Magenta inkset of the 4880 makes a small difference.
Maybe Jeff or someone knows more about the tech of the 3800 vs. 4880 can validate what I have posted here.
:-)
Have fun!
Cheers....
Todd in Chicago
Thank you for taking the time.
I am comfortable with "excellent" at this stage of my efforts and feel the 3800 will best fit my level and needs for the time being. I look forward to your review on the 7900, and maybe if things work out that way, I might grow into it.
Thanks again,
Jack
