I'm preparing to build another third-party paper configuration using the MCT. Scott had me get in touch with John Hollenberg on the Canon iPF printer wiki to discuss implementing a wiki page for third-party papers and the x300 series. John was kind enough to reply prior to leaving town for a couple of weeks, and he intends to start a new wiki page after his return, but for now, this appears to be the best place to get feedback on the subject.
The next paper I'm going to configure is the Ilford Smooth Pearl (an excellent RC paper). I contacted Ilford regarding the x300 MCT settings, and I got an answer that was at the least, more detailed than selecting something as generic as "Special 5". I'll paste their recommendation:
We suggest to use the media type "Premium Semi-Glossy Paper 280", Print Quality "High" or "Highest" with the choice of ticking "High Precision Photographs". This is valid for either printing by the use of our ICC profile or when printing without ICC profile.
When I use the assist button in the MCT and enter the paper weight (290), Canon recommends using Premium Gloss 280. Hmmm, which one to use?
First, I'm going to go with Ilford's recommendation and use Semi-Gloss media-type setting, I'll then print three test charts from the three highest ink-volume settings for the sole purpose of evaluating color saturation and brightness (it is the only aspect of Canon's MCT test charts for ink volume I find useful), then I'll make my choice for ink-volume setting (Standard, Medium-high, or High). From there, I'll go ahead and finish the configuration, and print the 1860-patch profile target.
Second, I'm going to do the same protocol using the Premium Glossy media-type setting.
With both protocols, I'll build ICC profiles and compare them in color think for gamut size and see if I can appreciate a difference. In addition to implementing ColorThink for gamut evaluation, I'll visually compare the 1860-patch profile targets, which I find extremely useful for evaluating tonal definition, which is very subtle on the 1860-patch targets.
Any thoughts or feedback is welcome!
Greg