Is there really any noticeable difference between the Epson 4880 and 4900?
I'd like to hear from people who have hands on experience using both machines.
The 4900 uses the HDR ink set (additional orange ink cart). The 4880 uses K3 "Vivid Magenta" ink set. For most images you'd not notice much, if any, difference in color or image quality. An advantage of the 4900 is the ease, and "relative" economy, of switching black ink carts from PK to MK (4990 has both carts on board). The 4880 requires an ink cart swop, and consumes an obscene (and EXPENSIVE) amount of ink switching over.
The 4900 is somewhat infamous for nozzle clogs if not used regularly. This could be problematic for the occasional printmaker. The 4880 can be fussy, but is generally much less so.
If you need to switch between MK & PK ink often, and print almost every day, the 4900 is a good choice. If you use only PK or MK ink, then the 4880 represents a good value on the used market.
I had intended to upgrade to 4900 from my trusty 4880, but after making test prints from some of my files (and seeing zero difference in print quality), and reading some nozzle clog horror stories, I stuck with my 4880.
And last, if you don't need roll paper capability, the 3880 is the current sweet spot in Epson 17" printers, IMO.
Rand
