Hi JB,
I can't offer any advice concerning the 3800/80, since I've never used one. However, considering all of the accolades it has received on this and another forum I would agree with Dan on his assessment. I still run one of my 7600 printers along with the 9900. Obviously the 9900 NEEDS nozzle checks and likely cleaning cycles on a regular basis, and for many years I've used plain office paper for that purpose. I get four nozzle patterns, two per side, one at each end. I then cut the patterns off one end and use that end for two more, one per side. Total, 6 nozzle check patterns per sheet. Call me cheap, but it works. Good luck with your printing endeavours.
Gary