Re: MIS Archivals or Generations?

["Bill" <bill_pitcher@thepitchergallery.com>]

Frank Wiewandt <fwphoto@lrbcg.com> wrote in regards to choosing an archival
ink set for his 1200:

> I'll be printing mostly photographic images & want to try some of
> the "higher end" matte & glossy papers... <snip>...
> Ultimately I'd like to know each one's strengths &
> weakness so I can pick the product that best suits *my* needs.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Hi Frank,

I noticed that you are using a Cone profile so there's a good chance that
you are way ahead of me to start with.  I can't compare Generation with MIS
(I've only used Generations), but here is my experiences and conclusions
anyway.

I went through a similar process after buying my 1200 and finally
settled on Generations.  I wanted something "archival" and have been using
them since September.  I get great results printing on Royal Plush and
mediocre (at best) results on glossy and matte papers.  There's nothing that
I'd like better than to have someone respond to this and say that they are
getting great prints with Generations ink on any matte/glossy paper with a
1200.  But others seem to be having the same problems as I do.

I don't think that all the pieces of the puzzle fit - yet.  If we choose a 6
colour dye system for a smoother transition in light areas we end up with a
serious fading problem because of the watered down LM & LC.  If we go to
pigmented inks we solve the fading problem, but run into problems caused by
how pigmented inks sit on the surface of most papers (or bleed, etc).

I think that the emphasis you put on *your* needs goes right to the heart of
the matter.  I've come to the conclusion that I expected too much out of
this printer and it can not be made to do all things - at least not by me.
Generations Ink and Royal Plush suits one of *my* need very nicely.  I'm
seriously considering dedicating the 1200 to this combination and buying a
new 870 so that I can at least make smaller prints that look like
photographs. (24 year display life with OEM inks and matte paper)

Please keep in mind that I am just a novice at this, however, unfortunately
I question (based on my results only) whether you will be happy with
anything other than dyes if you intend to print photographs using
matte/glossy papers and a 1200.

Bill
web:    www.thepitchergallery.com
e-mail:  bill_pitcher@thepitchergallery.com





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