Epson 3880 or 3800???

[neil poulsen]

It's currently possible I believe to purchase a Epson 3900 or a 3800 with a $300 rebate.

I've been told by a sales person that the only difference is that the 3900 uses Vivid Magenta ink, whereas the 3800 does not. Does the Vivid Magenta ink make that much difference in the final print?

[Kirk Gittings]

Are you printing B&W or color (for those who haven't used them yes the color inks are used even on b&w)? My research indicates that it makes no difference on b&w and some expanded gamut in the reds on color.

[neil poulsen]

I'd be printing both. I think the significant question is whether or not the 3900 will print digital negatives as well as the 3800. For these negatives, I hear that the 3800 is the printer of choice.

But, I'm also curious about the 3900's effect on color.

[Ron Marshall]

I'd be printing both. I think the significant question is whether or not the 3900 will print digital negatives as well as the 3800. For these negatives, I hear that the 3800 is the printer of choice.

But, I'm also curious about the 3900's effect on color.

I think the new model is the 3880, not 3900.

Online review, including gamut comparison:

http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/printers/3880.shtml

[Greg Miller]

Here's another review that you might find helpful from PDN (http://www.pdngearguide.com/gearguide/content_display/reviews/e3i1af498fbe3e69d8998401288513ba0a0)

[Steve V]

If the price difference if a few hundred $$, go with the newer model. In addition to the ink set, the are other incremental changes. The 3800 is more than 3 yrs old. You will like either one. I had my 3800 for almost 3 years and never had a problem; no head clogs even with long periods of inactivity. The 3880 has the newer head technology for allegedly better performance..

Steve