The New HP B9180 13x19 printer WOW WOW

[tim atherton]

Would you put the two wider format HP models in this same class (especially, but not only, in terms of grayscale printing?)

Z2100 and Z3100 I think? - are they essentially just bigger better versions of the B9180 (I know one has more inks)

are they newer, older or basically the same technology?

[sanking]

Would you put the two wider format HP models in this same class (especially, but not only, in terms of grayscale printing?)

Z2100 and Z3100 I think? - are they essentially just bigger better versions of the B9180 (I know one has more inks)

are they newer, older or basically the same technology?

Tim,

If that question is directed to me, I don't know the answer. I have some experience with wider format Epson printers, but not with the HP Z2100 and Z3100.

The great plus for me of the B9180 is that it makes great nuetral tone B&W prints out of the box with the HP driver and the native ink set. The 13" carriage Epsons I have used (2200, 2400), with the Epson drivers, are less capable in this regard.


Sandy King

[Kirk Gittings]

Would you put the two wider format HP models in this same class (especially, but not only, in terms of grayscale printing?)

Z2100 and Z3100 I think? - are they essentially just bigger better versions of the B9180 (I know one has more inks)

are they newer, older or basically the same technology?

They are newer technology with all the associated problems. Do a search on Luminous Landscape for the sorted history of their premature release. It was not pretty. Personally I would even now give HP more time to sort out the problems. I am tired of paying good money to be a beta tester.

[Oren Grad]

Kirk, MR sounds pretty happy with the Z3100, if his writeup is any indication. In that class of printer, it's the Canon iPF5000 that's been giving all the headaches...

[Kirk Gittings]

Oren,

As, I am in the market for a new printer and interested in this printer in particular I have followed all postings with great interest since its release. Problems posted compared to Epson 3800 run 10 to 1. Don't care as much what MR writes as the rank and file.

[Oren Grad]

Then you'll know much more than I do.

10:1? < gulp > That's really unfortunate...

[sanking]

Oren,
Don't care as much what MR writes as the rank and file.

Who is MR?

Sandy King

[Oren Grad]

Sandy, it's just Michael Reichmann - sorry to be cryptic.

[Kirk Gittings]

I am looking forward to serious competition to Epson. HP and Canon are right there on the cusp. It will be good for all of us, but at the moment.......I have two friends, one who bought the HP Z3100 two weeks ago and has spent around 18 hours on the phone with customer support. The other friend bought a 3800. We installed it, had it up and running in 20 minutes, and in the first month have not had to contact support once. HP will get there with their larger machines, but personally I am still leary.
Kirk

[PViapiano]

I am seriously considering the 3800...printing size, quality, cartridge size all add up to state of the art at this price point.