Canon ipf5000 / digital neg update

[MVNelson]

I have used this printer now for approx 4 1/2 months now so I thought I'd post an update...
1. The printer is pretty frugal with pigment ink...I just now starting to have to replace the original partial filled tanks.
2. The overall performance has been quite good.
3. The 16 bit PS-CS plugin driver(rip) does a great job and shines when it comes to B&W...Direct monochrome prints are truely beautiful...with 4 black pigments one might expect so..
4. I am learning how to do digi-negs and learning pt/pd printing at the same time...I therefore decided to go with ChartTrob/arrays to keep things simple...
5. The printer handles Canon tcf and pictorico ohp media with equal ease...no marks , no banding, no graininess issues...
6. I must admit I was much dismayed when I had a mechanical (gear problem) with the roll feed unit last week...One phone call to Canon and the problem was solved in less than 48 hour ! During that 48hrs I simply used the printer without the roll feed unit attached. Also I was glad that the tech guy came by because I got the whole software and firmware upgrades installed and a complete printer re-calibration with the quick repair! The new printer driver actually produces even tighter grain pattern and smoother tonal gradation.
7. I believe the combination of the LUCIDA pigment inks and the 16 bit plugin rip have allowed me to get pretty good pd/pt prints with ChartThrob/arrays even though I am not manipulating (taking total manual control) directly all of the printer's linearization functions. Maybe, when I become more versed with pt/pd I will discover the need to have that greater level of control.

Bottom line ...its alright...


Miles

 

[Colin Graham]

Hi Miles

It's been another year...still liking it? I'm having banding issues with my 9180 and it sounds like it's a non-issue with the Canon. I also really like that is uses the clear OHP, which is way cheaper and sounds like it prints way faster as well. And wow- did you get an extended warranty with it? Or do they just have extraordinary repair service?

 

[MVNelson]

Hi Colin, I am generally pleased with this printer. I have not been as active with it as I would like because my professional responsibilities have eaten up my time. However, I set to jump back in this week. I am currently re-calibrating with PDN. No further repair issues. I have only gone through a couple of ink cart. changes and an uptake cart change. So far so good.

Miles

 

[Colin Graham]

Thanks Miles. Ultimately I had to go with a 3800, if only because I couldn't find a iPF5000- I guess only the 5100 is available now, which is a bit beyond my grasp. Someday, hopefully.