Paper And Ink Choices Continue To Grow Page 2
Lyson introduced three new papers compatible with all dye- and pigment-based
inks, plus bulk ink systems for selected printers. Archival Matte is a bright
white fiber-based matte with a slightly textured finish and sheen that mimics
traditional fiber-based matte photographic papers. Premium Gloss is a bright
white high-gloss paper perfect for printing photographs and enlargements for
use with glass frames, photo albums, and portfolios; it is smooth and water-resistant.
Premium Luster is a satin-finish paper. These papers are available in most common
sheet and professional roll sizes. Two bulk feed delivery systems address the
needs of Canon i9900 and Epson Stylus Photo R800 printer users. The R800 system
features Cave Paint and is stated to save money while improving color gamut,
and includes a gloss optimizer ($499). The bulk feed system for the i9900 comes
with a complete set of Fotonic inks and retails for $449.
Media Street announced the new Generations QuadBlack (GQ) pigment ink set, a
selection of photographic and fine art papers, and a special print driver to
produce museum-quality black and white photographic prints. Initially available
for Epson R200/R300-series printers (others to follow), Generations QuadBlack
solution prints a long, smooth gray scale from the lightest highlights to the
deepest shadows without banding, posterization, or other artifacts. Different
inks are specifically matched to paper type/finish. Separate Curves are provided
for coldtone, warmtone, and split-tone prints, and ICC profiles included with
each Curve provide accurate soft-proof previews on calibrated monitors. This
company also announced the release of its Niagara Continuous Ink Flow System
for the Canon i9900 and Epson 4000/R300/R800 ink jet printers. The Niagara System
(starting at $125) employs a modified cartridge assembly that hooks up to bulk
bottles of ink, eliminating the need for cartridges while bringing costs down
and eliminating waste. Also new from Media Street are Royal Greeting Cards in
various sizes, including panoramic, as the Photographic Series (high-resolution
photo matte) and Fine Art Series (100 percent cotton/pH neutral); prices start
at $19.
Photographic Research Organization, Inc. (PRO) added two new color ink jet papers to the PROMASTER PhotoImage line of professional ink jet papers: PhotoImage Artisté is 100 percent cotton rag, buffered, and acid-free, offering a unique museum-quality feel. PhotoImage Matte is a dual-sided coated matte ink jet paper, for, among other things, greeting cards and business cards. These papers are offered in various weights and finishes. Expanded package quantities now include 50 and 100 sheets.
Premier Imaging Products showcased the new PremierArt ECO Print Shield, in gloss,
matte, and satin finishes. This product is a water-based, non-toxic, and odorless
finishing spray designed to add a protective coating to all ink jet media, effectively
rendering any paper tougher and more resistant to damage against moisture, light,
humidity, atmospheric contaminants, abrasion, and fingerprints. It is available
in aerosol cans and bulk containers. The manufacturer notes that it is Epson
UltraGiclee approved and Wilhelm tested. This company also introduced various
ink jet papers, namely PremierArt Luster Rag 335g, which is acid-free and coated,
and suitable for fine art and display prints--compatible with HP, Canon,
and Epson printers/inks. Hot Press is acid- and lignin-free, 100 percent cotton
rag, water-resistant, and instant drying. The new PremierArt Watercolor papers
are textured and archival. For those of you into scrapbooking, there is PremierArt
Matte Scrapbooking Paper for Epson, which is 100 percent cotton and acid-free
for long life, and designed to work exceptionally well with Epson UltraChrome
inks, delivering a 200+ year print life, and coated for two-sided printing.
Another scrapbooking product, PremierImage Double-Sided Matte Paper is designed
to work with all printers, whether dye or pigment-ink based.
And finally, for those of you who prefer to work with remanufactured/ refillable
ink cartridges, Cartucho Express is installing ink-refilling kiosks in numerous
retail and discount outlets. These InkStations automate the process. Unfortunately,
no specific data on print quality and fade resistance was provided. Suitable
for all but Epson cartridges. Look for an InkStation in a store
near you.
Manufacturers/Distributors'
addresses can be found on page 176.
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