I've had the Epson 1280 printer for about 2 weeks now and have been very satisfied with the 8.5 X11" prints I have been getting from both 35mm and 6X7 originals (even though I only scan @2400 ppi).
Out of curiousity I did a web search for a hi-resolution test image to see what the printer was really capable of. I found one (sorry, I didnt save URL). It's a 10MB color jpg which uncopresses to about 50MB rgb image. It's got still lifes, portraits, grey scales, color swatches, etc all in one file. It's probably a composite shot(s) with a MF digital back. I printed it at 8.5 X11 @ 2880dpi and all I can say is OH MY GOD!!! This epson 1280 printer is fantastic! The test image is so damn sharp it probably exceeds what is possible with an optical print (enlarging lens limits). I am now finally convinced the the digital darkroom beats conventional by a wide margin. Presumably a larger print would even look better @ same dpi ( I will try 11" X17" as soon as i get the paper). For any of you still sitting on the fence, GET OFF. With the $100 rebate, this printer is a steal. I am so pshyched up now about color printing just its so damn good. Nuff said. JCO
