ColorMunki Photo opinions

[froyd]

I'm considering the purchase of a ColorMunki Photo spectrometer. I already own an older Spyder colorimeter (I believe it's a 2). My monitor is a Dell U2415 and my printer an Epson R3000. I normally print on Epson papers with Espon inks, using Epson profiles.

I currently get pretty good results with my monitor and printer combo, but having a few extra shekles in my pockets these days, I'm wondering if I could further improve my printing, especially shadow detail and gradations.

Can any ColorMunki Photo users give me feedback on the following:

- Compatibility with Win 10. I believe the latest software update on X-Rite's site is from 2009
- Improvement of CM profiles over Epson ABW setting for monochrome prints
- Worth using it for monitor calibration as well vs the Spyder 2?

 

[froyd]

A little bump to catch the morning crew.

 

[rodt16s]

Didn't think a profile was applied with ABW

I bought a spyderprint and find it quite useful... because I use 3rd party inks am more dependant on sending paper off for a custom profile.. Now I have the flexibility
Can't speak of the colourminki system though

 

[JPSuisse]

What I went through the whole color calibration process (years ago), I bought quite an expensive software and color meter from a company in Germany named basICColor. Results were good. But, the meter failed very quickly and the licensing of the software and activation was a pain in the ass when I would switch computers (main board failed on 2 computers, upgrades, etc.)

Being so problematic, I switched to buying a Spyder 2 and iColorDisplay. A cheaper solution and seems to be just as good. Also licensing and activation is no problem as I received a license file. Computer dead? Just a buy a new one and move on. I use no software that requires activation.

In both cases, I tested by giving my raw files to a lab and seeing how they processed and trying to see if the screen and the prints look right. One lab I caught making adjustments, which explained the differences... I would say I've got things under control.

Why change if it's working right now though?

 

[froyd]

Why change if it's working right now though?

Fair comment. I'd agree that one should not let better be the enemy of good, but I'm fond of printing and I just want to improve my photos as much as I can. I the consensus is that a consumer-grade printer profiler will not provide substantial improvements over stock Epson profiles, I'll just stick to calibrating my monitor and leave well enough alone.