Is it time to turf the EPSON r1800? If yes, what next?

[Vickko]

My R1800 is starting to streak more and more.

Sometimes, it prints fine.

Sometimes (ie. some days) it doesn't.

We use it sometimes for just BW text printing.

Is it time to say adios to it, and buy a better printer? What is a better printer?

Does Canon have a good one?

...Vick

 

[dasuess]

Not sure if your R1800 can be revived or not, but I do love my Epson R3000. I am getting wonderful (and inexpensive) results using InkSupply refillable carts and their inkset. The B&W results are better than anything I could do in a wet darkroom. If you only need a max of 13x19, it's a great printer. The only downside is the switching between PK and MK, but I have standardized on matte paper so it's not a problem for me.

 

[drewbarb]

I assume you've tried cleaning the nozzles and sponge pads already?

 

[swoop]

Every Epson printer I've owned had streaked at some point. Without fail. It's really annoying and I've learned to just avoid them. On the other hand I've never had that issue with Canon Printers.

Also Epson printers have their print heads built in, so a replacements, which it sounds like you may need, requires you to send the printer in. With Canon their print heads are detachable, and many models require you to install the print head while setting up the printer. So when a print head is years old and clogged beyond repair, a new print head can simply be ordered an reinstalled. And it's like having a new printer.

Another thing that happens with printers as they age is that they actually have a spill tray/sponge for waste ink. With years of use it can get filthy and streak/stain your prints.

High quality printers don't cost as much as they used to, and a great feature that a lot of modern printers have is built in Wi-Fi to network your printer. That feature alone would justify an upgrade.

 

[GaryLH]

I have been having problems w/ my epsons as well. Epson 2200 lasted about 4 years of heavy usage. R800 medium usage in 5 years or so.

Epson 2200 about 2 years ago and this year r800.. Could not revive the 2200, the r800 still in process of working on it, but no too promising.

So do u have recommendations on the Canon alternatives.

Gary

 

[Addy101]

Canon and Epson are the big players and both have their pro's and con's. if you like your R1800, the new 2000 might be your printer of choice. It uses the same inks as the 1800 (though not the same cartridges) and it is great for the occasional printer. Do you print more, the 3000 probably is the better choice.

I recently bought a printer and chose the Epson 2000. The Canon 9000 printers are a generation older then these Epsons, that is why I've chosen Epson over Canon.

 

[bob338]

I would look for a 24" Epson 7800. They can be found for under $1k. It's bigger than what you have now but you can print exhibition quality. My 9800(44"vs24") has been super reliable and it's about 6 or 7 years old.
Any pro quality printer needs maintenance, but I think the results you get from them is worth the extra expense.
Also, the cartridges for the 78/9800 are much larger and cost less in the long run. You need to print fairly often(once a week minimum) to keep it from clogging up, though.