STYLUS PHOTO 2100
page 2.

 

The new inks boast a better black density than conventional photographs, 2.4 OD on Epson 2.2 OD on photos. They are also going one better than their previous pigment inks with a higher optical density, thus giving more vivid colours especially on glossy media..
Epson conventional Pigment
New UltraChrome Ink

The graphics show the surface condition of ink on a glossy surface. UltraChrome Ink is coated more smoothly onto the surface than conventional pigment ink so that light is optimally reflected.

Diffused reflection
Perfect reflection

 

As with the 950 A4 printer, the SP2100 has the facility to print using roll paper and has the auto cutter with paper catch basket. The printer accepts both roll and sheet media at the same time, enabling the user to switch between media without having to reset the paper path.

The CD printing facility is also incorporated into this printer - now you can print a content sample on the CD face or use your own custom logos etc.

Although I haven't printed any of my own test pictures (there are no review samples available in the UK at the moment), I have seen the results from this printer. The monochrome prints are certainly the best I have ever seen from any inkjet printer and easily equal, if not better, conventional wet chemistry prints. The colour prints are superb, displaying the expanded colour capabilities of the wider gamut range. Printing speeds, whilst not up to Canon's, are considerably better than with the 2000P. The SP2100 took 4.5 minutes to print a 10 x 8 print at 1440dpi, compared to 12.5 minutes on the 2000P.

The 2000P created a stir when it was launched two years ago, the SP2100 will change even the most sceptical photographers' views on digital prints. Things can only get better!

A full review will be appearing on photo-i.

 

Epson Stylus Photo 2100 Features at a glance.

  • A3+ 2880 x 1440 dpi photo printer
  • Highest photographic print quality available
  • Long lasting Light Fastness for exhibition and resale of original prints
  • Cost effective consumables for high volume use
  • 4 pl ink drop size
  • New UltraChrome ink technology in 7 individual High capacity ink tanks
  • 7th Light Black as standard for improved colour gradation
  • Interchangeable Photo Black ink with optional Matte Black for optimal output on different media types
  • Built in P.I.M. technology
  • Light fastness between 45 and 75 years (depending on media)
  • USB 2.0, Firewire IEEE 1394 and Parallel ports
  • Continuous print solution featuring a paper roll holder, paper cutter and catcher
  • Dual load - cut sheets and rolls can be loaded simultaneously
  • Straight paper path for thick media up to 1.3mm
  • Print directly onto CD faces
  • Border free printing on cut sheet and roll media at 100mm, 4x6, A4, A3 & A3+
  • New Epson Grey (Gray) Balancer for accurately calibrating B&W output
  • Epson SP2100 RRP £492.76 + vat
  • Ink prices Photo or Matte Black £8.50, colours £10, all plus vat
  • Available from 1st June, 2002

www.epson.co.uk

Second opinions...

Ian Burley at www.dp-now.com

 

©Vincent Oliver 2002