The
following is a review based upon my experience of the new Epson
Stylus 1270 printer using the Windows 98 driver, although I'm sure
the Mac will probably have comparable features. I have also run
the new printer using Windows 2000 with which it works admirably. One
word of warning for Windows 2000 though, if using USB then follow
Epson install instructions to the letter otherwise you will get
communication error messages.
The
new printers are significantly quieter and faster than previous models. The head glides across with a smooth whisper, nothing like
the crunch and whine of the Stylus 1200. Even the ink
purging is only just noticeable, okay it's not silent but unlike
its predecessor it certainly doesn't give the impression that the
printer is about to explode.
Epson
claim that the new printers and inks are optimised for best
quality output using the new Premium Glossy Photo Paper, and as
such the prints I obtained are much better than could be obtained
using normal Photo Paper, using the "Standard"
Epson ICC profile. I think most folk will find the new ink/paper
combination highly satisfactory. I also tried the older Photo
paper and the Heavy Weight Matt paper, all produced very
acceptable results straight off, with a calibrated monitor "What
you see is what you get" with these new printers.
Prices
for the new printers are comparable to the Epson 750 (A4) and
Epson 1200 (A3+) models, as are the costs for consumables. Black
ink can be bought in singles, doubles or a light capacity
cartridge. Again the costs of these in the UK is "Exactly"
the same as for the Epson 1200/750 cartridges. The new
Premium Glossy Photo Paper is approximately £1 or $1.60 more
expensive than the Epson Photo paper, but that will probably
change as stock levels increase.
Notice
also the Print Preview "checkbox", there are some
very snazzy features in there!! This feature allows you to Preview
the image immediately before printing, along with adding "Watermark".
Some users may find this feature very helpful, especially since
you can request that the "printable area" is
identified on the preview. Once satisfied that all is well you
simply click "Print". The Preview is pretty
accurate in that you will have a good indication of the margin size,
but the image colour/contrast/saturation/density is rarely accurate. When the Roll feeder is used Edge-to-Edge printing is
possible and the Preview shows this as well. Unfortunately this
feature can be something of a memory hog, so if you don't need the
preview give it a miss. Actually, I would definitely give it a miss!
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