DSLR Photography Forum

Full Version: Continuous Ink Systems
You're currently viewing a stripped down version of our content. View the full version with proper formatting.
Has anyone had any experience with Continuous Ink Systems for Epson printers? I have an Epson R300 and love the quality of the prints, however after using it for awhile, I realize that they are "giving the razor away and selling the blades" I can almost replace the printer for the same price that a new set of cartridges costs! I have recently seen Continuous ink systems advertised which use an ink bottles and a syphon and hose system to provide ink to the heads. All the reviews that i've read up till now have spoken glowingly of the economics and quality of the inks/output. The only delta that is up in the air is fading. I know that using non-Epson carts can void the warranty, but at the prices of the printers, who cares.

Is anyone using one of these systems? Any input?
My friend has a setup like that. I believe this is the system he uses: http://www.inkjetmall.com/store/ci/cis2.html.

There is a list of compatible printers (he has an 860) and the inks are archival.

Inkjet Mall is one of the more reputable dealers, though not the cheapest. If you have questions about setting up your particular printer I'm sure they could answer them.
A friend of mine back in England uses one for producing color presentations, on an epson too but I forget which one. Works great for him but not good for photo's, the 3rd party inks are different shades from the epson ones.

I've never gotten good results with compatible cartridges.
Bob raises a good point about color reproduction - with the new inks you'll need new printer profiles. And because they'll take to paper differently from the Epson inks, you'll need new profiles for each type of paper you use (e.g., New Ink on Matte profile, New Ink on Gloss profile, etc.)

The joy of color management is another reason why I rarely print at home. Smile
I have an old Epson 780. I always use recycled cartridges and have bought my own ink refill kit from Island Ink Jet. Home refilling works fine. I have to get the chips reset after I refill but that is free. You can buy cartridge resetters for under $50, but I never bothered.

Some people use a system of tubes which continuously refill their cartridges. Of course that doesn't work with Epson printers.
Actually don, there is a system of line feed print heads for some of the epson printers.
Have had a look @ CIS systems for an Epson R800 http://www.inkrepublic.com/ trying to see if their aussie distributor http://www.ozmods.com/ is going to carry it or is willing to get it in for me.
From what I've read http://www.inkjetmall.com/store/ci/epson...nters.html <--- lots of photographers use the Generations G chrome inks, they have ICC profiles for their ink too. Some of you might be intrested in the Pizotone range for monochromatic B&W prints.

BTW the G Chrome pigment inks are rated to last over 100years by the Wilhelm Research Institute.

I like the ink republic system but I prefer the G Chrome inks all systems are compatible with the other's inks