13x19 Printer which to choose

I know it's a common subject but i need some user inputs on which printer that brings the most bang for the buck.
A bit short on cash at the moment so looking for some cheaper alternatives that still produce prints good enough to sell.

Andreas, this depends a lot on what your needs are. I know you want a good value but you need to be more specific. Do you want to print glossy? luster? matte? Do you print color or B&W? Do you need roll paper support? Do you care about things like gloss differential and/or bronzing?

Another relevant question is whether you really want your own printer, or whether it would be better for you to send your files to a lab like WHCC or MPIX to print. It all depends on what you really need.

Eric

I use the Epson R2400 and have been very pleased. I print both color and B&W, and also print some panos, so the roll paper holder comes in handy. Never had a single problem with it to date - great colors, extreme detail, quiet, and easy. Can't ask for much more that that IMO. Can't compare it to Canon or HP because I've never owned them.

Andreas - the competition is certainly heating up - offerings from Epson, Canon, and HP all have their pluses. I can certainly provide personal experience with Epsons as they are all I have ever owned (and also growing frustrated with certain aspects of them), but there are a lot of favorable reviews around for the newer Canons and HPs.

If you are short on cash (you didn't say how much you can spend)- your best bet may be sending files to a lab and doing them on an as needed basis. There are a lot of hidden costs with doing your own printing, from ink wasted with ink clogs, to ruined prints from incorrect profiles, and simply just playing around with different papers. And that doesn't include your time spent printing...But you do have total control.

Perhaps think about some specific needs you have and features you want and take a look at the offerings out there. Luckily there aren't dozens to choose from.

I have been using an Epson 2200 for 13x19 prints, using matte (watercolor-type) papers and the matter-black ink, and have been thoroughly pleased. With a calibrated monitor I rarely need to print an image twice -- it comes out as expected the first time. Never had a single instance of banding or clogged heads, although that may be because I am using it often (usually 2-3 print orders per week plus personal prints).