capable epson printer (Epson Stylus DX8400)

Member Name: Spellbinder4

Product:	Epson Stylus DX8400
Date:	22/10/09 (14 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: advanced scanning functions

Disadvantages: For the price - none.

Epson DX8400. All-in-one printer, scanner and copier. Some people believe that all-in-ones must have inferior capabilities - not so.

The machine is reasonably attractive - glossy grey upper surfaces and matt grey sides. Controls are all easily accessible and clearly marked on the left with a small display screen that can be lifted upright.

The copier function gives good copies. Increase the darkness a touch for nicer copies. The settings for copying can take a little getting used to. Straightforward once you've completely mastered it.

The scanner function is fantastic for the price - as I do a lot of graphic work and graphics with text. One of the reasons I bought this printer as it is known for this ability. The scanner controls that come up on your pc (epson scan) are pretty much to professional standard and not too long ago would only have been available on very expensive kit. Of course, the output is only as good as your printer.
(Does not scan transparencies or print on transperent sheets.)
Fiddling about with all the scanner functions can over complicate things and its best to keep it simple and you can get excellent results without resorting to the advanced functions - though set it to scan in 'professional mode'. preview function is really good.

Printing function - prints photos well 9 some can get a little on the dark side), prints graphics well, as always depends on quality of your original and the papers used. But good graphic prints can be obtained on very basic paper. I often put in high quality artists cartridge paper for prints (wipe off any glue residue first).
Prints very well without having to use the highest quality setting.
Can be used as a stand alone printer - but I have never used this function.

Inks are durabrite high quality epson inks (a set included with a new printer). These are claimed to be waterproof - but in reality just take a little longer to succumb to water than other inks.
They don't last as long as I'd like. But I've had a lot worse.

Easy-ish to initially set up and get running.
5760x1440 print resolution.
1200x2400 scanning resolution (you won't need all this)

Summary: Capable.