I recently purchased an HP z3100 which was on sale in Canada. $2098 + tx for a brand-spanking new z3100! What a deal.

I've already done some test prints and with the built-in spectraphotometer, the quality of the prints are already quite impressive. But like everyone, I want the best out of my printer and I'm looking for expert feedback from others.

1) I am thinking of purchasing HP's Advanced Profiling Solution. I gather that profiling 1100 swatches instead of 468 produces better and more precise profiles.

Has anyone purchased HP's APS?
If so, do you see a visible difference in the quality of the prints?

If you haven't purchase APS, did you purchase another profiler which supports the embedded spectrophotometer ?

2) What about a RIP. I gather that RIPs provide (among other features) greater layout flexibility and better color.

Has anyone purchased HP's EFI Designer Edition 5.1 RIP for HP (XL) ? If so, is it worth the money? Do the prints look better (color or B&W) ?

If not, are you using another RIP such as Onyx with the z3100?

Btw, the printer *still* ships with the old starwheel rollers which leave marks on dark areas of high-gloss papers. I've ordered the fix from HP through the distributor and they will come and fix it for free. I'll add that the people at Mondrian-Hall have been very helpful throughout the entire process.

Thanks,

Pierre

Was that for the 24" or 42" model? I may have to purchase another z3100 if they're going to give them away!

That was for the 24" model. I don't know the price for the 42". I was told that the sale was until the end of September or "while supplies last". Clearly, HP Canada wants to empty their warehouse to make room for the z3200...

Congrats on the new printer!!!

I'm very pleased with the APS and think it adds a lot.

To get the most out of the printer read the tech docs on paper types on the Z wiki.

I also recommend HP papers until you get used to the printer.