My current HP printer has performed very well in producing high-quality prints but I can only print maximum 8X10. When I've needed larger sizes a local photo shop has done a very good job. As printer prices drop, I'm starting to consider a new printer. I figure in a couple of years it would actually pay for itself, considering what the shop charges. I'm looking for something that would do 13X19 in gallery quality. I'm happy with HP reliability and print quality. One friend says Epson produces better quality prints but another says their inkjets are notorious for clogging. Looking for something in the $400 range, maybe a little higher. Any suggestions?

I didn't even know you could get a printer to print that size for that cheap. We just got an HP all in one 6180 but that only does 8 x 10.

I wish I would have found this one.

This was has plenty of good reviews. It's at the top of your range but seems to produce gallery quality prints. I want one

FWIW, I have heard that Epson's wide-format ink jet printers are superior, too. Other things to consider are using pigment inks and high-quality paper (this is where it can get expensive). Papers with higher lightfast ratings are worth it, too, if you want the piece(s) to last a long time.

Steph,

Darn it. Now I want one too. After buying my new telephoto lens I really shouldn't...

MM Two areas where I never try to save money is on lenses and printers. I currently own an Epson 4800 and a 9800. I think I've owned at least one of each Epson model over the last 10 years. Yes it is true that they clog often but the superior print and detailed mid tones more than make up for the need to clean nozzles a couple times a week. The Epson inks and papers are in my opinion the best out there right now. I don't know what your volume needs are but with roll paper you can gang sheet small prints and really save time and money. I know the 4800 is way over what you planned to spend but you might want to take a closer look at it. Your work will look great coming off a high end printer. Since the beginning of March I've printed over 1500 images on my 9800 and 3000 note cards on my 4800 with only a few nozzle clogs.

Thanks for the suggestions, folks!