Q: I currently have a Mac with an HP scanner, Epson A3 colour printer and an Epson A4 B&W printer connected to it via usb. I'm considering buying an iMac and an all-in-one printer so I don't have so many cables cluttering the room. Other than Epson, which is the best device to get? I've had too many negative issues with Epson in the past.
A: I'm sorry to hear that you had issues with Epson, but as someone who was in the hardware business for many years (I'm out of it now) Epson has always been my first choice for inkjets. Their warranty is unbeatable. For a year they will express-ship a new printer and pick up the old one. Because of their recent rebates where their printers were about $20, I and many friends and family members have bought various all-in-ones such as CX7400, 7450, 8400 and 9400fax. One needed replacement and it took a day. Can't fault that. My sister didn't take my advice and bought a highly rated Canon. It had to go back for repairs twice within a few months. Each time she drove it there and picked it up a few days later. That's a hassle when you're running a business and need a printer. So she picked herself up an Epson and hasn't had any down time since. I find the scan and print quality very good, even on plain paper, though better on photo paper. Epson ink (like all name brand ink) is expensive, but you can get cheap cartridges at http://ccs-digital.con/ink.asp which works well. These are new cartridges, not refills which I dont recommend. The CX8400 was $60 with free shipping at CircuitCity.com. It uses 3 colors plus black. The RX595 was $99 at epson.com. It uses 5 colors plus black and even prints on DVDs.