Wow, that's a lot of important info, a majority of which was way over my head. I'd never even heard of 'a profile' before. I appreciate this video and I'm going back to binge watch your other videos on ET-8550. Thank you (from Canada)
@@KeithCooper I wrote you a rather lengthy comment earlier and am now seeing this - thank you for sharing! RUclips is a great repository, but not so great for categorization - it can make targeted searches difficult, so this helps!
Thanks - I created a full index of all my videos for just this reason www.northlight-images.co.uk/keith-cooper-photography-videos-index/ @@SweetMercyMarie
If you've not seen it, do check the actual [i.e. written] review - a lot of paper related info there www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Thank you for all your great info. I did a lot of research before purchasing the ET8550. It just arrived yesterday and I have been enjoying coffee and binge watching your channel all morning before I unbox it. It has been very very helpful. I just make cards as a hobby, and might be looking to sell some of them just to support my hobby.. but I still want to have good quality. Your videos are so informative and I will be sharing them as I recommend this printer to other obvious. Thank you again for such detailed, excellent content.
Julie - I'm curious how you're doing with your ET8550? I got the ET8500 2 days ago and I'm having a terrible time with my watercolor art looking faded on Epson Premium Presentation Paper Matte. I'm creating greeting cards. I have spent hours fiddling with settings and am near tears. Any advice?
@@nancye7520 that's kind of surprising. I'm getting incredible prints from mine. What type of settings are you using for the color adjustments? Depending on which program I print from, under more options I have left it to automatic. Although, I have used the ICM or no fix option and those work very well
@@julierossbrickley146 I spent all day fiddling and watching RUclips videos about ICC set profiles. 😑 around 4pm, I watched another vid by Easy Sunday Club, and the had a lot of good info-including the info that “it takes a lot of experimentation” to find just the right settings. So , I figured out I really need to print from Photoshop and intensify the images before printing on Epson matte presentation paper. I’m just exhausted with all this!! But I’m encouraged by today’s success. I just didn’t think I’d have to adjust every one of my images before hitting Print.
I love your videos, they’re so informative, the only thing I don’t understand is what a profile is. Could you perhaps make a video explaining how to profile papers, as I understand now how necessary they are but not necessarily how to do them!
Good videos and easy to follow. I just bought this printer as well and I am pleased with the quality. I too am an artist and want to print some original artwork.
Thanks - the main [written] review includes links to all articles/videos I've produced connected with the 8550 www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Thanks for that, I had delay to start on photo printing, except for a couple of prints and brilliant as this printer is, your finding is the same, so now I know, when ready , I can then purchase.
Thank you for this Helpful guide , i have just bought this printer .. it is still in the box once i calibrate my monitor i will be taking your advice , Very helpful indeed Keith.
Thanks - If you've not seen it, see the main written review as well, it lists al the videos and articles I've done covering this printer www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Thanks Keith great video as was your review, im new to photo printers but looking forward to picking this up in a couple of days and thanks to you i wont be wasting ink or paper
Great printer ! I got my ET 8550 a week ago and have been testing papers. I've been mostly testing Red River Paper a USA company. Red River is easy to work with.
Every obscure question I come across, you have a detailed video guide on, love it! A3+ is very expensive in Australia, we have something called SRA3 (bigger than A3 but quite A3+), nothing in the user manual though, maybe a custom paper profile would work.
Thanks That paper size isn't one I know - the profile is for the basic paper, not its size. I don't know, but is that size listed in the printer settings for the 8550 in Oz?
Thank you Keith for this video. Hello from France. I just bought this printer and I'm waiting for the delivery. You just saved me money. I wanted to know if you have ever loaded paper in rolls. Best regards.
Thanks - There is a video of a panoramic print made with a length of paper cut from a roll. See the review (and list of videos) at: www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Hi Keith, Thank you so much for your videos on this printer. I got it based on your input. Do you know if there are ICC profiles for the EPSON Fine Art Cotton Smooth Bright paper or any of newer Epson Fine Art Paper? Also, where can I find your ICC profiles for the ET-8550? Thanks again really appreciate it
Thanks The profiles made are those listed in the main [written] review - email me at Northlight for them. www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/ and www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8500-printer-review/
Thanks for all your videos, there are so good. I have just purchased the ET-8500 and want to purchase some A6 papers. Do profiles matter for smaller print sizes loke this ?
Thanks The profile is for the combination of paper/printer/media-setting - paper size has nothing to do with this. For more info, see my 8500/8550 reviews [the printers are identical, but for size] www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/ and www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8500-printer-review/
Your videos and info are killer first of all. I am curious if any of your videos show the difference between you just printing on the cheapest paper you can get while not using a profile, and then printing the same image with designated paper and a profile. Thank you
Thanks - I'll have a look at that next time I've a new printer sent to me to test. The problem is partly that video is utterly useless for showing any subtlety in print colours - it's tricky even with photos in my proper written articles... but with people using things like phones, all bets are off
@@KeithCooper I would hope the difference would be massive. Thank you again for all the hard work and effort. Tomorrow my $600 ET-8550 arrives and I get to tuning and geeking out. I'll have your vids riding shotgun. Thank you! Infinite love & gratitude from Colorado!
Hi Keith have just bought the et-8550 and have been watching your videos which I think are great. Where can I get the ICC profiles for this printer. many thanks.
Keith, thank you, for all of the helpful videos surrounding the Epson ET-8550. Question: the 8550 print driver has a Velvet Fine Art paper selection, but the 8550 printer doesn’t. What paper should I select on the printer if I’m usingVFA paper?
Happy new year Keith! :) I subcribed to your channel, as i like the simplicity but professionnalism of your review, and your amazing support for answering almost all question, it's actually amazing and very brave. I do lot's of fine art picture, im attracted by the ET-8550 for the all well know advantages . Now im more focus now on Matte and canvas, for true immertion in the image, i can't satand glossy specular print for some reasons :) im not sure this life saver printer for not spending 1k euros in print ink could satisfy me in quality in this subject? for matte and canvas fine art print.. I was hopping using the right paper and color profil and maybe some tricks after the print like spray (??) could world... If nto, which other printer will you recommand for 2023 please? do you think EPSON will update this printer this year? Thanks, and best wishes from France!
Thanks! I don't think the 8550 will be updated for some time yet. I'm afraid any 'better' printer will likely be more expensive and not have the ink economies. It all depends on if it's a business and budgets? BTW, I didn't realise people don't answer questions on their channels. Probably because I rarely ever watch stuff myself on YT ;-) The channel is still under 20k subs - perhaps if it grows much more I'll have to be a bit more selective, but not yet!
It will print, but how good it looks depends on it being a paper coated for inkjet use. Vellum paper is a rather generic term so I don't know for sure.
It is not always necessary [depends on the printer], but I've long advised it as a 'belt and braces' approach to stop wasting paper - takes but a moment and helps double check you've got the settings right. Certainly with a new printer I'd absolutely suggest it - maybe not once you are familiar and only use a few papers... It's just part of my process of setting up a sheet to print - especially since 'm often printing A3+ or A2
I don't actually know what that is? If it's a board, see the discussion in the main written review about thickness etc www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/ Unless it is a media meant for inkjet printing don't expect stellar results - once again, see the review.
Hi keith hope you are ok? and hope you answer. Im using the 8550 I just wanted to know what are the best settings on the printer and best paper for calendar prints? Kind regards
See my written review for more detail (the videos are generally just there to supplement the written, more detailed stuff ;-) ) www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/ There are no such things as 'best settings' or 'best paper' for that matter I'm afraid... Both depend on what you are printing and what you want it to look like.
Please explain what the function of the "Paper Type" setting in the printer menu is. Let me guess it mainly controls two variables: the amount of ink and the ratio of the pigment-black. As for colors, can paper type settings affect e.g. color cast of bw prints? Taking Hot Press paper for example. What different output should we expect with either VFA or Matte setting? Of course your best answer would be - why don't I try it myself.😃
Yes, ink use is one of the main reasons for media settings. It can set thickness, feed settings and other details. If you've not seen it, have a look at the main [written] review which looks at media and the ink-set in more detail ;-) www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Hello Keith. I've just bought the Canon Pro-100 and a bunch od semi-gloss paper with it Canon SG-201. Have you got the idea if this Epson printer supports ICC profile for Canon Papers?. Also, which printer would you choose for yourself? Epson ET-8550 or Canon Pro 100? The Epson has 6 colulours, whereas the Canon 8, which may result in richer uotput. What do you think? Best regards, Chris.
The 100 is a printer I never much liked - the 200 is a vast improvement from a usability POV It's also years old, so the 8550 would get my choice - the ink number differences are mostly marketing ;-) It's how they are used is what makes the difference - the 8550 has a pigment black.. However the availability of profiles is likely easier for the 100 - the epson support profiles for any paper, but not from Epson, so you need to get the profiles made by the paper supplier (for 3rd party paper) or yourself Epson do not make profiles for other company's paper
Hi Keith! Thank you for all the details. I just purchased here in Romania the equivalent L8180 and I was wondering what fine art Epson paper will work best for fine art automotive photography. With a lot of dark areas and gradients. Is the velvet a good one? I would like to print some A3 prints and I want to get the best paper available. Thank you so much!
@@KeithCooper Hi Keith! Any idea how to get icc profiles for the Hahnemuehle papers that work with the et-8550? I have some of their sample packs and I’m not sure what profiles work best for matt and glossy fineart papers from them. And they don’t provide the icc for this epson. Thank you so much!
Thanks for the great reviews and info! Was just wondering what are your thoughts on quality of photo printing of the ET-8550 vs the Canon Pixma Pro 200?
Two quite different printers - very dependent on the media choice and what sorts of prints you want to make. The light colours potentially give smoother gradations for the 200 - but results are critically dependent on media and profile quality. The pigment black of the 8550 with the VFA makes for interesting results (see my reviews and articles) My suspicion is that the ink tank size will matter more to people wanting a more general printer
If you are using paper that has a profile for your printer, do you still need to print the test image and send it to them and get a custom profile on top of that?
I recently saw a video on this printer where the speaker indicated that one could refill the eco tanks with pigment inks rather instead of dye inks. I’m suspicious that this would create problems, but don’t know enough to be sure. Can you comment on this or direct me to someplace where you have commented on it before?
Refilling involves some inks mixing and that can have unwanted results in the fine tubes of the print heads. That means it ideally needs doing on a fresh uninitiated printer. Problem then is what you do if there is a problem, since you've likely just killed your warranty... I've heard of people setting up printers with dye-sub inks - these tend to be more reactive than the normal aqueous ones and can limit the printer life. Even if you do get the pigments to work [say Epson pigment ink] there is then the problem that the driver is not set for the right ink mix for generating the right colours - this might be helped by custom icc profiling, but no guarantees there. Not something I'd do on a printer of mine ;-) I've heard of third party ink sets for B&W, but unless a supplier wants to send me some kit to test, I can't afford to buy such kit just on a whim ;-)
Any suggestions on self adhesive papers? Let´s say You want to print sheets of logos etc. I´m aware of the possible need of laminating them afterwards. But is there any particular paper you could recommend?
Only papers that are designed for normal inkjet use - often experimenting is the only way to know... Most of the vinyl types simply won't accept the ink from normal desktop printers of the type I look at. There are so many brands and suppliers round the world that I couldn't suggest anything specific
Thanks - only sticker paper meant specifically for inkjet use with normal inks. For paper - read the main [written] review www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/ it has paper and profiling information. It also has links to all my 8550 related videos... ;-)
I mostly print on white backgrounds, having problems with my current paper. I use 260gsm A4 which is too thick for front cassette 2 and jams the printer. I use the same gsm for A3 also having problems with marks on the A3. Had similar problems on the Eco Tank 7750. Looking for the perfect GSM and paper quality for the 8550. Any recommendations?
IMHO The front cassette is of no real use other than for plain paper, or perhaps very thin photo paper. All my significant printing went in via the top rear slot. The rear direct feed is worth trying too. Perhaps find a paper with a tougher surface? I can't really suggest any other than the ones I tested in the review (which are limited to my local UK paper suppliers - listed in the written review).
@@KeithCooper i have been using the built in windows photo viewer to print, maybe that was the problem, will try the epson print layout to see if I get better results
Thank you for all your videos. I’m getting an error every time I try to go to your website to read the full review. Do you know if anyone else is having this issue?
yes, I'm afraid the site has some severe problems - sorry about this, but it is still there. I thought I'd fixed things, but seemingly not (it was fine yesterday!)
hello keith I have an Epson 8550 and I have problems with my Canson platinum fiber rag 13x18cm paper.. I get a photo with uneven margins. (I don't have this problem with ilford pearl satin type paper which is not fine art.) I have the impression that the image is shifted which means that the margins do not correspond. I specify that I slide the sheet into the rear tray of the printer I carried out a nozzle verification test and it seems correctly calibrated
Why the rear slot? I printed similar small papers via the top. The rear slot is a bit clunky to use and has distinct border limitations. Have you tried specifying a custom paper size - the one you mention is not one I've ever seen?
@@KeithCooper thank you for your reply I'm talking about the rear tray as you don't use the slot. do not worry I tried the custom dimensions, and it doesn't change.. the bottom image seems shifted, which probably gives irregular margins.. This really seems to come from fine art paper, because I have no problems with ilford satin non-fine art paper
I would like to point out that my non-fine art Ilford paper is also 13x18cm. (there is indeed 13x18 in the printer settings) I also pass the paper from the top just like you
OK - check the actual size of the paper Also try printing from Epson Print Layout, just to be sure [you can tweak margins] Other than that, it's not an issue I've seen
I changed the size a little in the printer it's better but there's still something wrong... the image still seems shifted.. Do you have an email so I can send you an example photo?@@KeithCooper
I want to make 8 x 12 birthday cards for my grandchildren printing my art on real water-colour paper. Most printer papers that try and simulate water-colour paper are too smooth for my liking. Will the 8550 give decent results or will it be washed out?
Depends on what you mean by 'real'... If you mean paper sold for watercolour work, then it is unlikely to be suitably coated for inkjet inks. However there are a wide variety of textured papers that are. See for example the video about scanning a watercolour to make a card. Check the range of papers listed in my review for example - all my ones are from UK suppliers
It's thickness, not weight which limits things. I've printed poster board via the back. Via the top I had no difficulties with a 350gsm art paper... but I don't recall how thick that was. You'll need to check the published specs from Espon
I am printing on Glossy Paper but the ink seems to stay wet quite a while after it’s finished printing, and smears. Also always get black ink on the edges. So upset with this printer.
Sounds like a 'wrong' paper if it does not dry... Exactly what sort of paper is this? It is usually a very good printer, so something is definitely wrong - it is possible to get papers [especially cheaper ones] which just won't work. Rubbish paper is rubbish paper no matter how good the printer ;-)
Interestingly enough, for BW on some papers ABW mode works really better…but I tested 2 papers where the profiles provided by the suppliers were visibly better then ABW, both for contrast and neutrality…Canson Platinum Fibre Rag and Moab Lasal Semigloss. Stunning prints, far beyond my expectations with the 8550. The one that just do not work neither with ABW or the supplied profile is Canson Rag…nasty greenish cast in the shadows…I’ll try to make my own BW profile with the ColorMunki and the Velvet media setting, but I’m not expecting much…
Yes - paper performance can be quite variable - some don't work well. Did you see the extended B&W info and media settings choice in the main [written] review? www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
@@KeithCooper Yes I did…I also read your other article about fine tuning BW…I’ll grab my ColorMunki, take a deep breath and try the linearization thing…I remember trying something like that years ago with QuadToneRip but wasn’t successful…
You can use the MCT to remove unwanted settings - also, a profile and base media setting works just as well as amx files, especially since not all suppliers go that route when supplying icc profiles for papers. I make high end profiles for the larger large Canon printers and only supply profiles and a suggested media setting, not custom amx based ones. One issue is that they can affect operation of the B&W print mode with some choices of media setting
printing side down if I remember correctly The cassettes are only really of use for plain or very thin photo paper - personally I found them of no use other than for plain paper.
No idea about bookbinding or what special requirements there are? Normal print - fine on plain paper. See my actual review for more detail www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
@@KeithCooper wow keith! that is a very long review which means there’s a lot to know so thank you for that. I was wondering if i could use a sand-tint plain a4 paper, and that of a random brand
@@majesticdragonfly Yes plain paper is for documents. Printed text looks fine with the black pigment ink - line diagrams [black] look great Anything with colour looks relatively poor on plain paper with the dye colour inks of the 8550 Print on a matte coated paper and colours do a lot better. If you want colour on plain paper, get a laser printer and be prepared to do a lot of experimenting if colour quality matters. There are sound reasons commercial books are printed with specific inks and paper types. See my actual review for much more about this www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
@@cosmicspidermanx9569 The rear [direct] feed supports custom page sizes - just not borderless, Oh and you get a longer training edge margin The top slot supports custom page sizes too - see my examples using EPL for printing and making pano prints - once again not borderless [no printer I've ever tested does borderless on custom page sizes]
Not quite so... The answer is what things you need to consider when looking at and choosing paper for the 8550. Given the necessarily limited range of papers tested in the full review, and the fact that I'm limited to papers available to me in the UK, it would futile to list papers, beyond those already considered. See the actual review (preferably the full written one with testing details) that would make the choice easier with a deeper look at what sorts of paper work best. www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/ The other take-away should be that a paper with an available ICC profile is likely a good one to test, and that papers without profiles are to be avoided unless you have a means of making them yourself...
Epson CPN Epson HPB Epson TPP Epson PGPP Could you please specify the full name of the epson paper associated with these ICC profiles? Trying to find the paper that has ICC profile to test in Australia. Thank you!
i feel like he said repeatedly that you have to do testing and that it depends on what you're doing and what kind of result you want; even as i was writing this he said it (seemingly again). if you want to produce physical media like prints, but you don't have the budget to buy paper, run test prints with profiles and stuff, etc... then that's kind of a catch-22 of your own making...
![Top Epson Ecotank maintenance tips [ET-8550 ET-8550]. Things to keep your inkjet printer healthy.](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/-bp0DeTX35Q/mqdefault.jpg)
Wow, that's a lot of important info, a majority of which was way over my head. I'd never even heard of 'a profile' before. I appreciate this video and I'm going back to binge watch your other videos on ET-8550. Thank you (from Canada)
Thanks - all my 8550 articles/videos are referenced from the main [written] review at:
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
@@KeithCooper I wrote you a rather lengthy comment earlier and am now seeing this - thank you for sharing! RUclips is a great repository, but not so great for categorization - it can make targeted searches difficult, so this helps!
Thanks - I created a full index of all my videos for just this reason
www.northlight-images.co.uk/keith-cooper-photography-videos-index/ @@SweetMercyMarie
What a great videos! And I mean all of them. Exactly what I was looking for. Appreciate all your efforts and time you put in making these
Thanks - glad they are of interest
Keith I just bought this print based upon your videos! Can't wait to choose the papers now
If you've not seen it, do check the actual [i.e. written] review - a lot of paper related info there
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Thank you for all your great info. I did a lot of research before purchasing the ET8550. It just arrived yesterday and I have been enjoying coffee and binge watching your channel all morning before I unbox it. It has been very very helpful. I just make cards as a hobby, and might be looking to sell some of them just to support my hobby.. but I still want to have good quality. Your videos are so informative and I will be sharing them as I recommend this printer to other obvious. Thank you again for such detailed, excellent content.
Thanks - much appreciated!
The icc profiles I made are listed in the main [written] review - they are available on request if of use
That's my next video 😅
Julie - I'm curious how you're doing with your ET8550? I got the ET8500 2 days ago and I'm having a terrible time with my watercolor art looking faded on Epson Premium Presentation Paper Matte. I'm creating greeting cards. I have spent hours fiddling with settings and am near tears. Any advice?
@@nancye7520 that's kind of surprising. I'm getting incredible prints from mine. What type of settings are you using for the color adjustments? Depending on which program I print from, under more options I have left it to automatic. Although, I have used the ICM or no fix option and those work very well
@@julierossbrickley146 I spent all day fiddling and watching RUclips videos about ICC set profiles. 😑 around 4pm, I watched another vid by Easy Sunday Club, and the had a lot of good info-including the info that “it takes a lot of experimentation” to find just the right settings. So , I figured out I really need to print from Photoshop and intensify the images before printing on Epson matte presentation paper. I’m just exhausted with all this!! But I’m encouraged by today’s success. I just didn’t think I’d have to adjust every one of my images before hitting Print.
Thank you Keith for your great review - really appreciated to hear a professional analysis on the printer.
Glad it was of interest
Interesting - thanks Keith -the right paper is so important
Yes - a lot of printers get blamed for people's sub-optimal paper choices ;-)
I love your videos, they’re so informative, the only thing I don’t understand is what a profile is. Could you perhaps make a video explaining how to profile papers, as I understand now how necessary they are but not necessarily how to do them!
Thanks - I've several videos looking at profiles and making them - have a look at the colour management play list
Good videos and easy to follow. I just bought this printer as well and I am pleased with the quality. I too am an artist and want to print some original artwork.
Thanks - the main [written] review includes links to all articles/videos I've produced connected with the 8550
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Thanks for that, I had delay to start on photo printing, except for a couple of prints and brilliant as this printer is, your finding is the same, so now I know, when ready , I can then purchase.
Thanks
Thank you for this Helpful guide , i have just bought this printer .. it is still in the box once i calibrate my monitor i will be taking your advice , Very helpful indeed Keith.
Thanks - If you've not seen it, see the main written review as well, it lists al the videos and articles I've done covering this printer
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Thanks Keith great video as was your review, im new to photo printers but looking forward to picking this up in a couple of days and thanks to you i wont be wasting ink or paper
Glad it was helpful!
Great printer ! I got my ET 8550 a week ago and have been testing papers. I've been mostly testing Red River Paper a USA company. Red River is easy to work with.
Yes - I have tested some of their papers, which they shipped to the UK for me
Thank you for all the information. Helped me decide on this printer and now I’ll be ready fr when it arrives
Glad to help
Every obscure question I come across, you have a detailed video guide on, love it!
A3+ is very expensive in Australia, we have something called SRA3 (bigger than A3 but quite A3+), nothing in the user manual though, maybe a custom paper profile would work.
Thanks
That paper size isn't one I know - the profile is for the basic paper, not its size.
I don't know, but is that size listed in the printer settings for the 8550 in Oz?
Thank you Keith for this video. Hello from France. I just bought this printer and I'm waiting for the delivery. You just saved me money. I wanted to know if you have ever loaded paper in rolls. Best regards.
Thanks - There is a video of a panoramic print made with a length of paper cut from a roll.
See the review (and list of videos) at:
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Hi Keith, Thank you so much for your videos on this printer. I got it based on your input. Do you know if there are ICC profiles for the EPSON Fine Art Cotton Smooth Bright paper or any of newer Epson Fine Art Paper? Also, where can I find your ICC profiles for the ET-8550? Thanks again really appreciate it
Thanks
The profiles made are those listed in the main [written] review - email me at Northlight for them.
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
and
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8500-printer-review/
Thanks for all your videos, there are so good. I have just purchased the ET-8500 and want to purchase some A6 papers. Do profiles matter for smaller print sizes loke this ?
Thanks
The profile is for the combination of paper/printer/media-setting - paper size has nothing to do with this. For more info, see my 8500/8550 reviews [the printers are identical, but for size]
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
and
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8500-printer-review/
Your videos and info are killer first of all. I am curious if any of your videos show the difference between you just printing on the cheapest paper you can get while not using a profile, and then printing the same image with designated paper and a profile. Thank you
Thanks - I'll have a look at that next time I've a new printer sent to me to test.
The problem is partly that video is utterly useless for showing any subtlety in print colours - it's tricky even with photos in my proper written articles... but with people using things like phones, all bets are off
@@KeithCooper I would hope the difference would be massive. Thank you again for all the hard work and effort. Tomorrow my $600 ET-8550 arrives and I get to tuning and geeking out. I'll have your vids riding shotgun. Thank you!
Infinite love & gratitude from Colorado!
Hi Keith have just bought the et-8550 and have been watching your videos which I think are great. Where can I get the ICC profiles for this printer. many thanks.
Thanks- Available on request - email me at Northlight Images
See the main [written] review:
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Keith, thank you, for all of the helpful videos surrounding the Epson ET-8550. Question: the 8550 print driver has a Velvet Fine Art paper selection, but the 8550 printer doesn’t. What paper should I select on the printer if I’m usingVFA paper?
Happy new year Keith! :) I subcribed to your channel, as i like the simplicity but professionnalism of your review, and your amazing support for answering almost all question, it's actually amazing and very brave. I do lot's of fine art picture, im attracted by the ET-8550 for the all well know advantages . Now im more focus now on Matte and canvas, for true immertion in the image, i can't satand glossy specular print for some reasons :) im not sure this life saver printer for not spending 1k euros in print ink could satisfy me in quality in this subject? for matte and canvas fine art print.. I was hopping using the right paper and color profil and maybe some tricks after the print like spray (??) could world... If nto, which other printer will you recommand for 2023 please? do you think EPSON will update this printer this year? Thanks, and best wishes from France!
Thanks!
I don't think the 8550 will be updated for some time yet.
I'm afraid any 'better' printer will likely be more expensive and not have the ink economies. It all depends on if it's a business and budgets?
BTW, I didn't realise people don't answer questions on their channels. Probably because I rarely ever watch stuff myself on YT ;-)
The channel is still under 20k subs - perhaps if it grows much more I'll have to be a bit more selective, but not yet!
Thank you for this great video! I have a question. Can this printer print on Vellum Paper?
It will print, but how good it looks depends on it being a paper coated for inkjet use.
Vellum paper is a rather generic term so I don't know for sure.
Is it necessary to set the paper on the printer (Velvet Art or Semigloss, etc.) or is it sufficient to select it in Lightroom or Epson Print Layout?
It is not always necessary [depends on the printer], but I've long advised it as a 'belt and braces' approach to stop wasting paper - takes but a moment and helps double check you've got the settings right.
Certainly with a new printer I'd absolutely suggest it - maybe not once you are familiar and only use a few papers...
It's just part of my process of setting up a sheet to print - especially since 'm often printing A3+ or A2
@@KeithCooper Many thanks for the quick reply. Greetings from Switzerland 🙂
Thank you for this video. I was wondering about trying to print on Bristol, but I didn’t want to ruin my printer.
Glad I could help!
@@KeithCooper Could it cause any damage running a 11x17 Bristol through it?
I don't actually know what that is?
If it's a board, see the discussion in the main written review about thickness etc
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Unless it is a media meant for inkjet printing don't expect stellar results - once again, see the review.
@@KeithCooper I will do that. Thank you so much
Hi keith hope you are ok? and hope you answer. Im using the 8550 I just wanted to know what are the best settings on the printer and best paper for calendar prints? Kind regards
See my written review for more detail (the videos are generally just there to supplement the written, more detailed stuff ;-) )
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
There are no such things as 'best settings' or 'best paper' for that matter I'm afraid...
Both depend on what you are printing and what you want it to look like.
Please explain what the function of the "Paper Type" setting in the printer menu is. Let me guess it mainly controls two variables: the amount of ink and the ratio of the pigment-black. As for colors, can paper type settings affect e.g. color cast of bw prints? Taking Hot Press paper for example. What different output should we expect with either VFA or Matte setting?
Of course your best answer would be - why don't I try it myself.😃
Yes, ink use is one of the main reasons for media settings. It can set thickness, feed settings and other details.
If you've not seen it, have a look at the main [written] review which looks at media and the ink-set in more detail ;-)
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Thank you kindly. This is genuinely useful information.
Glad it was helpful!
Hello Keith. I've just bought the Canon Pro-100 and a bunch od semi-gloss paper with it Canon SG-201. Have you got the idea if this Epson printer supports ICC profile for Canon Papers?.
Also, which printer would you choose for yourself? Epson ET-8550 or Canon Pro 100? The Epson has 6 colulours, whereas the Canon 8, which may result in richer uotput. What do you think?
Best regards, Chris.
The 100 is a printer I never much liked - the 200 is a vast improvement from a usability POV
It's also years old, so the 8550 would get my choice - the ink number differences are mostly marketing ;-) It's how they are used is what makes the difference - the 8550 has a pigment black..
However the availability of profiles is likely easier for the 100 - the epson support profiles for any paper, but not from Epson, so you need to get the profiles made by the paper supplier (for 3rd party paper) or yourself
Epson do not make profiles for other company's paper
Hi Keith! Thank you for all the details. I just purchased here in Romania the equivalent L8180 and I was wondering what fine art Epson paper will work best for fine art automotive photography. With a lot of dark areas and gradients. Is the velvet a good one? I would like to print some A3 prints and I want to get the best paper available. Thank you so much!
Yes, VFA works well - see my written review for lots more details, and the profiles I created.
@@KeithCooper Thank you so much for your support and for your great work!
@@KeithCooper Hi Keith! Any idea how to get icc profiles for the Hahnemuehle papers that work with the et-8550? I have some of their sample packs and I’m not sure what profiles work best for matt and glossy fineart papers from them. And they don’t provide the icc for this epson. Thank you so much!
Ask them again - directly. I had heard that there was likely to be support for some of their papers@@anmic3590
@@KeithCooper I’ll do that! Thank you so much!
Thanks for the great reviews and info! Was just wondering what are your thoughts on quality of photo printing of the ET-8550 vs the Canon Pixma Pro 200?
Two quite different printers - very dependent on the media choice and what sorts of prints you want to make.
The light colours potentially give smoother gradations for the 200 - but results are critically dependent on media and profile quality. The pigment black of the 8550 with the VFA makes for interesting results (see my reviews and articles)
My suspicion is that the ink tank size will matter more to people wanting a more general printer
Always appreciate your vids!!!
If you are using paper that has a profile for your printer, do you still need to print the test image and send it to them and get a custom profile on top of that?
If they supply a profile, use that one. Any profile made for you is unlikely to be better
I recently saw a video on this printer where the speaker indicated that one could refill the eco tanks with pigment inks rather instead of dye inks. I’m suspicious that this would create problems, but don’t know enough to be sure. Can you comment on this or direct me to someplace where you have commented on it before?
Refilling involves some inks mixing and that can have unwanted results in the fine tubes of the print heads. That means it ideally needs doing on a fresh uninitiated printer. Problem then is what you do if there is a problem, since you've likely just killed your warranty...
I've heard of people setting up printers with dye-sub inks - these tend to be more reactive than the normal aqueous ones and can limit the printer life.
Even if you do get the pigments to work [say Epson pigment ink] there is then the problem that the driver is not set for the right ink mix for generating the right colours - this might be helped by custom icc profiling, but no guarantees there.
Not something I'd do on a printer of mine ;-)
I've heard of third party ink sets for B&W, but unless a supplier wants to send me some kit to test, I can't afford to buy such kit just on a whim ;-)
Thank you , Keith. You confirmed my suspicions. I am guessing the presenter hadn’t tested the idea himself. Cheers!😊
Any suggestions on self adhesive papers? Let´s say You want to print sheets of logos etc. I´m aware of the possible need of laminating them afterwards. But is there any particular paper you could recommend?
Only papers that are designed for normal inkjet use - often experimenting is the only way to know...
Most of the vinyl types simply won't accept the ink from normal desktop printers of the type I look at.
There are so many brands and suppliers round the world that I couldn't suggest anything specific
@@KeithCooper Great, thank you.
Hi Keith are your ICC profiles available for download/purchase?
Check which one I've made in the main (written) review
Email me at Northlight Images?
They are free for non commercial use
Hallo sir, Can i use this printer >>> Epson L18050 fotoprinter Inkjet 5760 x 1440 DPI as sublimation printer for mugs and shirts > ?
Thank you.
No - some may try it, but it will void the warranty and likely much reduce the lifetime of the printer.
I only ever test printers with original inks
Thanks Mr. Cooper@@KeithCooper
Do you trust, or have tested, Red River profiles on their own paper with the 8550?
I have no reason not to...
However I only ever test printers with my own profiles, as described i the main [written] reviews
Can I print on sticker paper? And what paper can I use for art prints in colour. Thanks for sharing. Very useful information
Thanks - only sticker paper meant specifically for inkjet use with normal inks.
For paper - read the main [written] review
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
it has paper and profiling information.
It also has links to all my 8550 related videos... ;-)
Thanks. The ET 8550 is inkjet printer?
All the printers I review are inkjet printers...
Or Giclee if you are writing marketing copy to impress the easily impressed :-) :-)
@@KeithCooper I researched and it is inkjet printer. Thanks
Just curious - what sort of printer did you think it was? (not sure how it is marketed in some regions)
Would handmade paper work on this printer? (70gsm and around 300-350gsm)
It [usually] needs a suitable ink receptor coating to work on ANY inkjet printer, not just the 8550
Otherwise very prone to dull colour and ink bleed
I mostly print on white backgrounds, having problems with my current paper. I use 260gsm A4 which is too thick for front cassette 2 and jams the printer. I use the same gsm for A3 also having problems with marks on the A3. Had similar problems on the Eco Tank 7750. Looking for the perfect GSM and paper quality for the 8550. Any recommendations?
IMHO The front cassette is of no real use other than for plain paper, or perhaps very thin photo paper.
All my significant printing went in via the top rear slot. The rear direct feed is worth trying too.
Perhaps find a paper with a tougher surface? I can't really suggest any other than the ones I tested in the review (which are limited to my local UK paper suppliers - listed in the written review).
@@KeithCooper thanks Keith ordered some on amazon and will buy some at local supermarkets/shops tomorrow to see how it fares
@@KeithCooper i have been using the built in windows photo viewer to print, maybe that was the problem, will try the epson print layout to see if I get better results
Whilst it's a far better printing option (from an image quality POV) I'm not sure it will affect paper handling. Definitely worth trying though.
Thank you for all your videos. I’m getting an error every time I try to go to your website to read the full review. Do you know if anyone else is having this issue?
yes, I'm afraid the site has some severe problems - sorry about this, but it is still there.
I thought I'd fixed things, but seemingly not (it was fine yesterday!)
hello keith
I have an Epson 8550 and I have problems with my Canson platinum fiber rag 13x18cm paper..
I get a photo with uneven margins. (I don't have this problem with ilford pearl satin type paper which is not fine art.)
I have the impression that the image is shifted which means that the margins do not correspond.
I specify that I slide the sheet into the rear tray of the printer
I carried out a nozzle verification test and it seems correctly calibrated
Why the rear slot? I printed similar small papers via the top.
The rear slot is a bit clunky to use and has distinct border limitations.
Have you tried specifying a custom paper size - the one you mention is not one I've ever seen?
@@KeithCooper thank you for your reply
I'm talking about the rear tray as you don't use the slot. do not worry
I tried the custom dimensions, and it doesn't change..
the bottom image seems shifted, which probably gives irregular margins..
This really seems to come from fine art paper, because I have no problems with ilford satin non-fine art paper
I would like to point out that my non-fine art Ilford paper is also 13x18cm. (there is indeed 13x18 in the printer settings)
I also pass the paper from the top just like you
OK - check the actual size of the paper
Also try printing from Epson Print Layout, just to be sure [you can tweak margins]
Other than that, it's not an issue I've seen
I changed the size a little in the printer
it's better but there's still something wrong... the image still seems shifted..
Do you have an email so I can send you an example photo?@@KeithCooper
I want to make 8 x 12 birthday cards for my grandchildren printing my art on real water-colour paper. Most printer papers that try and simulate water-colour paper are too smooth for my liking. Will the 8550 give decent results or will it be washed out?
Depends on what you mean by 'real'... If you mean paper sold for watercolour work, then it is unlikely to be suitably coated for inkjet inks. However there are a wide variety of textured papers that are.
See for example the video about scanning a watercolour to make a card. Check the range of papers listed in my review for example - all my ones are from UK suppliers
Hello keith, thanks again for this...appreciate it so much...by the way what is the max gsm for the 8550? Thanks again and stay safe.
It's thickness, not weight which limits things. I've printed poster board via the back.
Via the top I had no difficulties with a 350gsm art paper... but I don't recall how thick that was. You'll need to check the published specs from Espon
@@KeithCooper Thank you. Yeah, i’ve watched your vid on the poster board. It’s nice to know that it can take up the thickness. 👍🏻
Did this printer change colors from white to black, I remember an earlier review and it was white?
It's black in all my reviews and articles
The white version is in the US I believe - same printer though
I am printing on Glossy Paper but the ink seems to stay wet quite a while after it’s finished printing, and smears. Also always get black ink on the edges. So upset with this printer.
Sounds like a 'wrong' paper if it does not dry...
Exactly what sort of paper is this?
It is usually a very good printer, so something is definitely wrong - it is possible to get papers [especially cheaper ones] which just won't work.
Rubbish paper is rubbish paper no matter how good the printer ;-)
Interestingly enough, for BW on some papers ABW mode works really better…but I tested 2 papers where the profiles provided by the suppliers were visibly better then ABW, both for contrast and neutrality…Canson Platinum Fibre Rag and Moab Lasal Semigloss. Stunning prints, far beyond my expectations with the 8550. The one that just do not work neither with ABW or the supplied profile is Canson Rag…nasty greenish cast in the shadows…I’ll try to make my own BW profile with the ColorMunki and the Velvet media setting, but I’m not expecting much…
Yes - paper performance can be quite variable - some don't work well.
Did you see the extended B&W info and media settings choice in the main [written] review?
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
@@KeithCooper Yes I did…I also read your other article about fine tuning BW…I’ll grab my ColorMunki, take a deep breath and try the linearization thing…I remember trying something like that years ago with QuadToneRip but wasn’t successful…
When I find the paper I like from the likes of Canson I use their am1x for the canon. Your only allowed so many on the printer though.
You can use the MCT to remove unwanted settings - also, a profile and base media setting works just as well as amx files, especially since not all suppliers go that route when supplying icc profiles for papers.
I make high end profiles for the larger large Canon printers and only supply profiles and a suggested media setting, not custom amx based ones. One issue is that they can affect operation of the B&W print mode with some choices of media setting
sir, Plse Reply, This Printer Art Card, Gloss/Matt Sheet Supported 300-350 GSM
Yes, but it needs to be card meant for inkjet use
@@KeithCooper OK SIR,
What are the weights of you papers?
See the ones tested in the main written review
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
how do you load paper into Cassette 2 for this printer
printing side down if I remember correctly
The cassettes are only really of use for plain or very thin photo paper - personally I found them of no use other than for plain paper.
Is it great for bookbinding? Regular document printing and what kind of paper can I use?
No idea about bookbinding or what special requirements there are?
Normal print - fine on plain paper.
See my actual review for more detail
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
@@KeithCooper wow keith! that is a very long review which means there’s a lot to know so thank you for that. I was wondering if i could use a sand-tint plain a4 paper, and that of a random brand
@@majesticdragonfly You can use it, but for anything more than text, plain paper won't be great
@@KeithCooper i see, the plain paper would not couple well with text and images or diagrams, to confirm what you’re saying?
@@majesticdragonfly Yes plain paper is for documents.
Printed text looks fine with the black pigment ink - line diagrams [black] look great
Anything with colour looks relatively poor on plain paper with the dye colour inks of the 8550
Print on a matte coated paper and colours do a lot better.
If you want colour on plain paper, get a laser printer and be prepared to do a lot of experimenting if colour quality matters.
There are sound reasons commercial books are printed with specific inks and paper types.
See my actual review for much more about this
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Can it print 12"x18"
Give the number of 13" x 19" prints I made, I'm going to say yes...
However, 12x18 is not a supported borderless size
@@KeithCooper would u know a work around? Looks like the rear tray only supports a3 a3+ and 11x17
@@cosmicspidermanx9569 The rear [direct] feed supports custom page sizes - just not borderless, Oh and you get a longer training edge margin
The top slot supports custom page sizes too - see my examples using EPL for printing and making pano prints - once again not borderless
[no printer I've ever tested does borderless on custom page sizes]
Workaround - print 13x19 and invest in a good quality roller cutter...
@@KeithCooper do u know of a good quality 13x19 card stock ?
ET 8550 Vs L 8180 Which one is best.?
Sorry - L 8180 is not a printer I know, so no answer is possible...
That was 10 minutes without answering the question "Which papers work with the ET-8550" ...
Not quite so...
The answer is what things you need to consider when looking at and choosing paper for the 8550.
Given the necessarily limited range of papers tested in the full review, and the fact that I'm limited to papers available to me in the UK, it would futile to list papers, beyond those already considered.
See the actual review (preferably the full written one with testing details) that would make the choice easier with a deeper look at what sorts of paper work best.
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
The other take-away should be that a paper with an available ICC profile is likely a good one to test, and that papers without profiles are to be avoided unless you have a means of making them yourself...
yep, I waited 10 mins as well for info that never came about "which papers work." Oh, well, back to reading amazon reviews for that.
Epson CPN
Epson HPB
Epson TPP
Epson PGPP
Could you please specify the full name of the epson paper associated with these ICC profiles? Trying to find the paper that has ICC profile to test in Australia. Thank you!
i feel like he said repeatedly that you have to do testing and that it depends on what you're doing and what kind of result you want; even as i was writing this he said it (seemingly again). if you want to produce physical media like prints, but you don't have the budget to buy paper, run test prints with profiles and stuff, etc... then that's kind of a catch-22 of your own making...