Epson Stylus Photo 950

Even our DTP and colour fade tests were handled well, with crisp, sharp text, bright colours and, again, smooth photos and graphics. The lack of banding and smooth results were particularly evident when contrasted with the output from the Lexmark Z65. Using Epson's Photo Quality Inkjet coated paper, we managed to print our four-page test in ten minutes and 39 seconds - and that was at the top 1,440dpi resolution. The colour fade tests were also exceptional, with a smooth blend between colours and none of the erratic stepping found on the Canon S820D's prints (see Reviews, issue 91, p124).

Unlike the Canon - and the Epson Stylus Photo 895 for that matter - the Stylus Photo 950 doesn't come with any standalone media readers. This is only a problem if you don't own a PC to connect it to, but any professional digital photographer will want to edit their photos first, which can only be done properly with a PC anyway. Their presence isn't missed, and neither is the extra cost they'd add to the unit.

The only potential obstacle is the weighty £323 asking price, although, while higher than average, it's phenomenally good value for money for the functionality included. You currently pay more than that just for a specific CD printer, which in many cases is merely a converted Epson Stylus Color 760. For this price, you get a CD printer, a roll feeder, borderless printing, an automatic paper cutter and catching system and the best print quality money can buy. Every area of printing from photos, through DTP and graphics to draft text is handled amazingly, and it's fast too. The Epson Stylus Photo 950 is simply the best.

Author: Ben Hardwidge