Digital darkroom - printer

I am new to digital photography and have been taking pictures for a few months. Now, I want to be able to make prints up to 8 x 10, suitable for framing. I was looking for input as to people's experience with various printers - Canon, HP, Epson, etc. Alternatively, if someone can point me to a site, or sites, where there are reviews I can read, then this is also great. :D

Any insight that anyone would care to provide will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

WesternGuy

Photo Printer Reviews >>

I've had a couple of Epsons and had problems with both. It's likely that I don't use printers enough to keep the print heads in good shape, though. My last Epson would smear every print. I don't know why. Moved a few months ago and tossed the $500 boat anchor in the garbage.

I've had an HP Photosmart 7960 in the office for over a year and it has been solid. I have had little or no problems with it and the print quality is excellent. It has restored my faith in inkjet printers and if I bought another printer it would likely be an HP.

Thanks Photo-John, for the comments and the reference to the various printer reviews. It looks like I have a bit more research to do.

WesternGuy

John brings up a good point - if you have a printer, then you need to use it, and use it often. Like every couple of days make a print, even a 4x6, just to keep the ink flowing. I've been using Mpix and a local place and don't even own a printer - been very happy with the quality too. I had an Epson that met the same fate...

Thanks for the insight anotherview.

WG