I bought my Epson Stylus 600 printer two years ago at a Computer Show. My main reason for choosing this model was because it was rated #1 in PC World's Top Ten Printers. I had never owned a color printer before, so my trust was placed solely on the professional opinion of another.

Bad move.

While I am not saying that the Stylus 600 is a piece of junk, I do have a problem with many of its features (failures).

Installation was simple, and Epson provided very easy illustrations and procedures. Windows 95 detected the new device without any problem, and I only needed to install the printer software from CD to get started. The overall print quality is plausible; photographs appear slightly "dotted" and color-text is much to faint. The printer requires 1 Black Ink and 1 Color Ink cartridge.

On the downside, the machine requires 2-3 minutes of "cycling" upon power-on. I use this term specifically to describe the horrible grinding sounds that the printer produces. The clunking and creaking can be heard two floors away! Typically, I will leave the POWER button off until I absolutely need to print - thus preserving my hearing and patience for years to come.

The worst scenario I have encountered with the Epson Stylus 600 is when there is a paper jam. The printer software seems to have a huge problem giving accurate readings. On several occasions, the machine completely locks up.

So what do I do, turn the POWER button off? OK, the switch is off, but wait... it's still blinking and producing error messages. It's possessed!

In cases like this, I have found no other way to reset the printer than by unplugging the cord. What nonsense - you would think they could have designed an emergency RESET button, or a power button that actually shut the printer off.

Two years ago, you would not hear such negativity. But in this time I have become familiar with brands such as Hewlett-Packard, whose printers are speedier AND quiet. My advice to prospective buyers is this: test the printer before you buy. Note picture quality AND text quality. Over the years, you will get to know your printer very well - so be sure to choose wisely.

"Silence is Golden"



Recommended: Yes