"D.M. Procida" wrote in
message
...
I want to replace my old HP PhotoSmart 7150 with something smaller,
neater, a built-in scanner, and very importantly, better output.

The PhotoSmart's OK, but not brilliant.

The model I was considering was the Canon Pixma MP970, but I'm not
really up-to-date with printing.

Are the latest dye-based inks significantly better than they were five
years ago? Is it worth trying to find something that uses pigment-based
inks?

Is the number-of-ink-colours (7 in the MP970) a pointless bragging game
between manufacturers?

Thanks for any suggestions. I hope to get better and more consistent
prints from now on.

Daniele

If an all-in-one is what you're looking for, the Pixma MP970 will disappoint
you. The Pixma MP600 is a better buy and delivers great dye-based 4x6
photos.
If you want something that delivers a bit larger print, look for the Pixma
MP810 -- great color!