I just bought the Epson 1280. It gives me just about what I want and the inks according to Epson have a 26 year span. We use to have this prblem in photography. It might be possible to spray a UV coating and extend the life. However, if you need archival properties, them the Epson 2000p is the only way to go. The inks are 100 year and with the archival paper make for nice fine art work. However, if you are hooked on the vibrant colors you get from ink jet, then it is somewhat disapointing as they are more closely related to real photographic colors. Its also pricy at $799 although some of the photo mags have had it listed at $729.