The Epson Perfection 3200 Photo represents absolute quality scanning for the serious amateur or professional user.
It uses a matrix CCD and micro lens to produce an amazing 3,200dpi optical resolution. Even though it wasn't the highest optical resolution scanner this month, standing behind both the Microtek 4,800dpi scanners, it still produced stunning results without long scanning times, care of USB 2.0 and FireWire.
The 3200 was only just behind the Microtek scanners in terms of colour accuracy, making it ideal for design work, where you need colour to be as close to the original as possible. It also managed to produce excellent skin tones. The black and white photo came out a little dark overall, although there was no spiking in the histogram, indicating it had good tonal resolution.
The Epson Smart Panel software offers three separate user modes from novice to professional, providing simple access to copy, photo print, scan to email and OCR, even allowing you to scan directly to PDF.
Included with the scanner is a bundle of professional software; including SilverFast SE - a professional tool for removing dust, scratches and minor imperfections from your scanned images, as well as Adobe PhotoShop Elements, perfect for red-eye reduction touch ups, creating special effects and web animations.
An array of photo accessories adorns the package, including a 35mm film strip holder, slide and 4x5 inch film attachment.
While it is significantly more expensive than the Mitsubishi DV650U, the Epson 3200 has excellent image quality, a massive optical resolution and would make an ideal scanner for professionals and desktop publishing.