Since the iP1600 uses only 2 ink tanks, as opposed to the 4 tanks used by the I550 I knew the ink was going to be an expensive proposition, upwards of $35.00 retail for both tanks. My previous printer the Canon I550 finally had the predicted print head problems and although it had worked well for a number of years I decided to chuck it and try the iP1600 instead. Canon gives these away as promotions with the purchase of a new computer system or they can be bought separate at the sub $50.00 range.
I decided to buy this printer with the full knowledge that it was 'first in breed' of a new line of disposable printers.
