Peter-
I have had several Canon Printers and have been very happy with all of them. 
Better than Epson's I previously used. Am presently using a i560 and a 
iP4000 and both do an excellent job for most printing needs. I haven't 
noticed any particular problems with the ink bleeding thru the paper.
Both do a good job on photo's. There are some more advanced printers, 5 
head, 7 head but the price goes up considerably.
I refill my ctg's numerous times with no problems. I prefer NCR or Universal 
brand refill inks.

My two cents-
John Dinges 

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