Here's another whole new approach to multi-gray digital negatives using QuadTone RIP
Updated for 2020: a powerful new native macOS application
Last year (2016), I released my QuadToneProfiler system for straight inkjet positive prints that used a combination of automated spreadsheet formulas and the standard QuadTone RIP curve creation program. Now, I am taking that to the next level with a digital negative curve creation system.
QuadToneProfiler-Pro DN
This new set of profiling tools takes all the great automated lookup and correction curve features from the original QuadToneProfiler tools and streamlines it even further by using my exclusive partitioning and linearization system. This now means the entire profiling process can be done without using the QuadToneRIP curve creation program at all. That also means no more need for ink descriptor text files or the headache of curve compiling errors (Lab values out of order anyone?). And, for people who bought the deluxe edition of the positive print version: stay tuned. it means no more needing to open your .quad files in a text editor (and whole lot less copying and pasting in general).
Who is this for?
This system is geared toward the people who are working with multi-gray ink sets (with 4 or more gray ink shades) who want to get the highest quality prints out of their digital negative system, but who also want the flexibility to create an ink sets that best suit their needs.
If you are using a standard Epson UltraChrome K3 ink set then this one is not for you. You really want the QuickCurve-DN system instead.
Now, if you have the PiezoDN system up and running (and are happy with it), then get back in the darkroom and make some prints ;-)
However, if you aren't so happy with it, or if you have a wonky printer, or if you mixed up your inks when refilling (because we’ve all been there… ) Well, then this is probably the solution for you.
If you are using any custom ink set like the one Sandy King developed for 8 diluted Epson PK, LK, and LLK inks and are making your own QTR curves then you will LOVE this.
How Does it work?
Well, the nuts and bolts are kinda a secret (and just a little boring… ) but basically, you measure three targets, input the measurement data, and the profiler does all the hard work for you.
You want more detail, don’t you? Ok, so it is all built around custom ink calibration images that you print and measure. The first target is to determine how much ink you need from each channel to evenly divide the grayscale. The measurements from that print are used to create a second ink calibration negative that you print and measure.
NEW Native macOS Application
The measurements from the second target is really where all the magic happens. The measurements are used to automatically partition the grayscale into individual ink ramps with a lot of smooth, overlapping, printer dot-filling slopes into an initial .quad file you can preview before exporting. As an added time saver, there is an option for an initial process correction curve generated from the same measurement data. If you really want to get granular you can use the initial partitioning values as a basis for editing the individual ink curves to change the slope or shape of one or more ink ramps and the ink load is automatically balanced to compensate for the changes. Yes, its a little fiddly and the quality of the original curves means its not really worth it in most cases...
So now you have an initial media setting that can be linearized with the included 21, 51, or 128 step negative. There is a little behind the scenes action that turns the 21 or 51 steps into 128 steps for the actual linearization calculations. You print that negative in the darkroom and enter the print measurements back into the profiler system. Et voila! You now have a set of linearized QTR curves. You want to adjust the output curve? That can be done with the same measurement data without touching any QTR-droplet or qidf file.
What All is included?
The Main Profiling Template with my Exclusive Automated Partitioning and Linearization Formulas
Photoshop Actions for Formatting the Ink Calibration Targets
Measurement Data Averaging and Error Correction Tools
Advanced Digital Negative Photoshop Sharpening Actions
40 Pages of Detailed Instructions with Illustration
25 Additional Pages of QTR specific material
1 Year of Email Support and Updates
What do you need?
Adobe Photoshop CS4 or newer for the actions to format the calibration images. I am all in on Adobe CC and it works with the latest version.
A measurement device and software (i1 Pro, ColorMunki, and SpyderPrint, plus manual densitometers and flatbed scanners). Treat yourself to a good used i1 Pro and don’t look back (make sure to get the scanning tray too though)
QuadTone RIP to serve as the print driver for macOS or QTRgui for Windows
PrintTool (on macOS) for printing the calibration images without color management and easier printing in general
Inkjet Transparency Material. I recommend Fixxons. It holds a TON of ink, dries fast, and is really affordable.
You will also need a printing process you love, some consistency in the darkroom, and some tunes to dance to...