Here's what I think (IMHO).

Epson was the first printing company to really develop archival inks and have large format printers for amateurs like myself.

My husbands computer magazine seems to always rate the 2200 as the best of the bunch.

I wanted something that was archival, could print large pictures and looked good. I have found that the pictures printed from it are often better quality than at stores or ont the web and the Premium Luster pape is the best! It is a non glossy paper that gives a professional finish.

The printer cannot print true 12x12 on 12x12 paper at this time but the small white border doesn't bother me and I could always print on larger paper and cut down. The 12x12 paper is able to be printed on both sides so that is good for the pocket book and anyone will agree that prints always look best if you use the same brand of paper as the printer. I am not sure if Cannon has a 12x12 or not.

And here is what I found on a review of the Cannon i9000 on the web:
Cons: Photo Paper Pro expensive in single packs, paper is hard to find in smaller towns requiring you to drive to Best Buy/CompUSA or order online, not as archival as Epson 2200

check out more reviews at: http://reviews.cnet.com/4852-3156_7-21070793.html to get the other side of the story too. Good luck!

Sprauncey1