WHAT'S HOT: The new Epson Expression 1680 features powerful 48-bit color depth along with a high 1600-by-3200-dpi maximum resolution. We tested the dual-interface (USB and SCSI) Epson Expression 1680 Professional model using its SCSI connection, and as a result, it excelled in our speed tests. Its maximum data throughput when scanning at its maximum resolution trailed only two IEEE 1394 scanners, Microtek's ScanMaker 8700 and ScanMaker 5700.

Overall, the 1680's scan quality was excellent: It produced striking printed and on-screen images with well-saturated colors and crisp details in both shadows and highlights. Like the Expression 1600 Professional it replaces, the 1680 Professional scans both reflective and transparency materials right off the shelf. Included in the box is an industrial-strength transparency adapter with an 8-by-10-inch scanning area, plus a well-designed set of film holders for various-size film formats.

WHAT'S NOT: At $1149 (plus $79 for a third-party SCSI card and cable, which Epson neither includes as standard equipment nor sells as an option), the 1680 Professional costs considerably more than its closest corporate competitor, the $1000 Microtek ScanMaker 8700, another high-end, dual-format scanner. Although you can get an IEEE 1394 version of the Expression 1680 (which includes an IEEE 1394 card and a cable), it costs an even pricier $1399 and requires Windows 2000 or Windows Millennium Edition, unlike other units that function with Windows 98 SE.

Due to the standard 8.5-by-11-inch scan bed, the Expression 1680 series cannot handle legal-size documents without the purchase of an automatic document feeder (which costs an extra $499). Live technical support is not toll-free.

WHAT ELSE: The generous software bundle includes Adobe Photoshop 5.0 LE for image editing and LaserSoft Imaging SilverFast 5.1 for image enhancement, Monaco Systems' Monaco EZcolor 1.5 for color management support, ScanSoft TextBridge Pro 8.0 for optical character recognition, and Presto PageManager for document management. Additionally, Epson's TWAIN Pro 2.0 driver lets you batch-scan 35mm slides and filmstrips, 120 or 220 (medium-format) film, and 4-by-5-inch film. With the 1680's high resolution you'll be able to enlarge small images such as 35mm slides significantly without losing detail or color quality. The Expression 1680 is also available without the transparency adapter for $899.

BEST USE: The Epson Expression 1680 Professional is well suited for corporate graphics customers and those who demand top-quality reflective and transparency scanning. However, if 1200 dpi will suffice, the Microtek ScanMaker 8700 is a worthy alternative that costs a couple hundred dollars less.

SUMMARY

Epson Expression 1680 Professional USB and SCSI, 1600 by 3200 dpi, 13.1 by 22.1 by 5.2 inches (width by depth by height), 18.7 pounds, 8.5-by-11.7-inch scanning area; includes transparency adapter; optional automatic document feeder. One-year warranty; toll-call technical support for 12 hours on weekdays. $1228 ($1149 plus $79 for a SCSI card and cable) 800/463-7766 www.epson.com