spyder 4 calibration and prints still too dark

Well, that is always the goal.

Our only refference source is our monitor. When we see a certain value, shade or hue of yellow, pink, green or whatever color we want it the resulting print, if that IS our goal, to turn out to at least match what you basically are seeing. Otherwize the whole editing process would be totally MOOT.

Having a less than adequate printer is really not conducive to the process of learning how to print quality images you KNOW will reflect your hard work in your editing app.

The ultimate truth is that if you are using OEM inks for your printer and we assume that ALL you head nozzles are free flowing and you have not a single clog, and you are using OEM papers designed for your particular printer and inks, you should be able to print directly to your printer just using Window's printing application in the picture viewer. Just chose the correct paper choice to match the OEM paper you are using and with just the standard settings in your drive you should get a pretty nice print. But we don't just strive for "Nice" We strive for a much higher degree of excellence.

Just ask your sell if yourse if you would BUY your own print!