Just a quick note on printer papers.
Having bought a little bit of almost every photo paper that was available.
ignoring Canon paper for a moment. All of the below is based on Canon BCI-6 ink (not 3rd party).
Kodak Ultima (Satin and High Gloss) - so far overall best paper in terms of quality, longevity and price (especially when Compusa is running 50% off all photo paper).
Epson Photo Glossy - Looked real good when it first came out, but has faded the most in the attic test. It did fade evenly though. I was very disappointed as Epson was running in first until I went up to the attic to look.
Epson Photo Matte - On the other hand this one has not faded yet and is still the best paper I have found for B+W prints that look like traditional darkroom prints.
Office Depot Photo paper glossy - Mixed results to date, lacking in contrast (but not much) when it first comes out and has faded the second most in the attic test. but overall middle of the pack. Aviod OD Art Canvas paper though.
Ilford Pearl - Similiar results to Kodak, although it takes a bit longer to dry. Seems to be doing a slightly better job of holding color, but too close to tell at this point, much higher cost and limited local availability.
HP photo Glossy - horrible out of the printer, takes way too long to dry. However, holds up very well in the attic test. If I could get it to come out of the printer without blotching, I would probably use this paper if I needed to.
As to Canon paper,
The 8x10 and 4x6 sheets I have used are fine to date, but the 13x19" sheets faded to pink under flouresent lighting at work. The 13x19" prints at home are fine though. Canon Matte paper responds similiarly to Epson matte, except the Epson matte comes out with a blacker black then the Canon paper when doing B+W prints.
Just my experience. Use of non-Canon inks will probably result in different results. Currently conducting the back of the car window test.