Digital BW, The Print

I'm new to this forum, so greetings to all. My main printer is an
Epson R 1800. A friend suggested that I try using the MIS Black carts
in my older 1280. I bought the inkset and, for now, prefer the black
only prints with Eboni Black. (I'm referring to B&W prints)
 However, I am experiencing frequent clogging of my heads requiring
head cleaning often. I'm not sure why this is occuring or what the
'cure' is. 
 Is this common when using alternative inksets? These are cartridges
bought from MIS not ones I have refilled. 
 In printing a portrait, there is a thin white line appearing
horizontally about 3/8 inch from the top and bottom of the print. It
is always in the same place and it does NOT appear when I make the
very same print on my 1800.
  It has been frustrating and I am tempted to return to my 1800 for
B&W prints since I had no clogging issues at all with the Epson inks.
(Though I must admit I prefer the 'look' and feel of the 1280 B&W prints.)
  Thanks
  Ginny