Non Standard Paper with Canon Pixma MP610

[billM]

I recently purchased a Canon Pixma MP610 to replace an Epson Stylus Color 600. I am used to using 67# cover stock for certain projects such as 1/2 fold cards. I am dismayed to find that Canon says their printers do not support papers over 28# text unless they are Canon Specialty papers and that should the use of non-authorized papers cause damage to the printer, the printer will not be covered under warranty.

I am wondering:
-Does anyone have experience using heavier weight non-standard paper with this (or similar Canon) printers, and, if so, is this a real problem? Are their any tips for the use of heavier papers with this printer?
-Do you have a printer you would recommend that provides good quality on photos, and on text and that can handle a variety of paper sizes and weights without requiring proprietary paper stock, and whose ink costs are not excessive (my primary reason for not sticking with Epson)?

Thanks,
billM