I'm sure the 9800 would be fine for what I need but I would look at the 9880 if available. I've been offered a 9800 for a decent price. I haven't given up all hope on my 9600 just yet either :-)
It does seem that the emphasis is on 4 colour machines and whilst these are fine for most day to day work, as you say, for decent photographic work it just isn't enough. i'm really not sure why the 4+ colour machines are so expensive.