Melbee- I actually don't find the microns, especially the MP200-C, to really be all that picky about paint reductions, air pressure, etc. Definitely no more fussy than any other airbrush with a similar tip size, anyway. I mostly use Wicked Detail, Createx Illustration, or E'Tac EFX paints. The E'Tac is the easiest-spraying, IMO. But, with any of them, I use as little reducer as I can. Most of the time, I can get away with using no reducer at all. When I do, it's typically 10-20% (even less with the E'Tac). Tip dry is an annoyance, but not bad. When I want to do insane-tight detail, I'll reduce more (maybe up to 50%), and turn the air down to 10-15 psi. If you use a quality paint, spitting, clogs, etc really shouldn't be an issue (unless you're not cleaning your brush properly). As far as the nozzle crown cap, mine is sitting in a little cup along with the crown caps of the rest of my airbrushed. I'll put it on to protect the needle if I have to take the airbrushes out of my shop, but, for the most part, they just sit lonely. I bent more than a few needles, but eventually protecting the needle just becomes second nature. But, use it however you're comfortable. I hope it comes soon, and you enjy it as much as I enjoy mine ;-)