Key factors to consider when buying a wide format printer – Finale

Choosing a wide format printer

As previously discussed,the type of printing you need , (color, monochrome etc),  will influence your decision, make sure you have a clear understanding of what type of printing you'll be doing and what your monthly  print volume is expected to be .

Time for a metaphor:

The Corvette might look really cool, and you definitely WANT it, but that what you probably NEED, is the MiniVan, not as cool, but infinitely more practical, and in the end will cost you less to run, and is much more efficient.

You probably already have an inkjet device, (you know, the one that is too slow, but it is paid for), that you could pair with one of the monochrome LED systems that allows you to integrate your color inkjet device into their system, allowing you to Copy, Scan, and Print to your (paid for) inkjet, from their interface, and giving you the best of both worlds

And speaking of the interface, make sure that you go and see a demonstration of all of the solutions you’re interested in. Do not allow anyone to convince that there  is no need to go look at the competition. There is always a need to look at all of the options . An educated decision is a good decision.

When you go for a demonstration,  make sure you take sample files of the kind of work that you will be doing. (and I do mean “take with you”), also take your files, not files given to you by someone with a vested interest. Make your choice based on the things that matter to you, not the vendor. You and your users, have to be comfortable with the software interface, the loading and operation of the machine, the cost of operation etc.

While I am on the subject of software, look very carefully at any software that “comes with” the machine. Make sure that you are not paying a recurring monthly maintenance fee for software, (I am talking about Job/file submission software here).   Accounting software is a little different, depending on the level of acounting or tracking you need. All LED manufacturers can provide you account/tracking software, all but one charges for it.

Choosing a dealer

The dealer you choose can have a big impact on your overall satisfaction with your wide-format printer: service and support are the most important considerations. Whether you need a service technician to come out and repair a mechanical problem, or just have a question you need answered, the support offered by your dealership is critical.

Evaluating support can be difficult, but there are a few important steps you can take. When you visit the dealership, ask to tour the service department to get a sense for the size of their operation. Find out what avenues of support they offer: telephone or email-based help, online knowledgebases, discussion forums, etc. Also, inquire about their hours if you anticipate late-night printing sessions.

Many large-format printer dealers carry lines from multiple manufacturers, allowing you to compare print quality from different brands for yourself. If you do that make sure that get samples from multiple dealers, this allows you to compare output quality without bias.

Size isn't always  the best indication of dealer quality, however longevity may be. Small companies that have been around for a long time are likely to be just as dependable as larger companies. Smaller dealers may also offer a more personal touch, while larger dealers may have more of a selection, but these differences aren't critical.

You should look for a dealership that does a steady business in wide-format printers. Many dealers that focus on copiers, scanners, and standard-sized printers also carry a small selection of wide-format printers. Understandably, these dealers' expertise tends to center on the types of equipment they sell most often. You're better off with a dealer who's very familiar with wide-format printers.

Equipment Pricing

Pricing for wide-format printers and plotters can span a huge range.

Low-end wide-format printers, (less than 2 D size sheets per minute), start at less than $2,000 for small inkjet devices, and go up from there. A midrange 36" inkjet printer,        ( 2>3 D size prints per minute),  can range from $4,000 - $9,000 , and $9,000 - $19,000 for a toner based LED printer. (4 D size prints per minute)

A quick note on printer speeds. Inkjet speeds are always quoted at the fastest speed/lowest quality. More often than not, in order to get acceptable quality in the real world, means slowing the inkjet down below the stated speed. Whereas,  LED (Toner), printers always print at stated speed regardless of image density etc.

The mid volume range of LED printers, which can range in speed from 6 D size prints per minute up to 14 D size prints per minute, cost between $19,000 and $50,000, depending on the manufacturer and model

Production-class printers, which have a print capability of 18 to 22 D size prints per minute, range in price from  $50,000 to $200,000 again depending on the manufacturer and model.  

These machines are designed for much higher volumes of printing (hundreds of thousands of square feet per month) with speeds to match. These machines are only needed by specialized print for pay shops or the larger CAD shops.

You may be tempted to look at used wide-format printers, and you may be able to get a good deal. However, a wide-format printer's operational life is generally fairly short - they get outdated by improving technology within 3 to 5 years - so it's usually not worth buying used.

Maintenance and service agreements

Like copiers, LED printers require regular maintenance: cleaning, inspection, and replacing of worn parts. Keeping your printer well maintained is the best way to ensure quality of the prints and prolong its useful life.

Maintenance agreements for wide format LED printers are generally  priced on a per square foot printed per month. If you're new to wide-format printing,  or if you'll depend on the printer for day-to-day production, we strongly recommend that you purchase the maintenance agreement. Make sure the agreement covers on-site labor, and see if guaranteed response times are included.