Large Format Printers (Solvent)

[pazazlm]

We are a new business and are currently looking at purchasing a solvent printer. I had someone mention to me that Roland is a good brand to purchase and to look more into the 540 models. There are several SP-540, VP-540, XC-540. Does anyone know anything about these printers or have any other reccommendations? I'm looking for one that has a "contour cut" built in.

I've done a lot of research trying to find reviews and forums on wide format printing, but not having too much luck finding "user input" materials... Does anyone have any suggestions on this as well?

Thanks!

[PrintDriver]

Check out www.flaar.org
They are a non-biased testing facility. They recently became a pay for info site but you can usually glean enough info from their crazy, cramped websites to avoid buying anything. Though I do recommend, if you are just getting into the solvent printing business that you check out their materials.

I am not affiliated with them but for years I have used them as a very good resource on what's out there for printers. The Rolands that cut are relatively decent machines. Some models have head banding issues and others print slowly but the newer ones are supposed to be up there for quality. I haven't seen any recent prints though. Make sure your pre-purchase test prints are run at several different 'strike' options, not just the best (and the slowest) option.

Check out some of the other Solvents Flaar has on there. HP10000 or HP9000 are two others that are really good but they need a separate plotter to cut. I've seen prints off a Seiko that have been impressive too.

For printer/plotter forums check out Signweb.com (and others like it) and SGIA.org. I don't frequent their forums for various reasons but they may show you what the other industry guys are asking about these machines. Also, the various printer manufacturers should have purchaser websites you can access after you buy the machine that'll give you tips on materials and profiles. But that's after the fact unless you can get them to give you a trial look before buying.