Tell us about your business
Graphics@DXD has been running since 1999, originally servicing the exhibition industry. Originating as a one-man band when I bought the company, we now have six employees and three printers. By offering personal attention to detail, we found our corporate clients not only remained loyal but we grew through word of mouth and reputation. We are now a diversified wholesale sign company servicing high-end corporates, exhibitions, specialty theming, film and television, with a growing reputation in vehicle wrapping.
What have you bought?
We purchased a Roland DG SolJet Pro 4 XR-640 to replace our original Roland CJ500 printer that we had purchased a couple of years after we started the company.
What does the new press do?
While the intent for the new Roland – nicknamed “Speedie” – was to be the main vehicle wrap printer, it almost instantly became the preferential default printer because of the speed and quality with which it prints.
Why did you choose this product?
Previous experience with Roland DG has always been very positive. In addition, the Versaworks RIP software that is bundled with it just works. We also have another Roland SC545EX printer that also uses Versaworks.
Did you consider any other product?
In the months running up to the Sydney sign show, we looked into several other options. At the show we took a good look at the Roland with the guys from Starleaton and were more than happy with what we saw.
What features do you like most?
The availability of light black inks, the speed the machine and the quality of the print.
Is there anything you wish it had that it doesn’t?
One additional ink slot. I would like to run light black, white and metallic, however, I can only run two of the three with the current configuration. We also miss the orange and green inks from our CJ500 pigment machine for PMS matching.
How fast is it?
Twice as fast as our other printers, running at the high-quality settings that we operate as our default.
How reliable is it?
We have had no issues to date, and based on past performance over the past 10 years, we are not expecting any issues.
How easy is it to use?
Very easy. The menu system on the printer is step-through, and we were already using the RIP software.
Has it won you any new business?
It is allowing us to take on jobs that we previously would not have been able to handle due to capacity constraints and time. We plan to go after additional business based on our new possible timelines.
Has it saved time and money?
Absolutely. It has also negated the need to run printers 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as we were previously doing. It gives us a safety margin in relation to time and deadlines.
Were there any difficulties surrounding the install?
No, it all happened in one day. Walter from Starleaton knew exactly what he was doing. Everything went smoothly.
How has the pre- and after-sales service been?
Excellent. We have spoken to Walter several times with minor queries. No major queries have come up.
Would you buy another one?
Yes, but as I only have 80sqm of sign shop, I will have to extend the premises before I add a fourth printer to my collection.
Who is this product is right for?
Anyone looking for a printer that just works.
Supplier’s response
When the PRO4 was released, DXD quickly saw the potential to upgrade to this new generation of eco-solvent print-cut solutions from Roland, especially for vehicle wraps. One of DXD’s first jobs after a flawless installation was to wrap Starleaton’s own delivery van! The vibrant colours from the Roland ECO-SOL Max 2 inks, addition of white and silver and high productivity match DXD’s creative demands very well.
Gary Smith, director, Starleaton
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