What does it do?
This screening method combines the benefits of amplitude-modulated (AM) and frequency-modulated (FM) screening technologies. It enables higher screen resolutions and finer reproduction of detail in print – all of which enhances the overall print image quality. It does this by defining the smallest dot for highlight areas and the smallest dot for shadows and not allowing the dot size to fall below these values. The dot follows the angle of the AM screen, which produces a smooth transition between tonal values.
Why did you choose this particular screening method?
Because hybrid screening enhances the quality of pictures and screens by combining the best of conventional and stochastic screening to give really excellent results. It’s all part of the colour management process. Customers value their brand and want their products to be of a reliable and repeatable standard. Heidelberg’s Hybrid Screening helps us to achieve this.
Did you look at any other similar screening options?
Not really. We were made aware of Heidelberg’s screening option and we thought that it offered a step up from conventional methods.
Why did you make the purchase?
We made the purchase so we could offer better quality than our competition. We decided to take the product when we invested in the MetaDimension RIP and calibrated our Heidelberg B2 Speedmasters so that we knew everything was working together to achieve the best results.
What features do you particularly like?
The clarity of a good scan.
Is there anything that you dislike?
Sample matching previous jobs, say from another printer.
Is there anything that you wish it had that it doesn’t?
No.
What’s the quality like?
Quality matters to us because it matters to our customers and the quality that Heidelberg’s Hybrid Screening gives is very good.
How easy is it to use?
It’s really easy to use.
Has it won you any new work?
Yes. It is a great selling tool to open new doors as well as securing existing business. We work with a diverse range of customers including commercial and government bodies and also agencies. We recently moved to new 1,150m2 premises – in part to accommodate our new Speedmaster XL 75 press. We believe this gives the right impression of creativity and quality and the screening product further enhances this reputation.
Would you say that it offers value for money?
Well, we’d choose it again.
Were there any difficulties experienced during the installation or after?
No.
What about the pre- and after-sale service?
It’s been great. We were hugely impressed by Heidelberg’s engineering and dedication to quality.
Who do you think the process is right for?
Everybody involved in a printed piece of work from the design agency all the way through to the end-user
CONCLUSION
User’s verdict
Quality 5/5
Reliability 5/5
Value for money 5/5
Supplier’s response
Heidelberg’s Guy Elliott, Prinect and CTP product manager, says: “We are delighted that our Hybrid Screening option has proved so successful for Print Library and their customers. Heidelberg realises that printers have to offer additional quality for their customers and so we offer a full range of screening from irrational to FM as well as Hybrid.”
Read the original article at www.printweek.com.
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