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[VLFPrepressMN]

I am looking at two solutions for GCR in our company. GMG InkOptimizer and Alwan Color Hub. We currently use GMG ColoProof and GMG DotProof for our proofing. We have several presses on the floor ranging from small flexo to an 81" KBA 6 Color. The press count is 13 total so we go through a lot of metal and a ton of ink, conventional, Hybrid UV and UV. I myself worked for a print supplies distribution company doing installs of Alwan, GMG ColoProof, G7 press calibration and workflow installs. I know the tools and complexity of ACH as it pertains to GCR and ACH works very well in that regard. I have not worked with GMG InkOptimizer nor have I been trained on that product. We are very close to pulling the trigger on ACH but a recent test has stalled the project.

We have may customers that supply their own proofs. We want to do a color space transformation convert the file into the customer's color space. This way we can proof the file through GMG using a GRACoL MX4 (or MX5 in Flexo), then plate the job using curves established at press and not sacrifice the color integrity. The customer sent us a proof with an IT8 chart on that same proof so the data captured from the IT8 is a direct correlation to the status of the proofer the day the client's proof was made. That process is rather simple, and we used ACH to do this but the results were less than desired. The flesh tones went from neutral to yellow. The other areas of the piece looked nicer but the flesh tones were poor at best. Let's just say that if a customer was flying in for a press check, it would be embarassing to show that color.

My question is to all, What's better GMG InkOptimizer or Alwan Color Hub and why? I am hoping to see some GMG users chime in since I am so unfamiliar with that product. I know GolorProof very well and know that the iteration to do a color match is easy and the results are consistantly exceeding expectations of customers I have worked with.

On a sidebar, the ink savings we can expect is just a bonus. The real scope of this project is color space transformation. Any information would be much appreciated.

Mark