Color Management and National Geographic Print Quality

[jlind]

I admit that I didn't know where to put this question on the forum, since it is mostly offset and digi-centric. Color management covers such a broad area, well, maybe it will fit in. It's a two part question:
1. How is National Geo printed now (aside: always thought it was gravure)
2. What process in printing National Geo has recently been changed that would degrade the color quality?

That was the reason for the question. It seems that the quality of the printing has declined, according to certain "standard observers." (sic) Has anyone else observed this? This could belong in color management...

This is not a joke, but a serious inquiry.
John Lind
Cranberry Township, PA
724-776-4718

 

[meddington]

Re: Color Management and National Geographic Print Quality

Hi John,

>1. How is National Geo printed now (aside: always thought it was gravure)

As I understand it, the cover if offset, the body gravure. I think that holds true, but my subscription has run out.

>2. What process in printing National Geo has recently been changed that would degrade the color quality?

Well, I don't want to pick on anyone, but it has been the perception of some here at my company that the quality went downhill when a certain company was awarded the work...not saying that's my opinion, but its one I've heard voiced a few times.

 

[swduncan]

Re: Color Management and National Geographic Print Quality

John,

To my knowledge Quad/Graphics prints National Geographic, still using gravure.

How recent did you see the change, and specifically what changes have you seen?

Steve