Ok, that helps.
Caveat - my company is the master distributor for EFI RIPs in North America. We also sold GMG for 3 years.
First, I think you cant go wrong with any of those choices.
Second, do you have a preferred graphic arts reseller from whom you buy products?
This is (somewhat) important as dealers do not sell all RIPs.
Third, I think it is notable that Epson has a national OEM deal with EFI where Epson sells EFI Colorproof XF with the new 7900 and 9900. Epson could have done this deal with any RIP maker but chose EFI.
4th, all the RIP compnaies sell their own profile making software - like EFI Color Manager. If you are using this app solely for injet profiles, then it is the best choice. However, if you also want to use it for other devices or applications, then Monaco or Profile Maker makes sense.
5th, EFI is the only RIP that also has a complete curriculum of online training available. This is very helpful when training and retraining personnel.
6th, CGS and GMG - while great products - really want you to use their media. Their media is also excellent. However, it is also extremely expensive. ($1.20 - $1.45 per sq. ft.)
Chromaticity offers Validation Media that is converted at our own facility in Michigan. We have 3 grades that are SWOP and GRACoL certified with EFI and Epson. All users of our paper can be eligible for free tech support on EFI RIPs.
There are also some other subtle differences:
- EFI and GMG use Adobe PDF Print Engine technogy. CGS does not.
- CGS has an excellent hybrid proofing offering (with softproofing). GMG and EFI do not.
- CGS and GMG have a more robust overall product portfolio
- EFI has seemless integration with Fiery Controllers for digital engines (Xerox and Xanon, etc.)
- EFI has an offering called Fiery XF that actually is a lot less exepnsive that Colorproof XF ($1,995.00 to drive 9880) and - unless you need a Mac-based server - is identical to Colorproof XF.
you will find more EFI XF in our web site. There are online demos as well.
Chromaticity | EFI Colorproof™ XF 4.0
Please let us know if you need any more info.
Thanks,
ian