The cost per proof price will vary dependent on the media used, ie, Epson CrystalClear film is roughly one third of the price of the ClearProof film previously quoted. Also to consider is that when adding additional Spot colours to the Kodak Approval, you are increasing the cost per proof whereas the additional cost for multiple Spot colours on the Epson is minimal in comparison. Metallic, shrink film and sticky back substrates are all due for release in the coming months
With regards to RIP's, EFI, GMG and Star Proof seem to be the main solutions to date (the former two as they have a "Dot" option, the latter as it is a pure "Dot" proofing solution, like the Kodak Approval).
As to the market the Kodak Approval has traditionally targeted (Packaging I guess), we have produced proofs at 4000 resolution, 200lpi and the quality is outstanding. Even proofing high quality raster files which have been produced with the new the Esko HD Flexo screening, the dot quality in the highlight (stochastic) and midtone/shadows (AM) is also very sharp, impressive and representative.
Due to the properties of the white ink, it is also easy to adjust the density - running at 100%, the white is totally opaque but this can be adjusted to mimic the press/media conditions (ie. Low water/solvent ink viscosity for Flexo/Gravure, when printing Dry offset...etc) - dependent on the RIP used in front.
So the market would be Kodak Approval customers but the low price of the device should bring white ink and multi substrate proofing to the masses - From Large corps to smaller Label printers.
