Looking for some help from the Experts

[KJT]

I am in the market for a entry level machine.

What I will need to do:
1. Print 100# 12x18 stock, front and back, with a yield of 9 units per sheet
2. Speed is not a huge issue...the success of production is not linked to volume. However I anticipate 10,000 clicks per month.
3. Full saturation 100% Graphics

Options:

You should know this is a start up business so my budget is limited.

1. Used Xerox Docucolor 3535
Xerox plans-Lease- $195/month plus .75 color and .03 b&w,
or $10,000 purchase w/.09 color and .07 b&w

2. Refurbished Docucolor 240- $12,000- No plan included

3. Used Xerox Work Centre 7000 series- $5000 plus eligable for plan

I greatly appreciate some guidance on this...it is hard to find valid opinion on this subject in my neck of the woods.

 

[KJT]

In addition I really cant outsource this work due to the turnaround time required. No local printers can accomodate my schedule demands.

 

[lfelton]

The 240 is a much more capable machine than the 3535. Remember that both are discontinued models, so you need to know exactly how long Xerox will continue maintenance. I recommend that you get a fully inclusive contract on whatever machine you go with. Good luck.

 

[JasonFF]

.75 per color click? Was that supposed to be .075? If not that is a less than stellar deal.

 

[GusG]

The 240 is a much more capable machine than the 3535.

As I'm also looking at a 240/250 but tempted by the price difference to a 3535, please do elaborate a bit on the "much more capable" bit.

How big is the difference really? Would it make sense to start with a 3535 until I can afford a 250 or should I stick to my DC12s (which are way too slow)?

 

[X33]

Avoid the DocuColor 3535. The specs on it say that it can run up to 250gsm only; that's less than 100lb cover. If you look at the design of the machine, the paper path has bad turns; you will get a lot of curling. Not reliable at all for the paper you want to use. Besides, it's a really old machine, I think it came out in 2004.

About, the WorkCentre 7000, I guess you are referring to the 7600 series based on the price. It does not have a Fiery controller, so if the color quality out of it is ok with you, it could be an alternative.

From the 3 options, the best one is the DocuColor 240. But it is an obsolete model, so you need to find out the maintenance cost on it. Whatever you get today, expect to go up every year.

 

[KJT]

If one does buy a used machine from a seller who is not an authorized Xerox rep., will the machine still qualify for a service package?

Is there any other manufacturers you would recommend for a start-up business.

I get the feeling Xerox is anti-leasing to startups and I feel like I am getting the cold shoulder when meeting with the reps in my area.

 

[X33]

KJT, first of all, in what country are you?

If you are in the U.S., any machine could qualify for service as long as it passes a service inspection.

There are leasing programs in the U.S. for startups; no need to have a super strong credit profile.