The London-based large format reseller takes over from Durst's previous Omega 1 distribution partner Spandex and will also sell the Omega 2 from January 2013, when it is released.

Jason Burroughs, managing director of Perfect Colours, said: "We are delighted to have been selected as the UK distributor for these fantastic machines. We have invested heavily in training, tooling and a demonstration facility to ensure the highest levels of service and support for customers of the Omega series.

"We are confident that the combination of superior quality and speed as well as the flexibility to print on a vast range of substrates is a winning combination and we welcome potential customers to our facility in London to see for themselves the printers in action."

Both Omega printers have a maximum print width of 1,600mm and a maximum resolution of 1,728dpi. Output speed varies from 9sqm/hr for backlit media to 35sqm/hr for billboard; high quality print speed is 18.9sqm/hr.

Maximum media thickness is 50mm for rigid media and up to 2mm for roll-to-roll, while the maximum media weight is 50kg for both boards and rolls. The smallest sheet size is 29.7x42cm and multiple small sheets can be printed using the optional vacuum table board.

Similarly, both devices can be specified with four or six ink channels, with the extra two channels available in a number of configurations, including light cyan and light magenta, orange and violet, grey and white, or double white.

However, while the Omega 1 features standard UV curing lamps, the Omega 2 uses air-cooled 398nm UV LED lamps and new inks that are "almost entirely odourless" and allow the same output speed despite the lower-energy output.

According to Durst, the UV LED lamps require one quarter of the output of medium pressure UV mercury vapour lamps, leading to a saving of 6,500kWh per year based on a single-shift operation.

In addition, the lower heat means the Omega 2 can print on thermally sensitive materials, such as thin slides, self-adhesive sheets, or stretched ceiling materials made of PVC fabric.

Durst, which has its headquarters in Italy, will continue to sell its main Rho series inkjet printers direct into the UK from its base in Leatherhead, Surrey.