Aimed at high-end advertising, publishing and packaging markets, the Cromalin blue costs 17,600 for a B3 machine and 19,574 for B2.

It uses eight new-generation print heads to enable 1,500dpi output at a speed of seven minutes per B3 proof and 12 minutes per B2 proof, around three times faster than DuPont's AQ range of proofers.

It also features Drop-on-Demand (DoD) technology, continuing the move away from the continuous flow ink-jet (CFIJ) in the AQ.

"AQ has been the de facto engine for some time and we've been looking for replacement technology," said DuPont UK segment manager Jim Walker. "The new Cromalin blue really is the top end of the triangle, a leap forward for the AQ user base."

According to Walker, its DoD will reduce maintenance costs from 350-400 per month on the AQ to 150-200, with costs per proof reduced to around 2.

DuPont will continue to manufacture its AQ proofer alongside the Cromalin blue.

Cromalin blue features
- 17,600 for B3
- 19,574 for B2
- Cromanet colour management software
- Automatic in-line calibration
- External drum imaging