"It's a completely new addition to the range... it's there to fill a gap in the B2 entry-level market," said Neil Handforth, sales and marketing director of Ryobi's UK agent, Apex Digital Graphics.

Both the 15,000sph straight 784E and the two-back-two convertible perfector, the 784EP, will be available in two formats, the standard 765x545mm and a 765x580mm XL version.

Prices start at 330,000 for the straight version and 375,000 for the convertible. Both presses will use a similar cylinder configuration to the firm's B3 GX series, with each unit using a double diameter impression cylinder.

Handforth said: "It offers a straightforward step-up in knowledge... it's effectively a B2 version of the GX series but it has the same specification as the 750 series."

Unlike the 750 it won't be available with more than four units or a coater.

"But who knows what the future holds," added Handforth.

Semi-automatic plate-changing comes as standard as does ink volume setting and program inking via PCS (Ryobi's Printing Control System), which is mounted above the delivery to save space. "This press will save 40% on a conventional B2 four-colour," said Handforth.

The 784EP, which prints 14,000sph in perfecting mode, will be unveiled at Print 05 in Chicago in September.

Story by Darryl Danielli