Following this month's launch of StudioRIP 3.0, the Leighton Buzzard-based company has claimed that the software, which was originally designed as a low-cost package for the second-hand imagesetter market, was now a "highly suitable alternative to mainstream RIP products".

StudioRIP technical director Paul Newman said: "This latest release combines all of our recent development work and delivers a product that performs to the highest of specifications."

The PostScript Level 3 and PDF 1.6 compatible RIP, which is suitable for use with CTP systems, imagesetters, inkjet and laser printers, is available from €600 (£513) and is customisable to users' needs.

Available options include the incorporation of post-RIP imposition, in-RIP trapping, ink duct control software, second order stochastic screening – with hybrid AM screening included as standard – TIFF output, multiple print engine output and digital proofing output.

Newman said: "One significant advantage offered by StudioRIP over the majority of competing software RIP products is the ability to include many workflow operations within the RIP architecture.

"Functions such as imposition and trapping can be included within StudioRIP, rather than users having to purchase separate software packages, usually at significant extra cost."

Other features of the RIP include a flexographic option, with flexographic screening, distortion, and imposition features all available.

The latest version of StudioRIP is available in the UK through the company's dealer network, with end pricing starting at €600 (£513) for the IE edition and rising to €5,560 for the full StudioRIP workflow package.

Pre-press professionals can download a free demo version of the software from the company's website studiorip.co.uk.