Directly replacing the Pro 8200 range first launched in November 2016, the new devices will be available in three configurations, with 111ppm and 136ppm versions aimed at print shops, CRDs and commercial printers, while a smaller 96ppm machine is designed for offices, schools and administrative operations.

Available across Europe as of this month, prices for the entry-level Pro 8300s start at £90,000.

“The digital black and white cut-sheet market is half the size of colour,” said Ricoh UK national sales director Simon Isaacs. “What is driving the print volumes up is on-demand book printing. Digital printing of books is the main growth area for monochrome digital printing.

“Publishers are moving to a print on-demand model, which is shifting production in favour of digital printing. With all this in mind, our new range has been tailored to deliver high quality results that perfectly meet the needs of these key market sectors.

“Our mono presses – both Pro 8100 and Pro 8200 engines – have been sold to customers across diverse market segments, ranging from general offices and schools, to commercial printers, in-plants and pay-for-print providers. The product concept of the new Pro 8300 is to further meet demands unique and common to each of these segments through the optimal system configuration.”

He highlighted that the range features a more compact footprint, robust production-like peripherals, and offered improved ease of use and productivity.

The fastest model of the new machine has a production cycle of around 4 million sheets and comes with a finisher capable of 30-sheet booklet production at 80gsm and a new cover interposer supporting coated media up to 350gsm.

Using Ricoh VCSEL (vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser) imaging technology, all three versions of the machine print at 2,400x4,800dpi resolution and feature a 17in touchscreen that can be linked to a tablet for remote operation, and which also shows the EFI controller interface without the need for a separate monitor.