The five-colour Pro C7200X is built for graphic arts applications while the four-colour Pro C7200 targets print rooms keen to reduce operational costs.

The equipment will retail for between £50,000 up to £100,000 depending on configuration and product type, said UK commercial printer director Tim Carter.

“Following the launch of the C7100 three years ago, we felt there was room to build on what has already been a successful product,” he explained.

“What our customers will find is an upgraded digital press with notable improvements that meet modern industry requirements.”

He added: “The kit was designed with commercial print organisations and print rooms looking to add value, drive a premium in digital print, and use CMYK but reduce operational costs.”

Auto calibration with inline sensors tightens colour stability, an auto adjuster improves registration and a fifth station offers wider scope for value-added print applications.

A new feature is to print white plus CMYK in a single pass to give coloured media added impact. The series introduces invisible red toner, suitable for entry-level security applications. A recently launched neon pink toner, as well as white, clear and neon yellow make up five colour options.

Carter added: “There are new opportunities for colours and the method for laying them down  – this offers new functions and capabilities and extends applications and opportunities.”

Productivity is increased with models printing up to either 95ppm or 85ppm plus auto duplex long sheet production up to 700mm, and simplex up to 1,260mm. Image quality is 2,400x4,800dpi.

The kit works on a wide range of media up to 360gsm. The new models streamline production with inline finishing: Options include the GBC eWire Binder, BDT Banner Sheet LCT and a Plockmatic banner sheet stacker. A new intuitive operator panel will improve usability.

A range of digital front end options are available with Fiery from EFI, and GWNX and the TotalFlow Print Server R62A from Ricoh. This digital front end integrates with various workflows.

Director of commercial printing Eef de Ridder said: “The systems address today’s market demands for greater complexity, faster turnaround times and varied run lengths.

“Enhancements improve quality, productivity and usability to ensure striking and engaging results can be achieved simply and smoothly.”

The Ricoh Pro C7200X series will be officially unveiled on 10 April, in Lisbon, Portugal and then at a series of events across Europe.