Launched in 2002, the JV3 marked Mimaki's first foray into solvent printing. According to Duncan Jeffries, marketing manager at Hybrid Services, Mimaki's UK and Ireland distributor, the machine "defined high-quality solvent printing" thanks to its "low-maintenance auto-cleaning system, vibrant inks and piezo head technology, delivering previously unheard of output quality".
It quickly became the entry-level solvent machine of choice for sign and graphics printers. Six years down the line, the company introduced the JV33, the natural successor to, and basically a pimped-up version of, the JV3. It kept the combination of speed and quality that set its predecessor apart, but was upgraded with the latest low-odour inks, high-speed printheads and updated media handling and maintenance features.
Multiple widths
Available in three widths - 1.3m (JV33-130), 1.6m (JV33-160) and the baby grand at 2.6m (JV33-260), which was introduced in 2009 - the JV33 doubled the speed of the JV3, delivering a production output of 12-15m2 per hour.
The 1.3m and the 1.6m models are essentially the same - bar the print width. The 2.6m model adds industrial strength media feed and take-up suitable for loading 100kg rolls of material.
Jeffries says that the beauty of the JV33 range is its versatility. "Not only does it suit a broad range of users, it also
provides a substantial creative resource for each one individually," he explains.
"Often, customers attend a demonstration with a specific requirement in mind, but they very soon discover the possibilities of what can be produced on the JV33. Be it paper prints, canvas, banner, backlit, vehicle wraps, labels and stickers, display graphics, signage, exhibition work and plenty more, it's able to accomplish it with ease, speed and at a very high quality."
Optional extras include matching-sized cutting plotters, meaning that print and cut can be achieved on a single unit.
New machines are priced at around £14,995 for a 130, £18.995 for a 160 and £39,995 for a 260. Prices include RasterLink Pro RIP software.
A good condition three-year-old JV33-130 could expect to realise up to 75% of its original purchase price, dependent upon condition. As PrintWeek went to press, Graphic Printing Technologies was selling a secondhand JV3-160 model priced at £5,995.
Hybrid carries spares across Mimaki's range of machines and for products that have been discontinued, spare parts are available for up to seven years. Hybrid supplies the majority of Mimaki's sign and graphics printers into the UK and Ireland with a two-year warranty, says Jeffries. "In addition, support contracts for subsequent years are available ensuring a range of options that aim to deliver complete peace of mind and a high level of service," he adds.
Specifications
Resolution 1,440x1,440dpi
Max print width
JV33-130 – 1,361mm
JV33-160 – 1,610mm
Speed
12-15m2 per hour
Footprint
JV33-130
2,289x739x1,424mm
JV33-160
2,538x739x1,424mm
Weight
JV33-130: 145kg
JV33-160: 160kg
What to look for
General wear and tear
Condition of printheads
