Describe your business
We are a commercial printing business that started in 1983. I run it with my wife, Shona, and we print most things from business stationery to colour leaflets and brochures.
Why did you choose this particular machine?
The Sanxin press was recommended to us by supplier Printers Superstore at a time when we were looking to replace an older Ryobi machine. We were invited down to their showroom in Leeds and the Sanxin was viewed by one of our press operators. He was shown the fully operational machine and that finalised our decision.
Did you have any reservations opting for a Chinese press?
Once the press was recommended and backed up by Printers Superstores I had no reservations at all.
What features do you particularly like?
As we've had Ryobi presses in the past, it was a very easy transition for our operators as many of the controls and functions are similar. The build quality is just as good as the Ryobi, while the component parts are also of good quality.
Is there anything that you dislike?
No there isn't. Our operators are very happy with it.
Are there any features that you wish it had that it doesn't?
No there aren't.
How reliable is it?
In the year or so since we bought the machine, we have found it to be very reliable. We frequently interchange work between the Sanxin and our existing Ryobi press, with no detrimental effect on quality.
How easy is it to use?
Our operators were trained on Ryobi presses, so the transition to this machine was very simple because a lot of the controls are the same.
What's the quality like?
The print quality stacks up well next to the Ryobi.
How much time or money has it saved?
As the machine was bought to replace an existing one, we have not considered this a money saving exercise.
Has it won you any new work?
The purchase was more about continuity, rather than conquering new markets.
Would you say that it offers value for money?
The machine compares very favourably with any B3 press at a fraction of the cost. In our experience, it definitely offers value for money.
Were there any difficulties experienced during the installation?
The whole process took two or three days and was
very painless.
What about the pre- and after-sale service?
The pre-service was great. The machine was installed by Printers Superstore, as well as a contingent of Chinese engineers. The after-sales service has also been brilliant. They respond immediately to phone calls and are always
very helpful.
Who do you think the system is right for?
I would say it's good for any medium-sized commercial printer and I would recommend this machine to anyone.
Would you consider buying another?
I would most definitely.
Conclusion
User’s verdict
Speed ****
Quality ****
Reliability ****
Value for money *****
Supplier’s response
Graham Moorby, joint managing director at Printers Superstore, says: Levenmouth Printers are among many users from a well-established UK user base who have found the YK52 series to be reliable, easy to use and, most importantly, profitable. Our GH and YK52 series of presses offer remarkable value for money. They produce work to a consistently very high standard and offer proven reliability, an impressive list of modern features and the competitive advantage of a lower cost per sheet than any of their rivals. Not only is the initial cost of the equipment low, but running costs are also low, in terms of original consumables, spares and servicing.
Price £149,950 with off-press controls and CIP4
Contact Printers Superstore 0113 208 8500