NEWSPAPER PRESSES -- Creating Commercial Niches

In addition to versatility, this press format also offers its users lower costs and faster makereadies. Straight printing with a 1x4 press requires 50 percent fewer plates than straight printing with a 2x4 press, adds Norris. That can cut the cost of plates, as well as the time necessary to make and mount them, in half. It also reduces prepress equipment requirements, making computer-to-plate a more financially viable option. The Heidelberg Mainstream and the MAN Roland Regioman are reportedly the only 1x4 presses sold to date.