Here at Prizma Graphics we have already talked much about the newly introduced HP Z6 and Z9+ Postscript Photo Printers, and in particular, their exciting new technology that enables high quality prints to be produced faster while using less ink.
The inks used in the HP Z6 and Z9+ are in themselves worthy of some attention. HP's new printhead dual drop technology means that light inks are not required, hence only nine HP Vivid Photo inks are included instead of the standard twelve, while still maintaining the same print quality. In addition, all nine inks are pigment based making them fade-resistant and waterproof.
However, there are other fantastic features incorporated into the Z6 and Z9+ that must not be overlooked. The faster rate of print output, an impressive 2.5 times faster in fact, is supported by the dual roll facility with automatic roll switching minimising valuable time being spent on media changes. Large and complex files are processed with ease due to the powerful processor and Adobe PDF print engine belonging to both models, and even challenging colour combinations are successfully achieved with smooth gradients thanks to HP Pixel Control. Plus, protection of your device, data and documents is guaranteed by HP's Secure Boot inbuilt technology.
So, with all the technical advantages the Z6 and Z9+ have to offer, what paper will enable you to get the best print results possible?
To give you some insight into the high level and wide variety of print output that can be achieved with both models, we have put together an easy to follow list of our recommended media for you to select the exact paper to fit your requirements.
For presentation prints and maps
Our premium quality coated plotter papers in 100gsm and 120gsm weights are especially designed to accept the high 2400 dpi ink loads that the Z6 and Z9+ printheads output. These smooth, beautifully finished coated papers in a heavier weight create sharp lines and solid, vivid colours with superb contrast adding a touch of quality to your presentation prints.
For posters, full colour graphic displays and photographic quality prints
These heavier weight papers offer more durability for longer lasting and impressive photographic quality prints and bring a luxurious feel to your artwork.
Our Matt Coated Inkjet Poster Paper 165gsm has been specially formulated with a non-reflective matt coating for high quality prints with excellent line definition, low show through on the reverse and is guaranteed to lay flat.
Our premium quality 180gsm paper is a slightly heavier paper for added durability while creating vibrant colour prints with exceptionally dense blacks and an all important short drying time for back to back printing.
A luxurious finish is enhanced further with our Photo Satin Instant Dry Inkjet Paper in a 200gsm weight for superb full colour graphics that dry instantly for immediate handling without smudging.
Digital Fine Art Media
For the creation of original fine art prints, a watercolour paper with a natural, off white appearance will provide the best quality results. For this reason we highly recommend our Smooth Natural White Inkjet Paper available in 210gsm or 220gsm weights which has a soft finish similar to etching paper. This media is also acid free and is produced to archival standards which makes it the perfect choice for fine art photographic reproductions with no optical brighteners and an excellent colour gamut.
Canvas Prints
For affordable canvas artwork and canvas effect banners, look no further than our Universal Matt Polyester Inkjet Canvas Rolls in 260gsm weight. Although this is a lightweight canvas, it is still strong and will not crack when stretched over a frame. We highly recommend this product for creating contemporary and photographic artwork due to its uniform weave, smooth texture and bright, high white coating which provides good colour contrast. Also helpful, this media is supplied in a longer length 30m roll, a great time saving asset which enables you to produce long print runs without frequent roll changes.
For a more authentic looking canvas but still at an affordable price, we highly recommend our Bright White Matt Cotton Inkjet Canvas Rolls in 330gsm weight. This is a medium weight media that can be stretched over a frame without cracking. Again, the uniform weave, smooth texture and high white coating provides good colour contrast for producing contemporary and photographic artwork. However, as it is cotton rich, it lends itself superbly for the reproduction of paintings with a realistic canvas feel.
For outdoor posters and banners
The combination of the pigment ink technology belonging to the HP Z6 and Z9+ printers with water resistant papers provides a winning combination for short term outdoor posters and banners. Our Water Resistant Paper in a 140gsm weight has a unique flexible, instant drying coating which is resistant to cracking, ensuring that your prints look good in any situation that involves high humidity and moisture. Even a British rain shower will not cause the ink to smudge or the paper to disintegrate.
Our 180 micron Tear Proof Matt Banner Film has a fast drying and microporous coating that is scratch resistant for sharp, vibrant colour graphics that will not cockle. Again, this polypropylene film is water resistant and compared with resin or Polyethylene coated papers will allow you to use 25% less ink. With the outstanding light difficusion that this film provides it is perfect for both outdoor and signage as well as indoor roll up banners.
Self-adhesive sticker labels and signage
For durable prints that need to last we recommend a vinyl product that can withstand handling and short term outdoor use without tearing. Our 120 micron Matt white Self Adhesive Inkjet Vinyl (270 micron with the paper release liner) is the perfect choice for creating superb, highly vibrant colour images. The self adhesive backing provides an easy and convenient method of mounting your prints onto rigid PVC board, also known as Foamex, for outdoor use and Foam Board for indoor use.
Call us now for your free samples
These are just a selection of the products we recommend for use with the HP Z6 and Z9+ printers. If this does not cover your specific requirements please call us on 01296 393700 and our knowledgeable sales team will be happy to help. Samples are available free of charge to allow you to test our products before you buy.
