A printed digital print sample cannot serve as a reference for subsequent large-run offset printing for several reasons:
1. Differences in Printing Technologies
Digital Printing: Uses toner or liquid inks applied directly to paper. This technology involves fewer preparatory steps and is typically used for small print runs or individual orders.
Offset Printing: Uses inks that are first applied to printing plates and then transferred to paper through an intermediate cylinder. Offset printing requires creating printing plates and more complex equipment setup.
2. Differences in Materials and Ink Application Methods
Types of Inks: Digital printing uses different types of inks (toners or liquid inks) compared to offset printing (pigment inks), leading to differences in color reproduction.
Application Method: Digital printing applies ink directly to the surface, while offset printing uses an intermediate carrier, which also affects the final result.
3. Differences in Color Profiles and Ranges
Color Profiles: Digital and offset printing use different color profiles (ICC profiles), leading to different interpretations of color information.
Color Range: Digital printing may have a limited color range compared to offset printing, especially when it comes to rich and vibrant colors.
4. Differences in Paper and Other Substrates
Ink Absorption: Different types of paper and substrates absorb ink differently, affecting color saturation and hue.
Types of Substrates: Digital printing often uses standard substrates, whereas offset printing can be applied to a wider range of materials.
5. Accuracy of Setup and Repeatability
Equipment Settings: Offset printing requires complex setup of printing presses for each print run, which ensures higher accuracy and repeatability. Digital printing is less precise in this regard.
Calibration: Offset presses are often calibrated for specific print runs, allowing consistent color reproduction across large volumes.
Conclusion
While digital printing is convenient and fast for producing test prints and small runs, it cannot serve as an exact reference for offset printing. To achieve the most accurate representation of the final result, it is recommended to use test prints produced on offset equipment, especially when color accuracy is critical to your project.
