Has anyone used the combo sublimation and chromablast ink system which is available on bestblanks.com? This saves money having a single printer and if it isn't troublesome it would make sense. Also it says their bags are vacuum sealed which reduces problems and that makes sense. But, are these significantly more expensive? Thanks
I have not used....nor would I use...a combo unit...if something goes wrong with the unit you are out two systems...rather than one. I am not a real fan of chromablast but some have liked it. Just remember that with either system, the inks are expensive. I guess the ink system of the dual units are better than the 'bag' bulk systems, but so far mine have worked well..I guess it is a matter of choice
A hybrid system has its benefits and disadvantages. You spend less on the number of printers you buy (1 vs 2), the number of inks you buy (8 vs 16) and possibly one bulk system to two (if you go with the R1800 version). However, you do have all your eggs in one basket as Charles mentioned above. But some people can't afford to get two separate printers. So, it is really going to depend on your business model and whether you can sell both decorating techinques to your target market.
The real key with a hybrid system is going to see the product in person before you buy it. Whether this is at a the distributor's locaiton, a trade show or in a shop close to yours. Worse case scenario, get a couple of samples of your graphics printed off of it so you can make sure that the colors are going to work for your designs. Not all the software is created equal. Some limit what inks you can use and others provide you more power. Some will give you better colors than others depending on what type of graphic and substrate you are printing on.
The determination between a system that runs off of bags and cartridges can play a role in . Don't be fooled, both systems have the ink in a closed system that minimizes the amount of air that can get into the system. The R1800 bag system will have more of a chance just because of the way you connect and disconnect the bags. Ultimately, running ink in a closed ink system will minimize your maintenance compared to running an open (bulk bottles) system...for any type of digital printing.
Feel free to ask any questions you have about hybrid printers.
It sounds to me like two printers would be the best best if I can get the money... I thought that might be the recommendation, plus it reduces chances of errors and reduces cleaning with two ink systems connected.
Does anyone know how much ink you receive in a cartridge versus the amount in a bag? They don't allow you to easily compare.
Combo sublimation and chromablast 
