color management:  instruments:  reflection/spectro densitometers:  X-Rite 500 Series, Which One is Right for You?

• X-Rite 500 Series - Which One is Right for You?
• Frank Burgos has been involved in the flexographic printing industry since 1980, as a press operator, supervisor, operations manager, consultant and business owner. Here’s what he has to say about the differences between the X-Rite 500 Series instruments:
• X-Rite 504
• Use the 504 to measure density of CMYK colors. This is an entry level device, and does not measure dot area or dot gain. If you’re happy controlling just density, this is for you. 3-year warranty
   
• X-Rite 508
• The 508 measures the density of the CMYK colors, like the 504, but it also measures dot area and dot gain. This is the minimum for folks who want to apply curves to output films/plates. 3-year warranty
   
• X-Rite 518
• The 518 measures density, dot area, and dot gain, like the 508. However, press operators can also monitor trap and contrast and make needed adjustments during press runs. More applicable to the offset folks. 3-year warranty
   
• X-Rite 528
• The 528 starts to kick things up a serious notch. It measures custom colors, like customer logos and spot colors. It includes a digital version of the Pantone library of colors, built in, which means the Pantone colors never drift or fade, unlike the familiar color charts and chips. It also allows you to compare and match colors between color sample or ink drawdown and the printed product. The 504, 508, and 518 cannot do this. This is the minimum device I recommend for a flexo pressroom. 3-year warranty
   
• X-Rite 530
• The 530 is the Gorilla of color measurement, in my book. This device does everything the 528 does, but it also allows you to connect to a computer and interface with color quality control software, such as QA Master. This is what I use, and what I recommend for anyone in any pressroom, big or small. The combination of a 530 and QA software is for the folks who are serious about color matching and monitoring. Your customer will appreciate the accuracy and consistency of color. If you’re not going to use the software, however, stick with the 528. 3-year warranty

If you need additional assistance determining which model is best suited to your needs, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’ll be happy to recommend an appropriate solution. Call Toll-Free: 1-866-416-1484 or, outside the US & Canada: 1-336-812-3784

© Frank Burgos, 2006-2007; All Rights Reserved