Delving Into Digital

Cavedo says T/R Systems offers a cluster system with comparable output to the DocuTech, which includes all engines and the Micropress, for about a third of the cost. In response, Lyons says although the up-front cost of the Micropress may seem less expensive, there are some hidden costs involved.

"On paper you may crunch some numbers and say, 'O.K., they are more cost effective,' but what gets you in the end is the amount of intervention that you need with operators and other people," Lyons advises. "All of the things you think you are getting with lower cost and more machines you are burning in time."