A Brief History of Canon’s Large Format Aquous Family
In January, Canon unveiled five new Aqueous printers ranging from 24 inches to 60 inches wide. This launch not only introduces new printers to the market but also brings about some changes to Canon’s existing large-format Aqueous portfolio. To fully understand the significance of these new printers, let’s take a step back and examine the family tree. In 2016, Canon introduced its PRO Line of printers, including the PRO-2000 24″, PRO-4000 44″, and PRO-6000 60″ models, all of which boasted 12 ink systems. These printers were specifically designed to deliver exceptional image quality for photographers and fine artists who demanded the best out of their giclée printers. Simultaneously, Canon also introduced the PRO platform in 44-inch and 60-inch sizes, with the PRO-4000S and PRO-6000S focusing on print speed and productivity for the graphic and poster space. Fast forward to 2019, and the PRO and PRO S Series evolved into the Canon PRO-2100, 4100, and 6100 12-color models, as well as the PRO-4100S and PRO-6100S 8-color models. These new models brought significant improvements such as automatic paper loading and a larger touchscreen panel, while the inks and print head remained the same. Thus, the PRO series experienced its latest evolution in 2019. However, Canon’s innovation did not stop there. In 2021, Canon introduced a new line of printers known as the GP series, featuring the 10-color GP-2000 24″, GP-4000 44″, and the 5-color GP-200 24″, GP-300 44″. These printers all incorporate Canon’s new radiant infusion technology, utilizing Fluorescent Pink ink to create high-impact graphic posters, wall art, and custom pop art with vivid neon colors. Now that we have covered the history, let’s delve into the details of the new Canon PRO and GP series printers.
The Unchanged Lineup
Despite the introduction of new printers, Canon will continue to offer the five-color GP-200 and GP-300 models. These 24-inch and 36-inch printers feature a more compact design, allowing them to fit easily into classrooms or offices without occupying excessive space. These entry-level printers utilize CMYK inks, along with Fluorescent Pink ink for attention-grabbing graphics. It is important to note that these printers have smaller ink cartridge sizes (maximum 300 ml) compared to the other printers on this list (up to 700 ml). The GP-200 and GP-300 printers are best suited for customers who want to produce eye-catching posters within a limited footprint without requiring the full gamut and productivity of other Canon printers. Another part of Canon’s unchanged lineup is the GP-2000 and GP-4000, both of which are 10-color printers. The GP 2000 24″ and GP-4000 44″ will continue to utilize the fluorescent pink ink, alongside orange, green, and violet inks, allowing for an impressive 99% coverage of Pantone colors and 97% coverage of Pantone pastels and neon shades. These 10-color printers offer the largest gamut among all the printers on this list and in Canon’s history. They are ideal for industries such as retail, print-for-pay, entertainment, design offices, and advertising agencies. The GP-2000 and GP-4000 printers provide color enthusiasts with all the tools they need to achieve vibrant and visually striking prints.
Introducing the New 12-Ink Printers
Replacing the previous generation of 12-ink printers, Canon now offers the brand-new PRO-2600 24″, PRO-4600 44″, and PRO-6600 60″ models. These new printers come with various enhancements, including a reformulated ink set that improves density, archivability, and scratch resistance. The 12-ink Canon PRO Series printers are specifically designed for photographers and fine artists who demand the utmost detail neutrality and gradations. These printers are the only ones in Canon’s large format lineup to feature chroma optimizer, ensuring a clear and consistent coating across the paper’s surface and reducing bronzing. For those seeking the highest quality printing results, Canon’s PRO Series printers are the go-to choice.
The Big Change: The New 7-Color Platform
The most significant change in Canon’s PRO and GP family lineup lies in the discontinuation of the 8-color S version of the PRO Series printers. To cater to customers who prioritize productivity, Canon introduces the brand-new 7-color platform, represented by the GP-4600S and GP-6600S. These printers share the same body as the PRO Series but no longer bear the PRO badge. The new GP S 7-ink printers feature CMYK, gray, and orange inks. The addition of the orange ink widens the color gamut, resulting in more vivid colors for posters and graphics. Canon has also implemented a scratch-resistant wax component, similar to the one found in the PRO Series, to enhance durability against abrasion and handling. The GP S Series utilizes the same print head as the PRO and GP Series, but its mirrored layout is designed to layer inks identically in bidirectional printing. This innovative approach ensures better control and consistency during high-speed printing. For customers looking to produce eye-catching graphics and posters at production speeds, the new GP S Series represents the most attractive option in Canon’s PRO and GP family.
The Canon PRO and GP Lineup: A Printer for Everyone
With the introduction of these new printers and the continued advancements from Canon, there is undoubtedly a printer to meet the needs of individuals in the photo-proofing and graphics world. Whether you are a photographer, fine artist, retailer, print-for-pay service, or advertising agency, Canon’s PRO and GP series offer a diverse range of options to suit your specific requirements. If you need personalized assistance or have further questions, please visit itsupplies.com or give us a call. Our team of experts is ready to guide you through the printers in more detail, helping you make an informed decision. Thank you for taking the time to watch our video and read our blog. We post new videos every week, covering a wide range of topics related to printing technology. Stay tuned for more exciting content from us!
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