Fading Colors, Slow Output, High Costs? Why the Epson SureColor S7170 Is the Answer for Wide-Format Professionals

If you’ve been in the wide-format printing business for any length of time, you already know the common frustrations:

• Prints that lose their vibrancy too quickly
  

• Slow production speeds that bottleneck your workflow
  

• Ink and media costs that eat into your margins
  

These challenges are more than minor inconveniences—they directly affect your ability to stay competitive, deliver on client expectations, and maximize profitability.

 

That’s exactly why Epson designed the SureColor S7170, a 64-inch solvent printer engineered for professionals who need stunning image quality, speed, and lower total cost of ownership. This isn’t just another printer—it’s a tool built to solve real-world problems for sign shops, print providers, and creative professionals producing everything from banners to fine art reproductions.

In this article, we’ll break down:

• The key pain points faced by wide-format professionals
  

• How the Epson SureColor S7170 addresses each of these issues
  

• A side-by-side comparison with competing printers
  

• Recommended inks and media to get the best results
  

• Real-world case studies from businesses that have made the switch
  

• FAQs to help you decide if the S7170 is right for you
  

By the end, you’ll see why the Epson SureColor S7170 is more than just a printer—it’s an investment in efficiency, quality, and growth for your print business.

 

The Common Problems in Wide-Format Printing

Wide-format printing is a competitive space, and every minute (and dollar) counts. Yet many print professionals face the same recurring issues that hold back productivity and profitability. Let’s look at the three biggest challenges:

1. Fading Colors and Inconsistent Image Quality

Nothing hurts a print provider’s reputation faster than colors that fade prematurely or images that don’t match the client’s expectations. Traditional solvent printers can struggle with:

• Limited color gamuts, making it difficult to reproduce vibrant reds, blues, and skin tones.
  

• Prints that fade quickly under UV light or outdoor conditions.
  

• Inconsistent quality across large runs, requiring reprints and wasted materials.
  

The result? Frustrated customers, wasted ink and media, and a dent in your bottom line.

2. Slow Output and Bottlenecked Production

Many wide-format professionals have experienced this: you land a big job—maybe a large banner order or a rush signage project—but your printer just can’t keep up. Common slowdowns include:

• Long warm-up times before printing even begins
  

• Slower throughput on high-quality modes
  

• Frequent stops for cleaning cycles or media changes
  

• Inefficient roll handling when switching jobs
  

This leads to missed deadlines, overtime labor costs, and the inability to take on additional projects.

3. High Operating Costs

Ink and media costs are often underestimated when purchasing a new printer. Older solvent models may use more ink per square foot, and their maintenance requirements add up quickly. Pain points here include:

• Excessive ink consumption due to inefficient delivery systems
  

• Higher costs for replacement parts and consumables
  

• Frequent downtime leading to lost billable hours
  

• Media compatibility issues that restrict job flexibility
  

Together, these issues can make wide-format printing less profitable than it should be.

How the Epson SureColor S7170 Solves These Pain Points

The Epson SureColor S7170 is designed with one goal: help wide-format professionals deliver exceptional prints faster, with lower costs, and greater consistency. Let’s break down how it directly addresses the most common problems.

1. Tackling Fading Colors with PrecisionCore® and UltraChrome® GS3 Inks

Where many printers struggle with vibrancy and durability, the S7170 excels.

• UltraChrome GS3 Solvent Inks – Deliver a wide color gamut with deep blacks, rich reds, and vibrant tones that hold up outdoors for up to 3 years without lamination.
  

  

  
  

• PrecisionCore® Printhead Technology – Produces ultra-sharp details, even in small text and fine graphics.
  
  

  

  
  

• Consistent Color Reproduction – Built-in color management ensures that what you see on the screen is what comes out on paper or vinyl.
  
  

  

  
  
  

✅ Result: Prints that stand the test of time, reduce costly reprints, and keep clients coming back.

 

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2. Speed Without Sacrificing Quality

Production bottlenecks? The S7170 was built for throughput.

• High-Speed Production Modes – Capable of printing up to 550 sq. ft. per hour (in banner mode), perfect for high-volume jobs.
  

• Dual-Channel Printing – Maximizes ink efficiency and throughput.
  

• Efficient Media Handling – Supports roll media up to 64 inches wide, with fast switching and automated tension control for smooth operation.
  
  

✅ Result: Faster delivery times, increased capacity, and the ability to take on more clients.

 

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3. Cutting Down Operating Costs

Running costs can make or break profitability. Epson designed the S7170 to keep TCO (total cost of ownership) as low as possible.

• High-Capacity Ink Packs – Reduce changeovers and cost per print.
  

• Less Maintenance, More Uptime – Automatic printhead cleaning and nozzle verification minimize downtime.
  

• Broad Media Compatibility – Works with banners, vinyl, canvas, and specialty media, so you can expand your offerings without investing in multiple machines.
  
  

✅ Result: A printer that drives more revenue while keeping costs under control.

 

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📊 Quick Comparison: Before vs. After Epson S7170

 

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Epson SureColor S7170 vs. The Competition

Wide-format professionals often compare the S7170 against other solvent printers in its class, particularly models from Roland, HP, and Mimaki. Below, we’ll highlight key differentiators so you can see why the S7170 is positioned as the smarter long-term investment.

 

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1. Epson SureColor S7170 vs. Roland VersaCAMM & TrueVIS Printers

Roland has long been a go-to in the wide-format market. Their TrueVIS series is known for its eco-solvent inks and versatility. However, Epson pushes ahead in several critical areas:

• Color Gamut: Epson’s UltraChrome GS3 inks provide a richer color range with stronger reds and blacks compared to Roland’s eco-solvent inks.
  

• Print Speed: Epson leads in high-production banner and poster modes, while Roland often lags in throughput.
  

• Cost Efficiency: Roland cartridges are smaller, meaning more frequent changes and higher long-term ink costs compared to Epson’s larger-capacity packs.
  
  

✅ Verdict: Roland offers solid quality, but Epson wins in speed and ink efficiency for high-volume production.

 

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2. Epson SureColor S7170 vs. HP Latex 300/500 Series

HP Latex printers are popular for their water-based latex inks and eco-friendly branding. While they excel in certain indoor applications, there are trade-offs for professionals:

• Outdoor Durability: HP Latex prints often require lamination for full outdoor use, while Epson GS3 inks last up to 3 years outdoors unlaminated.
  

• Print Quality: Epson’s PrecisionCore head produces finer detail and smoother gradients, especially important for high-resolution graphics.
  

• Operating Costs: HP Latex systems consume more energy (heaters required) and often higher ink usage per square foot.
  
  

✅ Verdict: HP shines in odor-free indoor environments, but Epson outperforms in durability, cost efficiency, and detail.

 

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3. Epson SureColor S7170 vs. Mimaki JV300 Plus Series

Mimaki’s JV300 printers are another popular solvent-based competitor. Known for their strong print quality, they still trail Epson in key performance areas:

• Ease of Use: Epson’s automated maintenance system reduces downtime, whereas Mimaki requires more manual upkeep.
  

• Consistency: Epson’s color management is more streamlined, reducing waste from reprints.
  

• Throughput: Mimaki speeds are competitive, but Epson balances speed with reliability and reduced user intervention.
  
  

✅ Verdict: Mimaki offers solid output, but Epson’s ease of use and reduced downtime give it the upper hand in production-heavy environments.

 

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📊 Comparison Snapshot: Epson S7170 vs. Competitors

 

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The Epson SureColor S7170 vs. Competing Wide-Format Printers

When evaluating wide-format printers, professionals often compare not only output quality but also production speed, ink efficiency, and running costs. The Epson SureColor S7170 consistently outperforms competitors in these categories, thanks to its combination of PrecisionCore® TFP printhead technology and Epson UltraChrome® GS3 solvent inks.

Below is a comparison table highlighting the Epson SureColor S7170 against other leading 64-inch solvent printers:

 

Key Takeaways from the Comparison:

• The Epson SureColor S7170 offers industry-leading print speeds without sacrificing color accuracy.
  

• Epson’s UltraChrome GS3 solvent inks ensure more vibrant, durable prints with lower ink consumption.
  

• Competitors like Roland and Mimaki offer versatility but often at higher long-term costs due to ink waste and maintenance.
  

• HP Latex printers are popular for indoor applications but consume more energy and require more frequent head purging, which increases downtime.
  

👉 For professionals managing high-output print shops, the Epson SureColor S7170 strikes the best balance of speed, reliability, and cost-efficiency.

Case Studies: Real-World Success with the Epson SureColor S7170

Sometimes the best way to see the impact of a wide-format printer isn’t through numbers—it’s through real-world stories. The Epson SureColor S7170 has become a go-to solution for print shops, sign makers, and wide-format professionals who were struggling with fading colors, slow production speeds, and rising costs before switching.

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Case Study 1: A Sign Shop Eliminates Downtime and Ink Waste

Challenge:
A busy sign shop in Miami was running multiple solvent printers from different brands. Their biggest frustrations were clogged printheads, frequent nozzle checks, and wasted ink during cleaning cycles. Every week, they were losing hours of productive time.

Solution:
After upgrading to the Epson SureColor S7170, the shop benefited from the printer’s automated cleaning system and PrecisionCore® printheads, which dramatically reduced downtime.

Result:

• 25% increase in uptime
  

• Reduced ink waste by nearly 30%
  

• Ability to meet tight deadlines without last-minute outsourcing
  

 

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Case Study 2: Vehicle Wrap Company Boosts Print Speeds by 40%

Challenge:
A vehicle wrap company in Texas needed vibrant, durable colors that could withstand outdoor elements. Their existing printer produced good quality but was too slow to keep up with demand.

Solution:
They invested in the Epson SureColor S7170, which delivered high-quality wraps at speeds up to 1,140 sqft/hr without banding issues. The UltraChrome® GS3 inks also provided superior color accuracy and outdoor durability.

Result:

• 40% faster production time on wrap jobs
  

• Longer-lasting colors, reducing customer reprints
  

• Expanded capacity to take on new contracts
  

 

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Case Study 3: A Print House Cuts Operating Costs by 20%

Challenge:
A wide-format print house in California serving retail and event clients was dealing with high ink and maintenance costs. They needed a solution that balanced speed, quality, and efficiency.

Solution:
Switching to the Epson SureColor S7170 allowed them to take advantage of Epson’s 700ml high-capacity cartridges and efficient ink usage.

Result:

• Operating costs reduced by 20% annually
  

• Increased profit margins without raising client pricing
  

• Improved reliability for large retail signage orders
  

 

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Conclusion from Case Studies:
Across industries—whether signage, wraps, or retail graphics—the Epson SureColor S7170 consistently reduces costs, speeds up production, and improves color output. These real-world examples highlight why the S7170 has become a trusted choice for print professionals who demand both efficiency and excellence.

 

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FAQs: Answering Wide-Format Professionals’ Top Questions

When considering a major investment like the Epson SureColor S7170, print professionals naturally have questions. Here are the most common ones, answered to help you make an informed decision.

Q1: What types of media can the S7170 handle?
A: The S7170 is extremely versatile. It can print on:

• Vinyl and self-adhesive films
  

• Banner materials (up to 64 inches wide)
  

• Canvas and coated papers
  

• Backlit film for displays
  

• Specialty media like textiles and photo-grade substrates
  
  

Tip: For best results, pair the printer with high-quality media from Image Pro International to ensure consistent color reproduction and durability.

 

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Q2: How durable are the prints for outdoor use?
A: Thanks to Epson UltraChrome GS3 solvent inks, the S7170 delivers prints that last up to 3 years outdoors without lamination. For longer-term outdoor applications, lamination can extend longevity to 5+ years.

 

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Q3: What are the ink options and SKUs?
A: Epson designed high-capacity ink packs to reduce cost per print and minimize downtime:

 

These large-volume cartridges mean fewer changes and lower overall ink costs.

 

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Q4: How does the S7170 compare to other wide-format printers in maintenance?
A: Maintenance is simple and mostly automated:

• Automated printhead cleaning
  

• Built-in nozzle verification and recovery
  

• Minimal downtime compared to Roland, Mimaki, or HP Latex systems
  

 

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Q5: What production speeds can I expect?
A: Depending on the media and print mode:

• Banner mode: Up to 1,140 sq. ft./hr
  

• Fine-quality mode: Slightly slower but delivers highly detailed, vibrant prints
   This combination ensures you can meet tight deadlines without sacrificing quality.
  

 

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Q6: Can the S7170 handle large print runs efficiently?
A: Yes. With roll media support up to 64 inches wide, high-speed printing, and automated maintenance, it is designed for high-volume professional environments.

 

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Recommended Media & Accessories for the Epson SureColor S7170

To get the best performance and longest-lasting results from your Epson SureColor S7170, choosing the right media and accessories is just as important as the printer itself. Epson’s GS3 solvent inks pair perfectly with a wide variety of substrates, and Image Pro International offers a curated selection optimized for professional use.

 

 

1. Banner Materials

Perfect for large-format signage, trade show displays, and outdoor advertising:

• ArtDeco 15 Mil Smooth Scrim Water Resistant Matte Banner – Durable and ideal for high-resolution graphics.
  

• ArtDeco 16.5 Mil Duplex Printable Scrim Water Resistant Matte Banner – Double-sided printable, perfect for hanging banners.
  

These banner materials hold up well under GS3 inks and provide vivid colors with minimal curling or distortion.

 

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2. Vinyl & Self-Adhesive Media

For vehicle wraps, wall graphics, and promotional decals:

• ArtDeco 6.5 Mil Removable PSA Water Resistant Gloss Vinyl – Great for temporary signage or promotional campaigns.
  

• ArtDeco 6.5 Mil Permanent PSA Water Resistant Matte Vinyl – Ideal for long-term installations that require durability and fade resistance.
  

 

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3. Specialty Media & Films

For backlit displays, fine art, and textile applications:

• ArtDeco 22 Mil PolyCotton Blend Bright White Water Resistant Gloss Canvas – Excellent for gallery-quality reproductions.
  

• ArtDeco Cold Pressed Bright White Matte Watercolor Paper – Perfect for reproducing watercolor artwork or textured prints.
  

• ArtDeco Waterproof Inkjet Film – Ideal for screen printing and overlay applications.
  

 

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4. Accessories & Tools

Optimizing your workflow requires a few key accessories:

• Media Roll Stands – Ensure smooth roll feeding and tension control for uninterrupted printing.
  

• Take-Up Reels – Collect large-format prints efficiently to reduce handling damage.
  

• Color Management Tools – Spectrophotometers and calibration devices help maintain consistent, accurate colors across every job.
  

 

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💡 Pro Tip: Pairing the Epson S7170 with high-quality media from Image Pro International ensures that the full potential of UltraChrome GS3 inks is realized, delivering vibrant colors, superior durability, and reduced waste.

 

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Cost of Ownership & ROI: Epson SureColor S7170 vs. Competitors

When evaluating a wide-format printer, initial purchase price is only part of the story. The true cost of ownership includes ink expenses, maintenance, media efficiency, and downtime. The Epson SureColor S7170 is designed to provide long-term savings, making it a smart investment for professional print shops.

 

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Ink Costs & Efficiency

Epson’s UltraChrome GS3 inks are offered in 700ml high-capacity packs, significantly reducing the frequency of cartridge changes. Compared to competitors:

 

Key takeaway: The S7170 reduces both direct ink costs and downtime due to cartridge swaps, resulting in a more predictable operating budget.

 

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Maintenance Costs

Epson’s automated printhead cleaning and recovery system minimizes manual intervention. This reduces technician hours and prevents costly mistakes like clogged nozzles. Competitors, in contrast, often require frequent manual maintenance, which can increase downtime and labor costs.

 

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Media Compatibility & Waste Reduction

Using high-quality media from Image Pro International ensures less reprinting due to errors, reducing material costs over time. Epson’s GS3 inks are optimized for these substrates, so prints maintain vibrancy and adhesion, even for long outdoor exposures.

 

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ROI Comparison

When factoring in ink efficiency, reduced maintenance, and media optimization, the Epson S7170 provides one of the fastest return on investment (ROI) among solvent wide-format printers. Print shops report 20–30% savings on consumables and labor costs within the first year of operation.

 

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💡 Pro Tip: Pairing the Epson S7170 with recommended media like ArtDeco Banners, Vinyls, and Canvas from Image Pro International maximizes both print quality and long-term cost savings.

Final Verdict & Recommendation: Why the Epson SureColor S7170 Stands Out

After examining print quality, speed, durability, maintenance, and overall cost of ownership, the Epson SureColor S7170 clearly emerges as a top choice for wide-format professionals. It addresses the common pain points in the industry—fading colors, slow output, and high operational costs—with innovative technology and optimized workflows.

 

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Why the S7170 Excels

1. Outstanding Print Quality
   

• PrecisionCore® TFP printheads deliver sharp lines and rich colors.
  

• UltraChrome GS3 solvent inks produce vibrant, durable prints suitable for indoor and outdoor applications.
  
  

2. High-Speed, High-Volume Production
   

• Capable of up to 1,140 sqft/hr, it significantly outpaces many competitors without sacrificing image quality.
  

• Dual-roll support allows continuous printing, reducing downtime for media swaps.
  
  

3. Cost-Efficient Operation
   

• Large-capacity 700ml ink packs minimize cartridge changes.
  

• Automated maintenance reduces labor costs and increases uptime.
  

• Compatible with a wide range of high-quality media from Image Pro International, ensuring minimal waste.
  
  

4. Versatility Across Applications
   

• Ideal for signage, vehicle wraps, banners, backlit displays, and specialty media.
  

• Works seamlessly with vinyl, canvas, banner materials, and even textile substrates.
  

 

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Competitor Comparison Summary

 

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Recommendation

For wide-format professionals who want to boost productivity, reduce operational costs, and achieve superior print quality, the Epson SureColor S7170 is the clear winner. Whether you run a busy sign shop, produce vehicle wraps, or print retail graphics, this printer delivers reliability, efficiency, and excellence.

 

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Upgrade your print workflow today with the Epson SureColor S7170 and discover why wide-format professionals trust Epson for vivid, durable, and cost-efficient printing. Browse the printer, ink, and media options at Image Pro International—your go-to source for all your printing needs.

 

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