The machine, a replacement for the Stylus Pro 5000 that itself was the first viable desktop machine for professional proofing, was unveiled last October and set to ship this month.

According to Epson, demand has been extremely strong worldwide, with the main interest being for proofing and photographic applications. In the UK there is already a substantial waiting list.

The delay is unfortunate, but its due to sheer demand in Asia, said Epson graphic arts product manager Martin Johns. We knew it was going to be successful, though not this successful.

Epson is adding additional manufacturing capacity to meet the demand for the 4000. You always get a surge in demand when a product first ships but this is different, said Johns.

The 4000 is expected to be particularly popular as part of a proofing package alongside B3 platesetters, several of which will be launched at Drupa. Johns said the 4000 would be the star of the show for Epson.

Epsons claim of high demand for the product was confirmed by resellers. Compose System took several orders for the machine at Digital Print World, and other print firms also contacted PrintWeek to say they were having problems getting their hands on the machine.

Johns said that he didnt believe the delays would cause customers to switch to other manufacturers. Its unique. Theres nothing apart from the bigger Epsons like it, he said.

Story by Barney Cox