Workflow Upgrade Too Expensive? You Have Options.

Many print shops are being asked to pay significant fees to upgrade workflow software or move to subscription licensing models. This is especially common with entry-level workflows such as Kodak Prinergy Evo.

If you are concerned about upgrade costs, platform support, or long-term viability, there are alternatives that allow you to keep your existing hardware while replacing the RIP or workflow layer.

This FAQ addresses common questions from shops evaluating Xitron solutions — including Navigator Workflow, K2 Workflow, and Raster Blaster — as practical replacements for Evo-based environments.

FAQ

What are my options if upgrading Prinergy Evo is too expensive?

When Evo upgrade costs include multi-version catch-up fees or mandatory maintenance, many shops choose to evaluate third‑party RIP and workflow systems instead of paying to stay current.

Xitron offers Harlequin-based RIP and workflow products that can replace Evo while continuing to use existing platesetters and prepress tools. In many cases, the cost to switch is comparable to — or lower than — upgrading multiple Evo versions, without requiring subscription licensing.

Can I keep my Kodak CTP and switch to a different workflow or RIP?

Yes. Many Kodak platesetters can be driven using Kodak‑compatible TIFF output rather than proprietary database workflows.

Xitron’s Navigator Workflow, K2 Workflow, and Raster Blaster TIFF Catcher all support output formats commonly used by Kodak CTP engines. This allows shops to replace Evo while keeping their platesetter, reducing both cost and operational disruption. Compatibility is confirmed by platesetter model and interface.

What Xitron products are typically used to replace Prinergy Evo?

The most common configurations include:

Navigator Workflow – A full RIP and workflow system built on Harlequin technology, suitable for shops that want an Evo‑like job management environment without database complexity or subscription licensing.

K2 Workflow – A comprehensive workflow designed to replace a full-blown Prinergy solution, including features like preflighting and integrated imposition.

Raster Blaster – A TIFF Catcher solution used when a shop wants to maintain an existing workflow but replace the RIP or output stage driving the CTP.

The correct choice depends on how much workflow functionality is required beyond RIP and output.

Can Xitron workflows output Kodak‑compatible TIFF files for CTP?

Yes. Kodak‑formatted TIFF output is no longer exclusive to Kodak workflows.

Xitron RIPs and workflows generate industry‑standard TIFF files AND TIFF files compatible with many Kodak platesetters, configured with the correct screening, resolution, and device parameters. This is a common approach for shops modernizing software while keeping existing CTP hardware in production.

Do I have to move to subscription licensing if I switch workflows?

No. Xitron continues to offer one-time perpetual licenses for Navigator, K2, and Raster Blaster.

This allows shops to purchase software outright and plan upgrades on their own schedule. For operations that prefer predictable long‑term costs and ownership rather than recurring subscription fees, this licensing model is often a deciding factor.

Can I replace Evo without changing my entire prepress process?

In many cases, yes.

Xitron workflows are designed to integrate into existing prepress environments and can often be configured to mirror current job flows, hot folders, and output methods. Shops frequently replace Evo in stages — starting with RIP and CTP output — while keeping familiar tools and processes in place.

What happens if I stay on an older Evo version?

Older workflow versions can continue to run, but risks increase over time. These may include operating system incompatibility, limited file format support, or difficulty integrating new hardware.

Many shops prefer a planned transition to a supported alternative rather than reacting to a forced upgrade or system failure. Evaluating Xitron options early provides more control over timing and cost.

Are there Mac‑compatible alternatives to Evo clients?

Yes. Xitron offers client tools that support modern macOS and Windows environments, depending on product and configuration.

For shops running mixed OS prepress workstations, this flexibility can remove a common constraint found in some entry‑level workflows.

How much does it cost to switch from Prinergy Evo to Xitron?

Costs vary based on required features, number of devices, and integration needs. However, many shops find that the total cost of switching to Navigator, K2, or Raster Blaster is comparable to — or lower than — Evo upgrade fees combined with maintenance or subscription costs.

A proper evaluation should consider both upfront licensing and long‑term operating expenses.

Can I keep my current imposition and prepress tools?

Often, yes.

Xitron RIPs and workflows are commonly deployed alongside existing imposition and prepress tools. Many shops choose transition paths that preserve familiar software while replacing only the RIP or workflow components that are driving upgrade costs. This approach minimizes retraining and helps maintain productivity during the changeover. However, Xitron also integrates many similar tools for imposition, preflighting, and trapping. You may find that productivity can increase substantially by changing these modules.

Is Xitron a Good Fit for You?

Xitron is a good fit when:

You want to replace Prinergy Evo without replacing your Kodak CTP or other existing output hardware.
You prefer perpetual licensing and want to avoid mandatory subscription models.
You need a Harlequin-based RIP with consistent, predictable output and active development.
Your shop wants control over upgrade timing rather than forced version catch-up fees.
You want flexibility to deploy a similar workflow (Navigator), a Full-blown Prinergy replacement (K2), or a TIFF-based output solution (Raster Blaster) based on actual production requirements.
Your prepress environment includes mixed macOS and Windows workstations.