EPSON SureColor S9170 vs S80600: Solvent Printer Speed Test & Upgrade Comparison

Is the Epson SureColor S9170 the Next Must-Have Solvent Printer?

The Epson SureColor S80600 has long been a favorite in the wide-format printing industry. Known for its reliable color accuracy and high-quality output, it’s served countless print shops since its debut nearly a decade ago. But with the launch of the Epson SureColor S9170, there’s a new contender on the scene—and print professionals are wondering: Is it finally time to upgrade?

Real-World Solvent Speed Test: S9170 vs S80600

While printer specs often boast high speed and efficiency, real-world performance is what truly matters. That’s why we ran a direct comparison between the S80600 and the new S9170 using the same challenging media: gloss adhesive vinyl. This material is notorious for revealing issues like banding, making it the perfect benchmark for quality-at-speed.

The test file measured 52" x 70" (over 25 square feet) and was printed in three different pass modes per printer. This allowed us to assess how well each printer balanced speed with sellable quality.

Shocking Results: S9170 is 2.5x Faster in Production Mode

The results weren’t even close. The Epson S9170's 4-pass mode matched the S80600’s 8-pass output in quality—yet delivered it at a staggering 376 sq ft/hr vs. 143 sq ft/hr. That’s a 2.5x performance increase without sacrificing image quality.

This leap forward is driven by Epson’s upgraded technology, including:

• A new 2.6-inch PrecisionCore printhead
• Enhanced media feed system
• Refined ink drop control algorithms

The result is high-speed output with virtually no banding—something that was simply not possible with the older S80 generation.

Blind Quality Test: Professionals Couldn’t Tell the Difference

To validate the results, we conducted a blind test with in-house print professionals and color techs. They evaluated output from both printers—without knowing which machine produced which file. The verdict? A nearly even 50/50 split. The S9170's 4-pass prints were visually indistinguishable from the S80600's 8-pass output, proving you can have speed without compromise.

Side-by-Side Time Comparison

In a real-time print test, the S9170 completed the 52" x 70" job in just 5 minutes and 5 seconds. The S80600 took 11 minutes and 50 seconds in its comparable mode. This isn’t a small efficiency bump—it’s a major productivity boost.

Key Features of the Epson SureColor S9170

• 2.6” PrecisionCore print head for higher ink density
• Production speeds up to 376 sq ft/hr
• Advanced feed system for accurate media handling
• Improved ink drop control for smoother gradients
• Excellent performance on adhesive vinyl, banners, and vehicle wraps

Why the S9170 Is a Smart Upgrade for Print Shops

If your business relies on fast turnaround times or you’re scaling up production, the S9170 offers more than just speed. With a price around $26,000, it delivers premium-level performance at a cost far below comparable high-output solvent printers. It’s designed to keep your workflow moving while maintaining the color and image quality Epson is known for.

Final Verdict: Should You Upgrade from the S80600?

Based on our test results, the answer is a clear yes. The Epson SureColor S9170 isn’t just faster—it’s significantly more efficient without giving up the quality standards the S80600 established. If your S80 is starting to show its age or your workload is increasing, the S9170 is worth serious consideration.

See It for Yourself

Want to test it yourself? Contact us at IT Supplies to schedule a live demo or send in your test files. We’ll print them on the S9170 and return the output for your review—so you can see the speed and quality difference firsthand.

Watch the Full Video

Check out our full YouTube video for a side-by-side print test and real-time results: Epson SureColor S9170 vs S80600 – Solvent Speed Test

FAQs

What makes the Epson S9170 faster than the S80600?

The S9170 uses a larger printhead and advanced ink control, allowing for higher ink density with fewer passes—dramatically improving speed.

Is image quality still high at faster speeds?

Yes. In blind tests, experts could not distinguish the S9170's 4-pass output from the S80's slower 8-pass prints.

Can the S9170 handle vehicle wraps and banners?

Absolutely. It’s optimized for a wide range of wide-format applications, including wraps, banners, vinyl graphics, and wallpaper.

Is it worth upgrading from the S80600?

If speed, efficiency, and future scalability matter to your shop, the S9170 is a highly worthwhile upgrade.

How can I try it before buying?

Reach out to us at itsupplies.com to book a demo or send us your test files for a sample print.

IT Supplies is your one-stop source for wide-format printers, supplies, and support. We carry top brands including EPSON, HP, and Canon. Explore our full lineup of solvent, latex, dye-sublimation, DTF, and DTG printers at www.itsupplies.com or call 1-800-771-9665.

What You Can Print with an Eco-Solvent Printer (Besides Banners)

Eco-solvent printers are known for their durability, speed, and vibrant color output. Most businesses rely on them for producing banners—but banners are just the beginning. With the right media and setup, your eco-solvent printer can become a versatile production tool that supports a wide range of profitable print applications.

Why Choose Eco-Solvent Printing?

Eco-solvent printing combines exceptional print quality with long-term outdoor durability, making it ideal for many industries. Here are three reasons to invest more into this technology:

Durability for Outdoor and Commercial Use

Solvent inks chemically bond with the media, providing excellent resistance to UV exposure, scratches, and chemicals. This makes them ideal for outdoor signage, vehicle wraps, floor graphics, and window displays.

Fast Production with High Margins

Epson’s S-Series eco-solvent printers are optimized for high-speed printing. With fast drying times and efficient ink usage, shops can turn around jobs quickly and increase profit margins.

True Versatility

With a simple media change, your printer can shift from banners to dozens of other applications—no new printer required.

What Can You Print Besides Banners?

Here are just a few of the high-demand applications you can offer using your existing eco-solvent printer:

• Window Graphics
• Wall Murals
• Floor Graphics
• Fine Art & Canvas Prints
• Stickers & Decals
• Vehicle Wraps
• Custom Wallpaper

These products are highly profitable and allow your business to offer full-service print solutions for both retail and commercial clients.

Benefits of Solvent Ink Technology

Eco-solvent ink penetrates the media surface and bonds chemically, offering key benefits:

• Fade-resistant and waterproof output
• Compatibility with a wide range of materials
• Deep blacks and rich, vibrant color
• GREENGUARD Gold Certification (safe for schools, healthcare settings, and indoor environments)

With the Epson SureColor S9170, you can reproduce over 99% of the Pantone Color Library, making it ideal for brand-critical applications and high-end decor printing.

Add Cutting to Expand Capabilities

For products like decals and floor graphics, finishing is key. The Epson S-Series can be paired with the Graphtec FC9000 cutter for:

• Contour cutting
• Kiss cutting
• Perf cutting

This setup streamlines production and expands your workflow without needing additional print equipment.

Maximize ROI with a Single Printer

Solvent printers—when paired with the right media and accessories—give you the ability to diversify your product offerings, improve efficiency, and maximize your return on investment. Instead of limiting your business to signs and banners, you can offer everything from vehicle wraps to premium fine art prints.

Partner with IT Supplies for Support and Solutions

At IT Supplies, we help businesses unlock the full potential of their print technology. From equipment to workflow consulting, we’re here to support every step of your growth.

We offer:

• Expert guidance on printer selection
• A full portfolio of media—vinyl, canvas, wallcoverings, and more
• Cutters and finishing equipment
• Technical support and training

Ready to Grow?

Schedule a demo—virtual or in-person—and see what’s possible with the Epson S-Series and eco-solvent printing. Give us a call at 1-800-771-9665 to speak with a print specialist.

How to Use ICC Profiles for Printers: Complete Guide to Color Accuracy

Hey there, creators and color enthusiasts!

If you’re aiming for the best possible color output from your printer, understanding and using ICC profiles is key. In this blog, we’ll dive into how to find ICC profiles for your printer across all major operating systems—Windows, macOS, and Linux. Let’s get started!

What Are ICC Profiles?

ICC profiles, or International Color Consortium profiles, are files that ensure consistent color representation across devices such as monitors, printers, and cameras. If your colors are off, an ICC profile can be your best friend. They play a crucial role in achieving color accuracy, which is vital for photographers, designers, and anyone who values precise color reproduction. Whether you’re printing fine art, photography, or marketing materials, ICC profiles help ensure what you see on screen matches what comes out of your printer.

Where to Find ICC Profiles on Your Computer

For Windows:

Location: C:\Windows\System32\spool\drivers\color

For macOS:

Location: Macintosh HD/Library/ColorSync/Profiles

When you install the complete driver sets for your printer, the profiles should be included in these directories. If you’re still struggling to find the profiles you need, don’t worry—we’ll explore online resources shortly!

Finding ICC Profiles for Epson Aqueous Printers

Epson provides a handy tool called the Epson Media Installer. This program allows you to download and update many of Epson’s media profiles. Here’s how to use it:

1. Open the Epson Media Installer.
2. You will immediately see all the media available for your printer.
3. Click on ‘Media Download’ to download the necessary media setups and profiles.

To install third-party media like Hahnemühle or Moab, use the Media Management tools to duplicate a similar Epson media and adjust as needed.

Finding ICC Profiles for Canon Printers

Use the Canon Media Configuration Tool for PRO and GP models:

1. Open or download the Canon Media Configuration Tool.
2. View the available media profiles in the application.
3. Import AM1 files or create new custom media profiles for third-party papers.

Using a custom media setup ensures accurate ink application and prevents issues like oversaturation.

Finding ICC Profiles for HP Printers

HP’s Print OS Media Locator makes this simple:

1. Access the Media Locator from your printer or a computer.
2. Filter by your printer model.
3. Download and upload the profiles via the printer's IP address interface.

Don’t forget to sync these settings with your RIP for optimal results.

Using Epson Edge Dashboard

Epson Edge Dashboard allows profile downloads and printer updates:

1. Log in to the Epson Edge Dashboard.
2. Click on the cloud icon to locate your media.
3. Filter for the type of media you need and download it.
4. Drag that media onto your printer settings from left to right.

The Importance of Custom ICC Profiles

While manufacturer profiles are helpful, creating custom ICC profiles tailored to your environment and media can take your color accuracy to the next level. This is especially useful for photographers and print professionals seeking precise and consistent color.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing where to find and how to manage ICC profiles is essential, whether you’re a photographer, print operator, or just someone who loves accurate color. If you found this guide helpful, check out our videos, leave a comment, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Still have questions? Call 1-800-771-9665 to talk with a color specialist or visit www.itsupplies.com for more help dialing in your color workflow.

Thanks for reading—and happy printing!

Understanding Epson Printer Model Numbers and Letter Codes

If you're trying to decipher Epson printer model numbers, you're not alone. It can be confusing, especially with all the prefixes and suffixes. At IT Supplies, we help customers navigate this complexity by breaking down what each part of the model name actually means. Whether you're printing photographs, technical graphics, signage, fabric, or anything in between—this guide will help you make sense of Epson's naming conventions.

Epson Printer Series Prefixes

Epson typically prefixes their model numbers with letters that signify the printer's product segment:

• P = Photo / Proofing (SureColor)
• T = Technical / Corporate Graphics (SureColor)
• D = Photo Dry Lab (SureLab)
• S = Signage / Solvent (SureColor)
• R = Resin (SureColor)
• V = Ultraviolet (SureColor)
• F = Fabric / Dye-Sublimation (SureColor)

Understanding Epson Printer Suffixes

After the model number, Epson often adds letters to further define the printer variation. These suffixes provide detail about configuration, ink sets, and included components:

P-Series Suffixes

• SE = Standard Edition (includes light light black or gray ink)
• CE = Commercial Edition (replaces light light black with violet ink)
• D = Dual Roll + Adobe Embedded Print Engine
• DE = Dual Roll, No Embedded Print Engine
• E = Single Roll, No Embedded Print Engine
• DL = Dual Roll with Embedded Engine + Large 1.6L Ink Packs ("L")

D-Series

The SureLab dry lab models like the D1070 may include a DE suffix for double-sided print capability.

R-Series & S-Series

• L = Bulk Ink Configuration
• PC = Print & Cut Edition (includes Graphtec cutter)

F-Series

• H = Hex Color Configuration (6-color ink set)
• Earlier models like F63 had SE (Standard Edition) and PE (Professional Edition with take-up reel)

While these suffixes may seem complex at first, they offer helpful insight into what you can expect from the printer out of the box. As new generations launch, some suffixes may be phased out—but IT Supplies is here to help you stay informed.

If you're unsure which Epson printer is right for your workflow, call us at 1-800-771-9665 and speak with a commercial sales specialist. Or visit our website for more product info and expert guidance.

Ready to shop? Browse Epson Printers at IT Supplies

IT Supplies is your trusted source for Epson, HP, and Canon printers—including aqueous, eco-solvent, latex, flatbed, and dye-sublimation models. Visit us at itsupplies.com.

Choosing the Right Printer for Your Needs—Simplified

Here at our Chicagoland demo center, we house a wide selection of printers from Epson, Canon, and HP. We frequently host customers for hands-on demos to help them experience the machines in person. But for our customers across the country, an in-person visit isn’t always possible. So how can IT Supplies help you evaluate which printer is best for your business, no matter where you're located? Our new video above explains our proven 5-step process.

Step 1 – We Start with a Conversation

Every successful printer selection starts with a clear understanding of your needs. We schedule a one-on-one consultation to discuss your goals, print applications, production requirements, space limitations, and more. This helps us narrow down the best printer options from Epson, Canon, or HP that are specifically tailored to your business model and print objectives.

Step 2 – You Send Us Your Print Files

Once we understand your goals, we ask you to submit your actual files. This allows us to demonstrate how each printer handles your real-world jobs—rather than generic samples. It’s about showing, not just telling, which printer performs best for your application.

Step 3 – We Print Your Files on Recommended Printers

Our expert technicians will print your files on the printers that best match your needs, using media that closely simulates your production environment. Want to test a specific material? Send it in—we’ll print directly on it to give you the most accurate representation possible.

Step 4 – We Measure Print Speed and Ink Usage

Speed and cost per print are critical considerations in any printer decision. We time each job and track ink consumption to provide you with detailed performance data. This allows you to evaluate not just print quality, but also throughput and ongoing costs.

Step 5 – We Ship the Samples to You

After printing and analysis, we ship all samples directly to you for review. You’ll have everything you need to compare print quality, speeds, and costs between models. Your dedicated IT Supplies sales consultant will follow up to answer questions and help you make an informed, confident decision.

Bonus Step 6 – Place Your Order with Confidence

Once you're satisfied with the results, we help you move forward with your printer purchase, knowing you’ve selected the right tool for your business. Our goal is to take the guesswork out of printer buying and give you clarity, no matter where you're located.

Whether you’re looking at a new Epson production printer, Canon photo printer, or HP latex model, our 5-step printer evaluation process ensures that your investment is backed by real-world results and expert guidance. Give us a call today or visit ITSupplies.com to get started.

Need help selecting your next printer? Call us at 800-771-9665 and we’ll walk you through the evaluation and testing process.

If you found this blog helpful, watch the video above, give it a like, and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more tips and printer insights!

Maximize Your ROI with Eco-Solvent Printing