top of page

Digital Sample

What is a Digital Sample?

A digital sample is a printing proof created using a digital printing machine, such as an HP Indigo. These samples may be produced through processes like inkjet, toner, or other digital printing technologies. At Ally Sourcing, while we use offset printers for mass production, digital printers are employed to create samples. Digital samples provide a reasonable representation of the final product’s layout, including text, image sizes, and positions. They also offer an approximation of the overall thickness and feel of the project once folded.
 

Limitations of Digital Samples
Although digital samples can give a general idea of the final product, there are important limitations to keep in mind:
 

  1. Color Accuracy: Digital samples are not as precise as offset printing when it comes to color reproduction. The differences are due to the distinct technologies and materials used in digital versus offset printing.

  2. Paper Differences: Digital samples are printed on digital printing paper, which is different from the paper used in offset printing. This can affect the texture, weight, and color appearance.
     

When to Use Digital Samples
Digital samples are best suited for:
 

  • Assessing the layout, text, and image positioning.

  • Gaining a general sense of the project’s dimensions and thickness.

  • Quick and cost-effective reviews for projects where color precision is not critical.
     

For Greater Accuracy
If color accuracy is essential for your project, we recommend considering hard proofs or offset printing samples. These options provide a more accurate representation of colors and paper quality, ensuring the final product meets your expectations. By understanding the role and limitations of digital samples, you can use them effectively to streamline the proofing process and achieve your desired results. At Ally Sourcing, we’re here to guide you in selecting the best proofing method for your project.

Digital-Sample.jpg

If you are in the initial stages of producing a new project, a digital sample is a good proofing option. This will give you a rough idea of how the final product will appear. Examples of these projects may be children's bookscomic books, catalogs or new booklet projects.

A digital sample is relatively cheap and quick to produce. It can be printed straight from the computer or print file. These samples are often produced so different departments and personnel and can comment and mark them up. This is an advantage over PDF proofing, for example. It is easier to read and mark a printed sheet than a file viewed on screen. Several digital printed samples may be produced as the job progresses until it is ready for the next proofing stage. The main advantage of working this way is that costs can be kept down and alterations easily made. Changes to text, image, and graphic sizes and positions can easily be implemented at this stage. It is more expensive to make changes further in the process. Digital samples may also be used for offering customers different design options before submitting the final print files.

A digital sample provides a reasonable idea of color but does not reproduce it as accurately as other methods. The paper used is generally standard inkjet paper. This is unlikely to be similar to the final paper stock chosen for the printed job. The main disadvantages of a digital sample are less accurate color reproduction and the fact it uses a standard paper stock. It is not a proofing system that can be used for color matching on the offset litho press. Digital samples are commonly produced before other proofing methods are used further along in the production process.

A digital printing sample is an excellent choice for quick and affordable proofing. It provides an overall visual guide to your project during the initial stages when changes are still being made. However, while digital samples are convenient, they have limitations and may need to be supplemented with other proofing methods, such as hard proofs or offset printing samples, for greater accuracy.
 

Offset Printing Sample: The Most Accurate Proofing Method

For the most precise proofing, an offset printing sample (or machine proof) is ideal. This method uses the same printing plates, offset presses, and paper stock as the final production run, making it a near-exact representation of the finished product.
 

Offset printing samples are particularly beneficial when:
 

  • The project uses uncoated, tinted, or specialty paper stock, as colors can appear differently on varying materials.

  • Special Pantone inks are required, as these will be tested and reproduced accurately.

  • Color accuracy is critical, or the print job has high value and requires exact reproduction.


For cost and efficiency, only a few pages are typically proofed using this method. These pages provide a clear view of how colors will appear on the chosen paper stock, especially for unique materials.
 

The Role of Hard Proofs

In conjunction with an offset printing sample, a hard proof is often provided to review the complete layout. While it may not match the precise colors of the final print, a hard proof is essential for checking text, images, and overall design consistency.
 

Selecting the Best Proofing Method

The choice of proofing method depends on several factors, including:
 

  • Budget: Offset printing samples are more expensive but offer unparalleled accuracy.

  • Time Constraints: Digital samples are faster to produce, making them suitable for tight timelines.

  • Job Value: High-value projects may justify the cost of offset samples to ensure perfection.

  • Color Requirements: If exact color reproduction is essential, an offset sample is recommended.
     

Our Expertise at Ally Sourcing

At Ally Sourcing, we guide you in selecting the most suitable proofing method for your project. Whether you need a cost-effective digital sample or the precision of an offset printing sample, we’ll help you balance quality, budget, and time to achieve the best results.

By choosing the right proofing method, you can ensure your project is produced to the highest standard, meeting your expectations while staying within your budget. Reach out to us for expert advice and professional guidance tailored to your needs.

HERE TO HELP

If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our prepress experts are ready to guide you through the process. Once you’ve prepared your files, feel free to send them our way—we’ll review them carefully. If we spot any issues, we’ll notify you right away and assist in resolving them. Our goal is to make your experience seamless and ensure you achieve the best possible results. We’re here to support you every step of the way!

bottom of page