QuarkXpress 6.5 Launched

Quark Inc. has released QuarkXPress 6.5. The latest version of the publishing software adds several new features including a module for image manipulation, support for native Photoshop files, a module that allows for variable data printing, and more.

The software's new QuarkVista XTensions module allows for image editing within the context of the layout. The module allows for adjustments in color balance, levels, brightness, and contrast, and also allows users to apply a variety of common filters to images used in a QuarkXPress layout (the filter parameters can be changed at any time, without affecting the source image file). Quark Vista also can optimize images for output by applying transformations such as scale, crop, angle, and skew those images, dramatically reducing the size of files for output (and the time required to RIP). And users can use the software to perform graphic-file format and color-space conversions.

Users can now import native Adobe Photoshop documents (PSD files) into QuarkXPress, using multi-layer Photoshop images without leaving QuarkXPress. Once imported, image layers can be switched on and off, opacities and blend methods can be modified, channels can be assigned to be spot colors, and clipping paths can be chosen.

QuarkXPress 6.5 also includes an upgrade to QuarkXClusive, the XTensions module that allows users to output customized, database-driven documents on HP Indigo digital presses. The new version adds support for PPML-T, allowing it to output to both new and older models of HP Indigo digital presses through HP's Production Flow.

Other new features include support for Citrix application deployment software (for large workgroups); increased stability; support for guides on pasteboards on master pages; and the ability to set bleed and OPI settings in print styles using XTensions software.

Due to begin shipping in mid-November, the QuarkXPress 6.5 upgrade is available at no charge to registered users of QuarkXPress 6. For new users, the price will be $945 (special pricing for Multi-site licenses, students and educators, and non-profits).(Quark Inc: www.quark.com)