Makerbot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer Unveiled at New Store

Brooklyn-based 3D printing company Makerbot opened its first store in New York last week, selling 3D printers, supplies and 3D printed gifts. The store will also function as a platform for 3D printing workshops and demonstrations to raise awareness of this increasingly important manufacturing process.

Also unveiled was the next generation of the Makerbot desktop 3D printer, named Replicator 2. It is significantly more advanced than the previous models. The printer can produce a 0.1mm layer resolution, creating more professionally finished objects that do not require sanding or post-production. It can also produce objects 37% bigger than the previous desktop printer, and uses a renewable bioplastic filament produced by Makerbot.

Priced at $2,199 it is more expensive than the previous models, but the company believes this printer is invaluable for professional designers and serious amateurs. A more expensive and advanced model – the Replicater 2X – has also been announced and is due for sale in early 2013. This version will feature dual-extrusion, allowing it to create smaller, but much more intricate models. 

For more on 3D printing, see the Stylus report Digital Reality.

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