Blurb.com book review: updated (May 2009)

Following up my previous review of blurb.com book, I would like to share with you some of the new features available.

You can now order books with Premium photo paper

This makes a whole difference in print quality. I've ordered a book in November 2008, here are some sample images:




Binding
The new binding is now better, more flat and rigid. However, it "eats" more of the images in the spine, so, be careful when putting elements towards the inner edge of the page.

Print quality has been much improved with Premium paper: lighter tones are less grainy, and the paper (150g / m2) is very pleasant.

Colors fidelity: 5/5 Colors are very good. Not too dark, no wrong colorcast, this is a VERY pleasant. Really, kudos to Blurb - labs who know me can tell you how much I care about it :) Perfect colors and luminosity all the way.

Grainless photo printing: 4/5 Grain is noticable at close inspection but it isn't much of a problem

Compression and artefacts: 4/5 Images are a little soft but it matches the printing quality.

Light tones rendering: 4/5 Light tones are less grainy on premium paper.

Finishing: 5/5 The book looks solid and nice.

Soft-cover version I've tried the soft-cover binding and it is surprisingly solid and cheaper too.