The Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K S 3D Printer is a large-format resin 3D printer designed for high-efficiency mass production and ambitious hobbyists. It maintains the core high-resolution capability of its predecessor, the original Mega 8K, while focusing on speed and affordability.
Key Specifications & Performance
- Massive Print Volume & Resolution: It features a 15-inch 8K Mono-LCD screen with an XY resolution of 43 µm, which is great for producing detailed models over a large area. The print volume is substantial at 33 x 18.5 x 30 cm (12.9″ x 7.2″ x 11.8″).
- High-Speed Printing: The ‘S’ model is built for speed, boasting an average printing speed of up to 600 layers/hr due to its new high-speed system and the use of the ACF (Anisotropic Conductive Film) release film, which reduces suction forces. This allows it to print large batches quickly.
- Ease of Use Features: The printer comes with a pre-calibrated build plate for immediate use out of the box. It features a convenient lift-up lid to save space and a built-in drip hanger to safely drain excess resin back into the vat, making cleanup more efficient and saving material.
Mega 8K S vs. Mega 8K: Core Differences
The Sonic Mega 8K S is generally considered the more production-focused and affordable alternative to the original Sonic Mega 8K, which was geared more toward engineering and rapid prototyping with extreme accuracy in mind.
- Speed vs. Accuracy Focus: The Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K S 3D Printer prioritizes speed and production volume (with the faster ACF film and high-speed system), while the original Mega 8K, though also large, was known for a slightly more robust build structure (metal doors) and a taller Z-axis (40 cm vs. 30 cm) for the largest possible single prints.
- Design & Footprint: The Mega 8K S uses a space-saving lift-up lid (often in a bright green) and is slightly shorter, whereas the original Mega 8K had front-opening double metal doors (and was taller).
- Connectivity & Accessories: The Mega 8K S is built to integrate seamlessly with the optional Pump & Fill system for automatic resin management.
User Feedback & Potential Quirks
While users praise the incredible detail and sheer size capacity, some feedback points to common issues:
- Adhesion Issues: Some users have reported difficulty with prints not sticking to the build plate initially, which is often solved by scuffing the build plate and/or increasing the bottom layer exposure time.
- Resin Curing in Plate: The perforated build plate, designed to reduce suction and help drain resin, can sometimes have resin cure inside the holes, making it difficult to clean, particularly with certain high-transparency resins.
- Post-Processing Size: Due to the massive build area, users often need to invest in matching large-format wash and cure stations, such as the Wash Mega S and Cure Mega S, which increases the overall required workspace.
