Digital Finishing Group isn't as well known in the binding world when compared with such heavyweights as GBC and Fellowes, but they still make some good machines. One of these is the DFG EC-2000 which is an electric spiral coil binding machine that can withstand heavy-duty use. It's available for a great price (especially when you consider the machine's features), but it does have a couple of limitations. This review will fill you in on the EC2000's strengths and weaknesses so you can decide if this is the right machine for you and your office.

When you look at the EC-2000, one thing you'll immediately notice is how well-built it is because it's made entirely out of metal. Its construction is meant to ensure that this machine will last for a very long time. It's capable of punching up to 25 pieces of paper at once, which is a pretty decent amount, especially for a machine of this size. The machine has a document measuring gadget that's built-in, as well as a depth of punch margin control, which is always a nice feature to have. There's also a spiral coil inserter that's on top of the machine; you have to use a foot pedal to get the inserter and punch going. Also, DFG has included a pair of crimping pliers in every box. This was a thoughtful move on their part because these pliers can be spendy (about $30 per pair) and you absolutely need to have them to crimp your spiral binding. (If you don't do this, the spiral will spin out of your document, which means you spend all that time binding for nothing.)

The EC-2000 is fairly reasonably priced, especially for such a heavy-duty machine. It goes for about $1,100.00. The EC2000 is priced lower than most other electric coil binding machines because the machine doesn't have disengageable dies, which is a major bummer. Without disengageable dies, you're stuck with creating letter-sized (8.5" x 11") documents. You can punch just about any size item with the EC-2000, but you may end up with an extra half hole on the edge of your page.

This machine also has a built-in electric coil inserter. You may find the inserter difficult to use because it only has one roller (as opposed to two) and the one roller is a mere six inches long. Many other machines have dual rollers that are much longer and thus, and are easier to use. The EC-2000's roller is on top of the machine, which is a bit awkward and you might find that it takes some getting used to using the foot pedal to operate the machine. The pedal isn't as well-constructed as the rest of the machine, so it may need to be replaced at some point, especially since it'll be stepped on repeatedly during operation. This is the machine's weakest point.

Overall, the DFG EC-2000 electric spiral coil binding machine is a good choice for companies that need a machine that can only bind letter-sized documents. It has a great heavy-duty punch, an integrated coil inserter, and it even comes with a pair of crimpers, so you'll save about $30.00. If you can live with the machine's handful of limitations, the DFG EC-2000 should be a pleasing addition to your office.