why don't they make generic thermal printer ribbons?

[QueBert]

I have the Sony DPP-EX50, and I love it. But the damn thermal packs cost too much. There is a big market for these types of printers now as you see them at almost all electronic stores. It would make sense to me that some company would come out with aftermarket ribbon/paper for these, but I haven't found any.

 

[TRUMPHENT]

The Sony DPP-EX50 is "Dye Sublimation" printer. It's a lot trickier than inkjet or laser toner. If the generic ribbons didn't ruin your printer, you would probably not be impressed with the output compared to the Sony consumables.

 

[Zanix]

Thermal printers need ribbons?