[design_tools] We Finally Get The QuarkXPress 6.5 Update

Two days ago an unassuming little CD-ROM mailer arrived here, with a return address of "Quark Distribution" in Cheyenne, Wyoming (so, that's where quarks come from...Wyoming...). In it were two CD-ROMs:

1) Quark XPress 6.1 updater
2) Quark XPress 6.5 updater.

Now, I already have the 6.1, thanks for the extra CD, Quark, but the 6.5 is what I've been on the lookout for.

QuarkXPress 6.5 brings several new features. What I think many have had thier eyes on, however, is the 'QuarkVista' XTension software, which adds in-program image manipulation-common filters and adjustments such as Gaussian Blur, posterization, levels, selective color, unsharp mask-many other items which users of Photoshop-class programs are well familiar with. They are said to be 'nondestructive', that is, they affect how Quark sees the files but do not work on the files themselves.

The question is, will QuarkVista and the changes 6.5 bring keep users interested in QuarkXPress, make them feel as though they're getting value for money for a seat, and look forward to the notional QuarkXPress 7.0, rumored to be due out within the next 18 months?

I'll play with it and let everyone know. In the meantime I've realized one benefit-I now have 30 new Linotype Library OpenType fonts, free for being a registered XPress user. Not to be sneezed at.