Elegoo, a well-known name in the desktop 3D printing space, has just unveiled its latest innovation: the Centauri Carbon 2 Combo. This new FDM 3D printer brings multi-color printing to the budget segment, thanks to its integration with the AMS Lite system. With a competitive price point and a host of user-friendly features, the Centauri Carbon 2 Combo is poised to shake up the market for hobbyists and professionals alike.
Affordable Multi-Color 3D Printing with AMS Lite
The standout feature of the Centauri Carbon 2 Combo is its compatibility with Elegoo’s AMS Lite (Automatic Material System), which allows users to print with up to four different filaments in a single job. This system is similar in concept to Bambu Lab’s AMS, but Elegoo’s version is designed to be more accessible in terms of both price and ease of use.
The AMS Lite system works by automatically switching between filaments during a print, enabling seamless multi-color or multi-material prints. This is a significant step forward for budget 3D printers, which have traditionally been limited to single-color output unless heavily modified.
Elegoo’s AMS Lite is included in the Centauri Carbon 2 Combo package, making it a turnkey solution for users who want to explore multi-color printing without investing in expensive upgrades or third-party systems.
Centauri Carbon 2: Core Features and Specifications
The Centauri Carbon 2 is a CoreXY 3D printer, a design known for its speed and precision. It features a build volume of 350 x 350 x 350 mm, which is generous for a printer in this price range. The CoreXY motion system allows for faster print speeds and smoother movement, making it ideal for both detailed models and large-scale prints.
Key specifications include:
- Build Volume: 350 x 350 x 350 mm
- Motion System: CoreXY
- Print Head: Direct drive extruder
- Bed Leveling: Automatic bed leveling
- Touchscreen: 5-inch color touchscreen interface
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB, and SD card support
The printer also includes a PEI-coated flexible build plate for easy part removal, a filament runout sensor, and power loss recovery—features that are increasingly expected even in budget machines.
Pricing and Market Position
Elegoo has priced the Centauri Carbon 2 Combo at $570, which includes the AMS Lite system. This makes it one of the most affordable multi-color 3D printing solutions currently available. For comparison, Bambu Lab’s AMS-equipped printers typically start at a higher price point, making Elegoo’s offering particularly attractive to budget-conscious makers.
By bundling the AMS Lite with the printer, Elegoo is positioning the Centauri Carbon 2 Combo as a complete solution for users who want to dive into multi-color printing without the hassle of sourcing and integrating third-party components.
Elegoo has also hinted at future updates and ecosystem expansions, suggesting that the Centauri line may become a platform for further innovation in accessible multi-material printing.
Applications and Use Cases
The Centauri Carbon 2 Combo is well-suited for a wide range of applications, from hobbyist projects and cosplay props to functional prototypes and educational models. The ability to print in multiple colors without manual filament swaps opens up creative possibilities for designers and engineers alike.
Educational institutions may also find value in the Centauri Carbon 2 Combo, as it offers a hands-on way to teach students about advanced 3D printing techniques without requiring a large investment. Similarly, small businesses and product developers can use the printer to create visually appealing prototypes that better represent final products.
Final Thoughts
With the Centauri Carbon 2 Combo, Elegoo is making multi-color 3D printing more accessible than ever. By combining a capable CoreXY printer with the AMS Lite system at a sub-$600 price point, the company is lowering the barrier to entry for users who want to explore more complex and colorful prints. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or just getting started, this new offering from Elegoo is worth a closer look.
Source: Tom’s Hardware
