Machine review
Ghostwriter (Automated Signature Technology) Review
US autopen maker (Sterling, VA). Per the ASTI catalog, signature machines run $2,674 (Ghostwriter T200, manual feed) to $8,795 (MAX-T2, auto-feed). The variable-data handwriting machines that write full personalized letters and address envelopes are the T-Writer ($4,174, manual feed) and MAXWriter ($8,999, auto-feed). Fonts cost $499–$1,300 (the top tier converts your own handwriting); a signature card is ~$150. Gold/Silver maintenance plans are sold separately.
Specs at a glance
| Type | Autopen |
|---|---|
| Tier | Production tier — meets the continuous-duty criteria in our methodology |
| Tier notes | The auto-feed MAX-T / MAXWriter models meet the production criteria (continuous-duty feeding, US support and parts); the manual-feed T-models operate more like desktop units. |
| Brand | ASTI |
| Price (USD) | $2,674–$8,999 |
| Pricing notes | The $2,674 base (T200) does signatures only with no feeder. Models that write full variable letters start at $4,174 (T-Writer); auto-feed MAXWriter is $8,999. |
| Plot / write area | Signatures, short notes, and variable letters/envelopes (Writer models) |
| Auto-feed | Yes — Auto-feed on MAX-T / MAXWriter (base T-models are single-feed) |
| Pen types | Any pen — ballpoint, felt-tip, marker, fountain, pencil |
| Software | ASTI software (Windows); 1,000+ fonts, custom-handwriting font option |
| OS | Windows |
| API | No |
| Throughput | Bulk signing; full variable letters on Writer models |
| Best for | Business / production |
Pros and cons
Pros
- US-made; published catalog pricing
- Writer models write full variable letters + address envelopes
- Works with almost any pen; custom-handwriting font option
Cons
- Signature-focused line; only the pricier Writer models do full letters
- No CRM integrations or API
- Established/older platform — confirm current support responsiveness, parts, and machine uptime before buying
Specs and price last checked June 18, 2026. A "~" or "unverified" note means the figure came from a third party or a non-USD source — confirm with the vendor before buying.