Projectors provide the most efficient way of getting big-screen images in the home, and today’s models offer a ton of possibilities, including ultra-high-resolution video quality, easy placement with ultra-short-throw models, and even portability. Here is a look at some recent entries to the market.
Sony VPL-GTZ380 4K SXRD Laser Projector
The Sony VPL-GTZ380 4K SXRD laser projector boasts a 10,000-lumen brightness with 100 percent DCI-P3 color gamut that is achieved with a 3-channel laser light source. A high-intensity blue laser activates the phosphor light source for wide gamut white light, while additional balanced red and blue laser light sources negate the need for a light-sapping color filter.
The SXRD (Silicon X-tal Reflective Display) panel technology featured in Sony’s home theater projectors delivers native 4K-resolution (4096 x 2160) images with 8.8 million pixels for a lifelike picture. SXRD projection offers rich, inky blacks as well as clear cinematic motion and image smoothness, and can reproduce vibrant colors with more tones and textures than a standard projector system, according to Sony.
X1 Ultimate for projector takes Sony’s BRAVIA TV video processing and optimizes it for projection. The power of this video engine enables prodigious data processing, with real-time enhancement for each individual on-screen object. With object-based HDR Remaster powered by X1 Ultimate for projector, the color in individual objects on screen is analyzed and the contrast adjusted. Because objects are remastered individually, this projector can reproduce greater depth and textures, and more realistic pictures.
XGIMI Aura 4K UST Projector
XGIMI has announced the launch of a new 4K ultra-short-throw laser projector, the Aura. As XGIMI’s first laser projector, the Aura is now available globally on the XGIMI website. The Aura uses ultra-short-throw technology to project images at up to 150 inches, while only being inches away from the screen. Aura features an Android TV 10 user interface that has the ability to run streaming services like Disney+ and Amazon Prime, without the need for external hardware. The Aura also has built-in Chromecast functionality for content casting and features three HDMI ports for external devices.
The Aura is capable of projecting at 4K and HDR10 resolutions with screen sizes of up to 150 inches while also adding low-latency image processing capabilities. The Aura projector is powered by 2400 ANSI lumens of brightness. Thanks to the Aura’s ultra-short-throw technology, the projector only needs to be a little over eight inches away from the screen to get the full 100-inch display.
The immersion is only helped by the four 15-watt Harman-Kardon speakers that are built into the Aura projector that feature two tweeters and two subwoofers. The speakers include Dolby and DTS audio support. The projector can also be used as a Bluetooth speaker or soundbar when not being used to watch content.
LG CineBeam PF610P Full HD LED Projector
The LG CineBeam Full HD LED projector (model PF610P) delivers high picture quality in expansive proportions with the convenience of portability. The LG CineBeam PF610P is available now at select LG-authorized retailers and at LG.com with an SRP of $849.99
The LG CineBeam Full HD LED projector delivers high-resolution images at up to 120 inches (diagonally). Featuring 1000 ANSI lumens of brightness, the PF610P offers 4-channel LED, which enhances brilliance, contrast, and color for a more immersive entertainment experience. The projector’s light source is reliable and durable, with a lifespan of approximately 30,000 hours of entertainment.
The LG CineBeam Full HD LED projector feature a 4 Corner Keystone that enables adjustment of the screen from four different points; the keystone achieves accurate proportions from virtually any angle. Additionally, the PF610P features a 1.195 Throw Ratio, allowing large screens to be projected even from close range, transforming any room into a home theater.
For maximum convenience, the LG CineBeam Full HD LED projector features wireless connectivity with home theater audio systems via Bluetooth. The projector also offers support for Dolby Atmos audio. Packed inside a lightweight, minimal frame, the LG CineBeam PF610P is easily portable for on-the-go use.
The projector runs LG’s newest webOS 5.0 platform for control and navigation as well as quick access to streaming services such as Disney+ and YouTube. It is compatible with Apple AirPlay 2 and MiraCast for Android users.
BenQ LK936ST Laser Projector
BenQ has released the first 4K laser projector in its Laser DLP lineup built for home and commercial golf simulators. Available for $5849 MSRP, the 4K UHD 5100 ANSI lumen LK936ST laser projector features 92 percent Rec. 709 color coverage for realistic golf course hues, 20,000 hours of maintenance-free use, and robust features for flexible installation. Combining the high-brightness and resolution required for golf simulation with the contrast and color accuracy also demanded by home cinema and gaming, the LK936ST lets users combine the best of both worlds in the same room for a “SimTheater” complete entertainment experience.
BenQ’s LK936ST features an exclusive golf color mode. With a touch of the Golf Mode button, the projector references the natural blue skies and realistic green grass from popular golf software, immersing golfers in the world’s most celebrated courses. Seven other picture modes optimize the experience for home theater, gaming, or any other entertainment scenario. Leveraging Texas Instruments’ DLP chip technology trusted by digital cinema theaters worldwide, the LK936ST’s picture also provides 4K UHD resolution and a stratospheric 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio for enhanced graphics with instant, lag-free response to the golfer’s shots.
Epson Pro Cinema LS12000 4K PRO-UHD laser projector
Epson has introduced its most advanced home theater projector to date — the Epson Pro Cinema LS12000 4K PRO-UHD laser projector. Incorporating an all-new Laser Array Light Source, next-generation image enhancement and processing algorithms, expanded HDR10+ and HDMI 2.1 support, and real-time scene adaptive correction, the Pro Cinema LS12000 produces incredible brightness, color accuracy, and image detail for stunning 4K viewing experiences and immersive gaming, according to the company.
Driven by a proprietary Epson ZX Picture Processor and new precision shift glass plate technology, the Pro Cinema LS12000 delivers a sharp and clear 4K picture with a 2700 lumens of both color and white brightness.
The Epson Pro Cinema LS12000 4K PRO-UHD laser projector (MSRP $4999) is now available through the Epson online store and Magnolia and CEDIA dealers. The projector includes ISF-certified calibration tools and Anamorphic lens option. The new projector come with Epson’s warranty and support, including a standard three-year limited warranty with two-business-day full unit replacement, including free shipping, and free lifetime technical phone support.
Samsung Electronics The Freestyle
For those who like to live their life on-the-go, there’s the Freestyle. The Freestyle offers the technology and customization capabilities of Samsung’s smart TVs — plus portability. Weighing in at less than two pounds (1.83 lbs), it’s a versatile and lightweight device. Lay it on the ground and watch a show on the ceiling with its 180-degree cradle stand, or sit in your bed and project your favorite content onto your walls, from 30 to 100 inches. Built with Auto Focus and Auto Levelling features that automatically align and convert content, the Freestyle lets you project whatever you’re watching onto an unlimited number of surfaces — at home, outside, and anywhere in-between. When you purchase the base accessory, you can even attach the Freestyle to a standard E26 lightbulb socket.
The Freestyle also offers 360-degree sound and far-field voice control. With a Freestyle, you can seamlessly curate memorable audio-visual experiences by attaching its lens cap to create mood lighting, then synching the lighting to your favorite playlist. Plus, Samsung is offering an optional waterproof case and USB-C portable battery.
