Mitsubishi's 2009 TV lineup: A new LCD TV series, and even new rear projection sets

If rear-projection TV is dead, someone forgot to tell Mitsubishi. Its just-unveiled 2009 TV lineup features a new premium series of LCD TV models and four new rear-projection microdisplay DLP TV sets, including an 82-inch behemoth.

The most notable feature of the new Unisen LCD TVs (Click on the image at right for a closer look) is an integrated 16-speaker Dolby Digital 5.1-channel sound system. The sets use sound–processing circuitry and digital delays to create "sound beams" that can produce an immersive surround-sound experience without additional components or speakers.

Three new series bearing the Unisen name will be available next month. All are 1080p sets with 120 Hz technology to reduce motion blur, and ultra-thin (1-inch) frames. The Unisen 151 sets come in 40- ($1,800), 46- ($2,200), and 52-inch ($2,600) screen sizes. Step-up Unisen 153 models add a more stylish finish, different anti-judder technology, and a calibration microphone for optimizing sound. These come in 40- ($2,000), 46- ($2,400), and 52-inch ($2,900) screen sizes. At the top of the LCD lineup is the Unisen Diamond 249 Series, which consists of 46- ($2,800) and 52-inch ($3,300) sets. These sets have all the 153-series features, can be professionally calibrated, a more powerful amplifier, and a different finish. These sets are also Internet-ready.

For reviews of previous Mitsubishi LCD sets, check out our LCD Ratings (available to subscribers). For more detailed info on the new models, visit Engadget to see the Mitsubishi press release.

DLP rear-projection TV's last stand?

With Samsung's announced departure from the rear-projection business this year, Mitsubishi is the only remaining major player. The company reaffirmed its position by announcing two new rear-projection DLP series, and says it's continuing to offer its 65-inch LaerVue set which uses a laser backlight in place of a conventional lamp.

New 737 Series sets (Click on the image at right for a closer look.) include the 82-inch ($4,199), 73-inch ($2,499), 65-inch ($1,799) and 60-inch screen sizes. The step-up 837 series—also offered in 65- ($2,200), 73-inch ($3,000), and 82-inch ($5,000) screen sizes—have more sophisticated video processing circuitry, can be professionally calibrated, a more powerful amp, and one more (4) HDMI input. All models are 3D-ready, have a six-color processor, and are EnergyStar 3.0 qualified.

Mitsubishi also said its 65-inch LaserVue TV, which uses a laser rather than a lamp for its backlight, is now back in production after a manufacturing glitch temporarily suspended production earlier this year. We'll be following the rear-projection TV market this year to see if it remains a viable alternative to flat-panel TVs in the very largest screen sizes.—James K. Willcox.