CEDIA 2009: New 1080p front projectors aim high and low

Been waiting to pull the trigger on a new front projector, but were wondering if prices are going to drop further? The answer is yes, as companies such as Epson, JVC, Mitsubishi, Samsung, and Sony—whose projectors have typically done well in our Ratings (available to subscribers)—announced new, lower-priced models that will arrive over the next two months at the recent CEDIA electronics trade show. While there were no low-price bombshells—that happened a several weeks ago when both Vivitek and Optoma debuted the first sub-$1,000 1080p models—we did see some new, lower-priced entry-level products from these companies, plus step-up models at lower prices than we've seen so far. Here are some of the front-projector highlights from the show:

Sony aimed high and low with its newest 1080p SXRD (LCOS-based) front-projection models. At the upper end is the Bravia VPL-VW85, an $8,000 model that will be available later this month. Among its features is Sony's Motionflow 120Hz anti-blur processing, and a mode for using an anamorphic (2.35:1) lens. Targeting a more budget-conscious customer is an entry-level SXRD model, the $3,000 Bravia VPL-HW15. Both models arrive later this month.

Mitsubishi unveiled two new lower-cost models. Priced at $1,500, the HC3800 is an entry-level 1080p DLP projector (most recent Mitsubishi projectors we've reviewed have been 3LCD models). It will be available during the third quarter. A step up is the $2,300 HC6800, a 3LCD model that features a motorized lens shift (both vertical and horizontal). The projector has a snazzier design and matte-black finish. Both have a pair of anamorphic lens modes.

Epson Pro Cinema 9500 UB (Click to enlarge.)
[PHOTO: Courtesy of Epson]

Epson headed to the show with four new 1080p 3LCD home-theater projectors, all in its PowerLite line. Two are PowerLite Home Cinema (HC) models, and the other pair are PowerLite Pro Cinema (PC) units. The HC8100 ($1,600) is an entry-level piece, while the HC 8500 UB ($3,000) is a step-up model with claimed better contrast thanks to a dual-iris system and Silicon Optix's Reon-VX video processing/upscaling. In the Pro Cinema series, the PC 9100 is a $2,600 1080p LCD model that features ISF calibration and a 2.1x optical zoom with manual focus. It will be available next month. The step-up model is the Pro Cinema 9500 UB ($4,000, November), which adds THX certification, the dual-iris system, an anamorphic lens mode, and Reon-VX video processing. Epson throws in a ceiling mount and cable cover with the unit.

Samsung has a new, lower-priced DLP projector, the A600, which will retail for $1,800. The projector is relatively lightweight (13 pounds) and features a gloss-black finish. It has a short-throw lens, so it can be placed on the floor or ceiling-mounted closer to the screen.

InFocus showed off its first projector since new management took over in April. The ScreenPlay SP8602 ($5,000) is a 1080p DLP model available at the end of the month. The unit uses a DLP's DarkChip technology, Pixelworks DNX 10-bit video processor, and 120Hz technology. Unlike many less expensive DLP projectors, this model has a lens shift (both vertical and horizontal) for easier placement, and optional colored "skins" are available to match room decors. It also has a 5-year warranty.

JVC DLA-HD550(Click to enlarge.)
[PHOTO: Courtesy of JVC]

After wowing the crowds with its $175,000 "4K" home-theater projector—a "Quad HD" model with 4096x2400 resolution, four times that of a 1080p model—JVC then served up six new D-ILA (LCOS-based) front projectors in the $5,000 to $10,000 price range. Three models— the DLA-HD550 ($5,000), HD950 ($8,000) and HD990 ($10,000) are Procision consumer models, while the DLA-RS15 ($5,500) RS25 ($8,000) and RS35 ($10,000) are Reference-series projectors sold by its pro division. Common features include claimed higher native contrast ratios (without the use of an auto iris), 120Hz Clear Motion Drive, motorized horizontal and vertical lens shift, four screen-type (anamorphic) modes, and HQV Reon-VX video processors/upscalers from Silicon Optix. The four pricier models also get THX, and the top two get ISF certification and a longer 3-year warranty.

We'll also be filing a Blu-ray wrap-up from the CEDIA show, so stay tuned. —James K. Willcox