Sony's latest HD projectors: the VPL-VW100 HD SXRD and VPL-HS60

Take that, Qualia: Sony persists in continuing to announce devices in Japan we probably won't get to hack it on, but we're not anyone to argue with their new VPL-VW100 HD SXRD projector. The three-SXRD (Silicon X-tal Reflective Display) 1,080p monster has a 400w Xenon lamp, 15,000:1 contrast ratio, and all the digital inputs you're gonna need—but a matching pricetag of ¥1,365,000 (about $12,500 US). Almost as an afterthought they announced their new VPL-HS60, too, which is a 10,000:1 contrast ratio 720p device which will hit your bankbook for a significantly smaller chunk of change: ¥409,500 (about $3,750 US).

[Via I4U]

[Rick @ Dec 19th 2005 1:05AM]

Is this the lowest price choice, or are there any other lower priced 1080p projectors on the market?

[Swift @ Dec 19th 2005 1:05AM]

Can someone please explain to me why projectors are so expensive? Is is in the technology or are they just that expensive because they can be?

[Marcos @ Dec 19th 2005 1:05AM]

Wow, I just saw the VPL-HS60 projector just 5 minutes ago in Case Western's new virtual gaming lab. They spent over 100 grand on top of the line alienware computers with the new 512mb SLI gaming cards, 24" dell's and PS2, xbox, and gamecubes at each of the 5 stations. Each station has this brand new Sony Projector, oh yea, and they're having a virtual gaming room with 3D projection games. Sweet, yea.

[Rishard Chapoteau @ Dec 19th 2005 1:05AM]

In reply to #2

Thats the cheapest I've heard of an SXRD going for. I actually think 12k is an amazing price (not that I can afford it). The Qualia which also had an SXRD went for about 27k. There are projectors that go for over 50k. If you had seen them you would understand why.

[Carlton Bale @ Dec 19th 2005 1:05AM]

These absolutely will be available in the US. They are being announced because of the CEDIA show in Indianapolis this weekend. It's the best home theater specific show on the planet. A 1080p projector for $12,500 is a great price compared to anything else on the market.

Marcos: Are you sure you saw the VPL-HS60? They are not available yet. However, the case is identical to the VPL-HS50. I know, I have one in my basement.

[Sony Fan @ Dec 19th 2005 1:05AM]

It doesn't have a built in DVD player and surround sound system. Not as good as Epson EMP-TWD1... http://www.epson.co.uk/products/video_projectors/EMP-TWD1.htm

[Mike Down @ Dec 19th 2005 1:05AM]

Hmm, I wonder what DLP has to show at CEDIA. I bet its gonna kick Sony's projectors.

[TheGuyNextDoor @ Dec 19th 2005 1:05AM]

#6: I'd rather it didn't have anything "built-in", as it would add to the bulk, add to the cost, and for those who are likely to be in the market for a high quality projector - they would rather use their expensive DVD player as source. Also, if you mount the epson on the ceiling, that isn't going to help you get DVD's in and out!

#7: I wouldn't count on it.

Good on Sony's electronics division for putting out some legitimately decent products again. They seem to be on a roll, with their recent TV ranges etc.