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SIM2's PRO5DL HD projector to beam Italian operas to LA / NYC
It's opera season once more, and this time we've got Italy's own SIM2 getting involved. The company famous for engineering remarkably sexy (and incredibly expensive) projectors has just announced that its DLP-based PRO5DL flagship Digital Cinema projector will be used to show audiences in LA and NYC live broadcasts of the La Scala Opera season. The transmissions will be beamed from the La Scala Operahouse in Milan to the Beverly Hills Laemmle Theater and Miller Theater at Columbia University in New York, and the images will be displayed on 28-foot wide screens. We're not sure how costly a ticket is, but it's sure to be substantially lower than a round trip ticket to Italy.
Panasonic brings PT-AE3000E 1080p projector to rest of the world
Panny's delightful PT-AE3000 has been trotting around on US soil for a small while, but it's just now making its official debut on the international level. The 1080p PT-AE3000E, which features a 60,000:1 contrast ratio and 1,600 lumens, has been loosed for consumers in Europe and Asia to snag, but it'll run you around $4,568 in greenbacks. A new used beater car, or a new projector? Oh, the decisions life forces upon us.[Via AboutProjectors]
Mitsubishi's 1080p HC7000 HD projector reviewed: it's a keeper
Mitsubishi's HC7000 1080p projector just started leaving the docks not too, too long ago, and now the kind folks over at BigPictureBigSound have published a thorough review after spending a decent bit of time with it. Installation and setup was said to be "a simple affair," and one of the first things they noticed upon firing it up was just how quiet it was while operating. In fact, critics deemed it the quietest projector they had tested in this price range. Testers fired up an upscaled DVD after calibration procedures were done, and what they saw was "perfectly acceptable," with black levels being ultra black and color being "vibrant and very natural." Blu-ray Disc and HDTV content were even more stunning, and overall, only minor niggles ("remote backlight shuts off too quickly," for instance) were mentioned. In case you couldn't guess, critics deemed this one "a keeper," and to sweeten things up, the street price on this puppy is a far cry from its original MSRP. Mmm, price drops.[Via AboutProjectors]
Epson introduces 1080p EH-TW3000 projector
Epson's EH-TW3000 isn't much to look at, but we all know it's the innards that count. The 1080p beamer sports the company's 3LCD technology, a 20,000:1 contrast ratio, 2,000 ANSI lumens, a 10-bit video processing engine, whisper quiet design, twin HDMI 1.3 inputs and a 3-year warranty. In other words, it's housing everything you need to make your movies look great, but it'll cost you a stiff €1,614 ($2,084) in order to bring one home.[Via AboutProjectors]
SIM2 launches Ethernet-packin' C3X LUMIS HOST 1080p projector
Around this time last year, SIM2 was busy busting wallets with its $32k C3X. This year, we've got a revamped version coming in at an even higher price point: the network-friendly C3X LUMIS HOST. The 1080p beamer packs a 3-chip DLP (DarkChip4) engine, a 35,000:1 contrast ratio, 3,000 ANSI lumens, DynamicBlack technology and IR / Ethernet / RS-232 control ports. The standout feature, however, is SIM2's own proprietary three-line optical-digital High-Definition Optical Signal Transfer (H.O.S.T.) system, which allows two of these beasts to be connected over distances of up to 750-feet. Sadly, this unit will only find homes with those with copious quantities of disposable income, as it starts at $36,495 and goes higher when throwing in a T3 extra-long throw lens.[Via CyberTheater]
JVC reveals limited edition white DLA-HD750 1080p projector
Clearly, just one hue for JVC's DLA-HD750 1080p projector wasn't enough, but the outfit's making darn sure that few people ever see the alternative color. Just 200 of the all white DLA-HD750-W models will ever be released, and so far as we can tell, they'll all be up for grabs in Japan. As for specs, you can expect a delightful Full HD native resolution, 50,000:1 contrast ratio, 900 lumens, twin HDMI ports, VGA / S-Video / composite inputs and a ¥756,000 ($7,940) sticker. What? You didn't expect such a rare beast to be a bargain, did you?[Via AboutProjectors]
Mitsubishi's HC6500 HD projector reviewed: a serious contender
Mitsubishi's 1080p HC6500 has been shipping for just over a month now, but if you've been holding off from unloading $2,500 until you saw a bona fide review, you can finally have a peek and move on with life. CNET was able to wrap its retinas around the expansive image beamed out of this sexy piece of front-projection goodness, and overall, it had incredibly positive things to say. For instance, the deep blacks were applauded, skin tones were "natural," noise wasn't an issue at all and the input selection was quite stout. The only real rubs critics had were that it wasn't perfectly calibrated out of the box and the fact that it's up against some stiff competition -- neither of which are particularly "negative" traits. The bottom line? It's an "excellent all-round performer for the money," or in other words, you can finally commence with that trigger pulling.
Cineversum intros $6,500 BlackWing One 1080p projector
If the BlackWing Three was just a touch too rich for your blood, yet you dug what Cineversum had going on, have a look at this. The BlackWing One 1080p digital video projector relies on three 0.6-inch LCoS panels (all with a 1,920 x 1,080 native resolution, obviously) and comes pre-calibrated for optimal performance right out of the box. Additionally, it features a 15,000:1 contrast ratio, 1,400 ANSI lumens, two HDMI 1.3 sockets, an RS-232 control port and a "futuristic deep metallic-black ABS plastic chassis" designed by France's own Antoine Béon. The first batch is scheduled to hit North America in mid-December for $6,500 apiece, but those up for spending more can have their unit splashed with a custom color.
Barco ships mammoth DP-1200 DLP 2k projector
Let's get one thing straight: Barco's DP-1200 isn't meant for any of those "amateur" home cinemas. But then again, you could probably piece that together on your own after digesting the 205-pound weight specification. This digital cinema beamer packs a 0.98-inch DLP Cinema chip, 2,000:1 contrast ratio, twin DVI / SMPTE 292M inputs and a drool-worthy 2,048 x 1,080 native resolution. Unfortunately, Barco's not releasing a retail price to the public, but those who aren't afraid of gigantic numbers can certainly phone up a dealer to get the ball rolling.[Via AboutProjectors]
Canon's WUXGA REALiS WUX10 LCoS projector notches December ship date
We know, there are an uncomfortable amount of capital letters in that headline, but Canon's really looking to get your attention with this one. The planet's very first WUXGA (1,920 x 1,200) LCoS projector was originally expected to be available sometime this fall, but it looks as if those in Japan will be forced to wait until "early December" to indulge. It's probably not a huge deal though, 'cause we're certain you needed another couple of months to cover that ¥1.5 million ($14,823) asking price. As for American availability? Not a clue, but we hear importing isn't too much trouble.[Via AboutProjectors]
Samsung's SP-A900, SP-D400 and SP-L300 projectors make the scene in Korea
Samsung Korea has just dropped the dime on three new projectors. No word yet on pricing or a release date, but there are a few tantalizing details. For high definition video buffs, the SP-A900 offers full HD resolution, a contrast ratio of 12,000:1, Texas Instruments DarkChip4 chipset and 1,000 lumens brightness. The SP-D400 comes complete with a 3,000:1 contrast ratio and 4000 lumens brightness. As for the SP-L300, you get a 3LCD data projector with 3000 lumens brightness and an onboard speaker. Along with some swank design, all three of these projectors feature HDMI input.
Mitsubishi now shipping HC6500 / HC7000 HD projectors
Mitsubishi's HC6500 / HC7000 projectors got official in late August, and now it's time to pay up if you've been eying either one. Both of the 1080p beamers are shipping to those with the requisite coin, and speaking of, neither is particularly cheap. The latter checks in at $3,995, which buys you a 72,000:1 contrast ratio and 1,000 ANSI lumens; the former demands a little less at $2,495 and offers up a 15,000:1 contrast ratio and 1,200 ANSI lumens. Hit up your nearest Mitsu Diamond dealer to set up a preview session (and talk 'em down from MSRP, obviously).[Via AboutProjectors]
JVC shows off 8k x 4k D-ILA projector, asks when SHV is dropping by
Think 4k x 2k is intense? Get a load of this. At CEATEC 2008, JVC is once again proving its mastery of the projector art form by showcasing a somewhat ridiculous 8k x 4k beamer. The prototype device boasts a native resolution of 8,192 x 4,320 and packs a dynamic contrast ratio of 1,100,000:1. In case you couldn't guess, its purpose is to display Super High Vision material in all of its natural glory, though only time will tell when that content (and this machine) are widely available to enjoy.[Via AboutProjectors]
Panasonic's TH-AE3000 1080p projector heads to Japan
Funny that Panasonic's TH-AE3000 was actually loosed here in the States first (under the PT-AE3000 label), huh? Nevertheless, those in Japan lookin' for some of that 1080p PJ action can get their desires satisfied this November when it ships for around ¥436,000 ($4,152).[Via AkihabaraNews]
Dell quietly introduces 7609WU DLP WUXGA projector
Just a day after rolling out its smallest SVGA projector of all time, Dell has quietly slid a new home cinema beamer into its accessories lineup. The 7609WU features a native 1,920 x 1,200 (WUXGA) resolution, DLP / BrilliantColor technology, 3,850 ANSI lumens, a 2,700:1 contrast ratio, twin stereo speakers, a lamp good for around 2,500 hours and a whole slew of ports including VGA (x2), component, S-Video, USB, RJ-45 and HDMI (x2). It'll set you back a stiff $4,999, but just think, you'll never have to spend another cent at the local Cineplex.[Via Electronista]
JVC issues revised specifications, new details on D-ILA HD projectors
JVC has pushed out a release today clarifying some of the claims it made back at CEDIA 2008, and by and large, it's things that prospective buyers will want to hear. The company introduced an HD foursome of projectors in Denver earlier this month, but apparently, some of the specifications it included weren't, shall we say, final. Looking specifically at contrast ratio, we see the DLA-HD750 and DLA-HD20 jumping from 30,000:1 to 50,000:1, the DLA-RS10 going from 17,000:1 to 32,000:1 and the DLA-HD350 doubling up from 15,000:1 to 30,000:1. Also of note, JVC is now highlighting the 16-step fixed aperture in the DLA-HD750 and DLA-RS20 that "helps eliminate extraneous light that can reduce contrast levels and allows adjustment of brightness to suit user preferences." As for updated prices, you can expect to pay around $6,000 for the DLA-HD350, while the DLA-HD750, DLA-RS10 and DLA-RS20 come in at $8,000, $6,000 and $8,000 in order of mention.
Sanyo's 120Hz PLV-Z3000 1080p projector: $3,295 for USers
Thanks to Sanyo's quick-fingered Japanese branch, you already know the basics on the PLV-Z3000. For those that missed out, it's being hailed as the industry's very first 5:5 pull down beamer with a 120Hz Full HD panel. Furthermore, it boasts a 65,000:1 contrast ratio, TopazReal HD 3D color management technology, a pair of HDMI 1.3 inputs and 1,200 ANSI lumens. The best news here is the US price -- the converted yen amount is actually a fair bit higher than what Sanyo plans on charging in greenbacks, though $3,295 will still be tough to part with come December.
Leica reveals Pradovit D-1200 DLP HD projector
Whoa, Leica -- what got into you of late? Introducing three new cameras at once just not good enough? Evidently not, as the outfit better known for its retro-styled snappers has just produced an all new high-def projector, the 7.5-pound Pradovit D-1200. Taking a hint from projectiondesign's, um, design cues, this DLP beamer boasts a native 1,920 x 1,200 resolution, 1,400 ANSI lumens, a 2,500:1 contrast ratio and a VARIO-ELMARIT-P f/2.8-3.1/33-42 mm high-speed lens. You'll also find a 220-watt FusionPlus VIDI UHP lamp from Philips which is said to be good for around 3,000 hours, and as for ports, there's component, HDMI 1.3, DVI, composite, S-Video, VGA and Ethernet jacks. Mum's the word on a price, but it'll be available for those with thick wallets this November.[Via LetsGoDigital]
Epson's PowerLite Home Cinema 6500 UB quietly comes to light
We actually spotted the PowerLite Home Cinema 6500 UB at CEDIA (see it there in the corner?), but given that Epson didn't make a peep about it, we didn't pay it too much mind. After all, that Pro Cinema 7500 UB was what was most interesting to us (and Epson, evidently). Nevertheless, the 1080p beamer is reportedly the successor to the Home Cinema 1080 UB, and while it should perform a lot like the aforesaid 7500 UB, it does arrive sans a mount and with no extra lamp. Still, you will find 1,600 ANSI lumens and a Silicon Optix Reon-VX video processor, and if that's good enough for you, it'll be available this December for around $4,000.[Via AboutProjectors]
Sony brings 1080p BRAVIA VPL-VW80 SXRD projector to Europe
While we were just able to take a look at Sony's BRAVIA VPL-VW70 SXRD at CEDIA, it appears that the company is showing Europe a little love with the awfully similar VPL-VW80. The Full HD beamer includes High Frame Rate SXRD panels, a 100Hz Motionflow Dark Frame Insertion system, the BRAVIA ENGINE 2 processing tech and a 2.5-millisecond response time. You'll also find a 60,000:1 contrast ratio, Advanced Iris 2, electronic panel alignment, two HDMI connectors and a 1.6x motorized zoom lens. Unfortunately, there's no mention of a price and / or release date, but we'll go way out on a limb here and suggest you start saving up immediately.[Via AboutProjectors]
