Audio Video News

Affordable high-end imaging is going to the next level, thanks to a partnership between Runco International and Texas Instruments.

On June 20, the Union City, CA-based video pioneer began shipping its Reflection Series CL-510 and CL-510LT (long throw) projectors. Built "from the ground up" around Texas Instruments' widescreen-format "Matterhorn" DLP chipset, Runco's 510 series projectors deliver 1024 x 576 resolution. The CL-510 has a suggested retail price of $5,999; the long throw version is a grand more.

Runco was the first company to publicly demonstrate a projector based on the Matterhorn chipset at Home Entertainment Expo earlier this month. A pre-show tour group of journalists was duly impressed by the 510 at a June 4 demo at the Runco factory. The new projectors exploit the Matterhorn's enhanced HD2 performance by harnessing it to Runco's "GEN 3" optical projection technology and sophisticated color-balancing system. The 16x9 format is said to be "fully optimized for high-end widescreen video reproduction, including DVD playback and international wide-aspect standards."

Runco's CL-510/CL-510LT features a sophisticated new color balancing system that yields superior gray scale tracking, including superb black level. The projectors also offer high light output, "permitting serious viewing within a range of light environments" without compromising black level or subtle shadow details. For ease of installation, both models permit a variety of throw distances, and can be calibrated and operated with an included discrete infrared-remote control. The projectors also feature a full-command RS-232 interface for use with computers or touch-screen media controllers.

"We're flattered that TI chose to partner with Runco on this important home-theater advance," said Runco CEO Sam Runco. "This new DLP technology helps us to achieve new levels of performance in several key areas, while still keeping genuine high-end imaging accessible to a wide range of potential owners."