Epson Reaches New Heights with $5,000 Laser Projector

Epson today announced the availability of a new three-chip LCD projector that combines improved pixel-shifting with a new multi-array laser design and refined video processing algorithms to deliver better 4K performance than previous models without sacrificing picture brightness.

Hailed as the company's most advanced home theater projector to date, the new Pro Cinema LS12000 4K PRO-UHD ($4,999) has a rated color/white brightness of 2,700 lumens and supports refresh rates up to 120 frames per second (fps), with frame interpolation for lower frame rates, and 10-bit high dynamic range (HDR) processing for content encoded in the HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) formats.

The projector is described as bright enough for use in rooms with ambient light and uses real-time HDR curve adjustment with 16 steps of control for fine-tuning HDR performance regardless of content. To further improve 4K gaming at 120 fps, input lag times are pegged at below 20 ms.

A new digitally controlled Precision Shift Glass Plate refracts pixel light to display a 3840 x 2160 image described as “exceptionally sharp and clear” with improved color accuracy, more natural skin tones, and better gradation, according to Epson. The picture refinements are attributed to the company’s new 36-bit ZX Picture Processor, which handles color, contrast, HDR frame interpolation, and resolution enhancement in real time.

The projector supports 4K 4:4:4 60Hz chroma sampling at 12 bits and provides HDMI 2.1/ HDCP 2.3-compatible ports, one of which supports enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC).

Epson says its 3LCD design, which uses three LCD chips to display 100 percent of the RGB color signal for every frame, makes possible “outstanding color gamut while maintaining excellent brightness without any rainbowing or color brightness issues.”

The projector includes ISF-certified calibration tools and is covered by a three-year limited warranty. Epson also offers an anamorphic lens option. For more information, visit epson.com.

X