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Jvc Dla-Hd100 Lcos Projector Revealed

Technabob — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 14:55:50 +0000

If you’re a regular reader of Technabob, you probably know that I’m a big fan of LCOS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) based projectors. In terms of image quality, contrast and lack of visible pixel structure, they’re second only to good old CRTs.

At this week’s IFA show in Berlin, JVC revealed their latest entry into the LCOS arena (JVC uses the brand name “D-ILA), the DLA-HD100. The new projector replaces the popular DLA-HD1 model which came before it. The HD100 significantly improves upon the contrast of the prior model, with JVC claiming a 30,000 to 1 ratio. They’ve also added motorized zoom and focus capabilities, which the HD1 didn’t have.

JVC also has improved the color rendition of the projector over prior models and added HDMI 1.3 Deep Color support too. As was the case with the HD1 before it, the HD100 features Full HD 1920×1080 (1080p) native resolution, for the sharpest images possible.

The DLA-HD100 will be released worldwide this November. Pricing hasn’t yet been finalized, but if you’re thinking about buying a front projector, you might want to wait a couple of months.

[via AV Watch]

Sony Vpl-Aw10 and Vpl-Aw15 Projectors From $1000

Technabob — Wed, 28 Mar 2007 17:56:32 +0000

Sony today announced a new series of agressively-priced LCD front projectors, the Bravia VPL-AW10 ($1000 MSRP) and VPL-AW15 ($1300 MSRP).

Both projectors feature a widescreen 3-LCD panel with 720p native resolution, and a bright 165-watt UHP lamp. They both include versions of Sony’s well-reviewed advanced iris system, providing the AW10 with a 6000:1 contrast ratio and a 12,000:1 contrast ratio for the AW15. The more expensive of the two models also includes lens shift capabilities to provide installation flexibility. They’re also designed for quiet operation with a low noise fan mode that can be as quiet as 20dB.

If you’re looking to set up a really big screen home theater set up (say between 80 and 200 inches diagonal,) and don’t have a lot of money to invest, this looks like it could be a great way to get into the game. Sure, the projector doesn’t have the full 1920×1080 resolution of today’s more expensive models, but it is capable of handling 720p, 1080i and 1080p sources, so you’ll be able to enjoy all high definition content regardless. Both projectors are both expected to start shipping this June.

[Press Release]

Runco Vx: the First Ever Thx Certified Projectors

Technabob — Sat, 03 Feb 2007 21:53:57 +0000

Runco, know for producing high-end home theater gear has announced that they have started shipping the first ever projectors to pass THX certification.

The Runco VX (Video Extreme) series of DLP front projectors come in a number of models designed to handle a variety of different installation needs, but all require a sizeable investment:

VX-2000d: Single Chip DLP / 1280×1080 /220W UHP Lamp ($16,995)
VX-6000d: Single Chip DLP / 1920×1080 / 220W UHP Lamp ($35,995)
VX-22d: Three Chip DLP / 1920×1080 /300W Lamp ($44,995)
VX-44d: Three Chip DLP / 1920×1080 /1000W Xenon Lamp ($79,995)
VX-55d: Three Chip DLP / 1920×1080 /1200W Xenon Lamp ($114,995)

All of the VX projectors come with Runco’s DHD controller, which now offers HDMI input capability. The higher end models feature interchangeable lenses and all models can be upgraded with Runco’s CineWide technology allow for full 2:35 to 1 CinemaScope movies to be shown in their original format without black bars.

The THX Certified Display program evaluates the quality of display color, luminence, contrast, uniformity, resolution, video processing quality among other tests. Only displays which pass these rigorous tests are awarded the THX badge. Now if only I could afford one.

[via Home Toys vis Engadget HD]