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CEDIA Expo 2012 News - Part 2

Thursday - 9 September:  Today is the first day the CEDIA trade floor is open and several companies are officially introducing new projectors and related products today.  I will be updating this blog a few times today, so check back.

JVC

JVC lead off the day with an 8am press conference where they announced a new line up of projectors for both their consumer and professional product lines.  Basically JVC has added one new model, just above their entry-level projector, and made a number of improvements to all of model across their projector line.  Below is the from the JVC press release:

JVC today announced a new, expanded line of home theater projectors that offers significant improvements in picture performance and upgraded e-shift technology, which upconverts and scales 2D content to a 4K signal. Now called e-shift2, the technology is available in seven new JVC projectors. Other performance-enhancing features include a new illumination system and a new polarizing wire grid in combination with e-shift2 for higher native contrast.

JVC’s 2013 projectors are the Procision Series DLA-X95R, DLA-X75R, DLA-X55R and DLA-X35, marketed by JVC’s Consumer AV Group, and the Reference Series DLA-RS66, DLA-RS56, DLA-RS4810, DLA-RS48 and DLA-RS46, available through JVC Professional Products Company. All are 3D-enabled and all except for the base models in each series offer e-shift2.

Introduced last year on four models, e-shift upconverts and scales 2D HD content to a 4K signal (3840 x 2160) and displays it at full 4K precision. Compared to a Full HD (1920 x 1080) image, that’s twice the horizontal and vertical resolution and four times the number of pixels, or over 8 megapixels. The result is a stunningly detailed image with minimal aliasing artifacts found in standard HD displays. This year’s upgraded e-shift2 technology, available in seven models, provides higher native contrast in combination with a new polarizing wire grid engine.

In other enhancements, new 2K to 4K scaling technology using proprietary JVC algorithms replaces a two-band filter with an eight-band filter to apply more correction to more areas of the image. This delivers a noticeable improvement with any compatible 2D signal. To optimize performance for different content, this Multiple Pixel Control offers five preset modes plus Off.

3D performance has been improved, with new circuitry and a new optical engine responsible for reduced cross talk. The result is more natural, clear and brighter images.

Another key enhancement is a new illumination system, including a new lamp and power supply, which delivers a significant improvement in brightness over the life of the lamp. In addition, the lamp warranty has been extended to one year/1,000 hours.

To provide enthusiasts with a true measure of performance, JVC has long focused on native contrast and refused to artificially enhance contrast specifications through the use of a dynamic iris.  For 2013, native contrast has been improved in most models through the use of a new polarizing wire grid, ensuring that every frame consistently and faithfully reproduces peak whites and deep blacks. The flagship DLA-X95R and DLA-RS66 offer a 130,000:1 native contrast ratio. The DLA-X75R and DLA-RS56 offer 90,000:1 native contrast, and the DLA-X55R, DLA-X35, DLA-RS4810, DLA-RS48 and DLA-RS46 offer 50,000:1 native contrast.

Other enhancements new for 2013 are:

  • New active shutter glasses for 3D viewing use RF rather than IR technology to offer more stable synchronization and extended range while avoiding possible interference with IR-controlled devices;
  • Smartphone application that allows remote control of the projectors from a smartphone or tablet ;
  • Additional lens memory settings – Ten for the DLA-X75R, DLA-X95R, DLA-RS56 and DLA-RS66 and five for the DLA-X35, DLA-X55R, DLA-RS46, DLA-RS48 and RS4810. These store custom focus, zoom and horizontal/vertical lens shift position. This allows a constant height display of 4:3, 16:9 , 2.35:1 or any other scope content without an additional anamorphic lens.

The flagship DLA-X95R and DLA-RS66 are built using hand-selected, hand-tested components and have a 130,000:1 native contrast ratio. For 3D viewing, both models come with two pairs of PK-AG3 RF 3D glasses and a PK-EM2 3D Signal Emitter.  Both projectors also have a three-year warranty.

The DLA-X75R and DLA-RS56 have a native contrast of 90,000:1.

The DLA-X95R, DLA-X75R, DLA-RS66 and DLA-RS56 feature e-shift2, upgraded light engine, full color management, ISF certification and advanced calibration functionality. In addition, they are designed to pass the 400-plus tests necessary to achieve THX® 3D Certification (pending) – a promise to consumers of the highest level of quality and performance. All JVC THX Certified Projectors include THX 2D and 3D Cinema viewing modes to provide the most accurate color reproduction available in a pre-calibrated setting, ensuring content is rendered back just as its creator intended.

The DLA-X55R, DLA-RS48 and DLA-RS4810 bring e-shift2 to a new price point and feature JVC’s Color Management System, five lens memory presets and a native contrast ratio of 50,000:1. The DLA-RS4810 adds a three year warranty.

The DLA-X35 and DLA-RS46 are 3D-enabled projectors with a 50,000:1 contrast ratio. The DLA-X35 is available with a black or white cabinet.

The new JVC D-ILA home theater projectors will be available in November 2012 at the following prices:

DLA-X95R/DLA-RS66                        $11,999

DLA-X75R/DLA-RS56                        $7,999

DLA-RS4810                                           $5,095

DLA-X55R/DLA-RS48                        $4,999

DLA-X35/DLA-RS46                           $3,499

Together with these new projectors, JVC offers new 3D accessories:  the PK-AG3 RF 3D glasses and PK-EM2 RF emitter. Both are compatible with all JVC 3D projectors, including previous models. Also available is a new spare lamp, PK-L2312U, specially designed for JVC’s 2013 models. The PK-L2210U lamp for current JVC projectors remains available.

Accessories prices are:

PK-AG3 RF 3D Glasses          $179

PK-EM2 RF Emitter                  $99

PK-L2312U Lamp                  $399

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SIM2

Projector manufacturer Sim2 has announced a new high-end 4K resolution 3-chip DLP projector (i.e., very expensive) that is described in their press release as follows:

SIM2 Multimedia is proud to announce at CEDIA EXPO 2012 our new CINEMAQUATTRO 4K DLP 3-Chip Home Cinema Projector. This powerful new model utilizes technology of Christie®, one of today’s leading display technology providers. Some of the key specifications are: three 4K (4096 x 2160) 1.38” DLP Chipsets, up to 20,000 ANSI Lumens, Triple Flash 3D Technology, SIM2 Exclusive High Contrast and Colorimetry Profiles, a user replaceable Xenon Bubble Lamp, remote monitoring and so much more.

“When SIM2 decided to embark on the 4K challenge, it was clear that we had to offer a product with performance as close as possible to a true movie theater experience,” stated Maurizio Cini President and CEO of SIM2 Multimedia. “Our collaboration with Christie assures that our Premiere Dealers will have access to the BEST 4K technology available today, and not a product that is “just” good enough because it is 4K resolution.”

“Christie is very pleased to be working with a company of SIM2’s caliber,” said Jeff Jaramillo,  Senior Director, Product Management at Christie.  “Our companies complement each other well and the combination of technical and market experience certainly yield a high performance offering that delivers a stunning 4K option for the CEDIA community.”

The CINEMAQUATTRO 4K 3-Chip Projector is offered to select SIM2 Dealers for Home Cinema Installations and will be available in Q4 2012.

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Mitsubishi

As reported in previous blogs, Mitsubishi is introducing two new DLP projectors at the CEDIA Expo.  Below is some more information from their press release:

Mitsubishi Electric Visual Solutions America, Inc. showcases two of its new home theater projectors designed make 3D home theater viewing easier and more affordable: the HC8000D and HC7900DW projectors debut at the CEDIA Home Theater Show in Indianapolis, September 5-8, 2012 in Booth #1403.

“We’ve heard that there isn’t enough 3D content in the marketplace, and that is definitely an issue,” said Wayne Kozuki, product manager, Mitsubishi Electric Visual Solutions America, Inc. “Our new projectors have an amazing 2D-to-3D conversion feature that actually turns regular 2D films into amazing 3D movies. Even old movies like The Wizard of Oz can become a 3D masterpiece, right in your own home.”

The HC7900DW and HC8000D projectors use one of the industry’s best 2D-to-3D Frame Rate Conversion technologies, resulting in a near-perfect simulation of a true 3D frame of vision. Using Mitsubishi’s own algorithms in calculating and interpolating multiple depth levels in a 2D image, this new, high-speed frame reproduction technology produces detailed, high-definition 3D images with minimum crosstalk or distortion so 3D content appears to literally jump off the screen, even in high-speed action scenes.

The HC8000D supports Mitsubishi’s proprietary 3D glasses (sold separately), but both models are compatible with Universal 3D glasses, making family viewing easy and more affordable. The projectors also allow friends to watch 3D sporting events like football games in a party atmosphere, with attendees bringing their own 3D glasses.

“With the HC8000 and the HC7900, we solved two of the biggest issues with 3D home theater,” added Kozuki. “Now there are practically unlimited 3D movies available, and you can invite your friends over to watch them in 3D without a huge investment.”

Mitsubishi’s HC8000D boasts an impressive 330,000:1 contrast ratio for rich details, even in darkly-lit movies or film noir and 1300 lumens of brightness, making it a great option for gaming. Its extra-long lamp life, up to 5000* hours in low mode, can provide years of movie, television and gaming enjoyment, depending on usage.

The new HC7900DW projector features 150,000:1 contrast ratio, 1500 lumens of brightness and up to 5000* hours of lamp life as well. It comes in a white cabinet, and when installed, can easily match the aesthetics of a white ceiling.

Both projectors use Texas Instruments’ latest DLP® .065-inch DMD chip to create exciting, vibrant 2D and 3D images in full high-definition, 1080P resolution. An ultra-hushed fan in each creates 23 dBa in low mode, so viewers only hear quiet dialogue or soft music during a movie or television show, not an annoying fan hum.

Two of the latest HDMI™ version 1.4 inputs in each projector support 3D signals as well as provide easy set-up options for multiple video inputs. The projectors’ RS232 support offers plug-and-play connectivity for easy integration with third-party remote operations and control in higher-end installations.

The HC8000D will be available through authorized Mitsubishi Electric distributors and dealers and the HC7900DW through dealers and on the Internet, just in time for the year-end holiday gift giving season. Both will be competitively priced.

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RUNCO

Runco is another high-end projector manufacturer that has announced several new projectors at the CEDIA Expo.  The following information is from their press release:

Runco International, the leading brand in luxury display solutions and part of the global leader in specialty display solutions Planar Systems, Inc., (NASDAQ: PLNR), is launching an extraordinary new family of projection systems, the XtremeProjection™ series, starting with three innovative models: the X-200i, X-400d, and X-450d.

Designed specifically for the custom installer who specializes in high-end theaters and appreciates craftsmanship and video quality, the XtremeProjection Series projector fills maximum screen sizes from 171 to 235 inches wide—the equivalent of up to a 270-inch diagonal video image—and rely on a combination of state-of-the-art DLP-based SuperOnyx™ technology and proprietary electronics, processing, and optics to deliver stunning images from both 2D and 3D sources.

“Runco’s legacy in incomparable visual experiences continues with this new XtremeProjection series,” said Jennifer Davis, vice president of marketing for Runco. “These new systems demonstrate our commitment to the success of dealers and the delight of their clients, with exceptional video performance, beautiful 3D performance, and the features and options that make Runco a perfect fit for any theater design, all at a great price.”

The XtremeProjection series projectors come equipped with three pairs of active 3D glasses, and rely on frame sequential 3D technology to ensure that users can enjoy 2D and 3D content on the same screen, with full 1080p HD resolution delivered to both eyes.

All three new projectors in the lineup are also available with Runco’s exclusive, award-winning CineWide™ and CineWide with AutoScope™ lens technology option. The first and leading 2.35:1 projection solution, CineWide has since been adopted industry wide to deliver a stunning recreation of the theatrical experience with 2.35:1 aspect ratio movies.

In addition to supporting all video aspect ratios without any loss of image integrity, these new XtremeProjection Series projectors excel at enhancing even the most problematic digital and analog signals to near-high-definition quality, without adversely affecting the quality of native HD content. And as with all Runco projectors, the XtremeProjection Series was designed with integration options and installation flexibility in mind. With primary lens options, Runco authorized dealers can design theaters with throw distances from 0.77:1 to 6.76:1.

As for model specifics, the X-200i is a single-chip DLP projector that, uncalibrated, measures 1430 ANSI lumens and, when calibrated to Runco’s CSMS™ specifications, achieves a light output of 50 Foot-Lamberts (fL). The X-400d shines over 2100 ANSI lumens (uncalibrated), with a contrast ratio of over 10000:1, and can deliver 52 fL of brightness when calibrated. The X-450d boasts a brightness of over 3780 ANSI lumens, or a stunning 94 fL of brightness when calibrated to CSMS standards.

While the X-200i features integrated processing, the X-400d and X-450d also ship with Runco’s new Dimension Digital Controller™ (DC-300), which has been engineered to enhance 3D performance. This 2U outboard controller provides a level of flexibility and control not commonly found in integrated processors, and provides Runco installers with a full suite of calibration tools necessary to achieve a perfect picture, no matter the viewing environment. The DC-300 offers advanced connectivity options, as well as installation flexibility. With a single-wire connection from the processor to the projector, this rack mounted component is the ideal solution for retrofit installations. All three models incorporate the ISF™ (Imaging Science Foundation) calibration suite for optimal performance, including ISF Day and ISF Night presets for the ultimate video performance any time of day.

The sleek XtremeProjection Series chassis can also be customized with Runco’s ColourPalette™ design options, which provide Runco customers with a unique level of personalization and customization that reflects their own individual styles and décors. ColourPalette aids the integrator in crafting a truly one-of-a-kind design-focused alternative to the ubiquitous, commodity display products that rarely aligned with the aesthetic of the luxury home.

This new series will begin shipping in September 2012, with retail prices starting at $14,995 for the X-200i. The X-400d is $34,995 and X-450d is $39,995, including the DC-300. Additional costs apply for lens and CineWide options. As with all Runco projectors, all three XtremeProjection Series models feature a two-year RuncoCare™ standard warranty. Runco RedCarpet™ and PremierCare™ extended service options are also available. The new Runco XtremeProjection Series projectors are available exclusively through Runco’s authorized dealer network.

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Check back for tomorrow's report (i.e., Part 3)

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