The LG HU915QB is an ultra-short-throw laser 4K smart DLP projector with retails for $6499. It utilizes a multi-channel laser light source that can reproduce nearly 100% of the DCI-P3 color space and deliver up to 3000 ANSI lumens of brightness.
While LG is a leading manufacturer of flat-panel TVs, they understand that some customers are looking for a bigger and more immersive image than even the largest OLED or LCD TV can provide. The HU915QB is the part of LG CineBeam projector lineup and is the flagship UST model in their assortment. The CineBeam series of projectors are designed to make front projection more accessible and appealing to a wider range of consumers.
Since this model is targeted at people looking for a TV replacement so it includes a very good sound system and all the smart features you would find in one of LG’s smart flat-panel TVs. The HU915QB uses the latest version of LG’s WebOS, which is what is found in their latest flat-panel TVs. This feature makes the projector very smart, so you have all the apps and capabilities also found in a Smart TV. It is nice that WebOS supports Netflix, the app is not available on many smart projectors.
It also includes Google Assistant, which allows you to control not only the projector, but a wide variety of compatible smart home devices, like your lights, or blinds, using only your voice.
The price point of the HU915QB is higher than most Laser TVs but its picture quality, user interface, and build quality make it worth its premium price.
The HU915QB has a 3-channel (RBB) laser light source which increases the projector's color gamut. This system also eliminates the need for a spinning phosphor wheel reducing/eliminating the rainbow effect that is common on many DLP projectors. Its Laser-light source is rated to deliver up to 20,000 hours of nearly maintenance-free operation.
The HU915QB is equipped with the larger 0.66-inch Digital Micromirror Device (DMD). This Digital Light Processing (DLP) chip can deliver higher native contrast and a sharper image than the smaller 0.47-inch DMD chip used in many 4K UHD DLP projectors. The LG HU915QB also features Adaptive Contrast that adjusts the UST’s laser light sources to provide superb contrast for each individual scene. The larger DMD chip combined with precise laser dimming results in an impressive 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio.
The HU915QB supports both HDR10 and HLG formats and includes Dynamic HDR Tone Mapping when viewing your HDR10 content. What this feature does is automatically adjusts both the dark and bright levels to ensure the best picture and optimize the HDR performance.
LG HU915QB Specs
Price
$6499
Technology
DLP (.66” DMD)
Native Resolution
2716x1528 x 2
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim)
3000
Contrast
2,000.000;1
Zoom Lens Ratio
Fixed
Lens Shift
No
Lamp Life
20,000 hours
Weight
26.9
Warranty
1 year
The HU915QB and its brother the HU915QE are the replacement for the award-winning HU85LA. While these new models look nearly identical to the older model, there are several notable improvements. The new projector includes HDMI 2.1 inputs which support several advanced HDMI 2.1 features including ALLM (auto low latency mode), eARC (enhanced Audio Return channel) as well as bandwidth up to 24Gbps.
The HU915QB is an HGiG (HDR Gaming Interest Group) compatible product, This feature is designed to improve the HDR gaming experience. The projector will identify itself as an HGiG-compatible game console or computer. The game console uses the information provided by the projector to look up the projector in a database. The gaming console and the game software then use the projector’s properties when rendering images to optimize the picture quality during HDR gameplay.
Filmmaker Mode is included on the HU915QB. This mode was created by the collaboration of filmmakers, Hollywood studios, consumer electronics companies, and the UHD Alliance. The Filmmaker Mode can be manually switched On from the projector’s setting menu, it can also be automatically activated by metadata embedded in the video bitstream. The goal of Filmmaker Mode is to display SDR and HDR content exactly as the creator intended by switching off all post-processing for a more cinematic experience on a projector or flat-panel TV.
LG HU915QB supports Calman Auto Calibration
The HU915QB, just like LG’s high-end flat-panel TV can communicate directly with the Calman calibration software to auto-calibrate itself. The software takes reading and adjusts the projector’s menu settings to quickly finetune the onscreen image. The feature can be used to calibrate the projector for both SDR and HDR.
While you still need all the equipment including the CALMAN software, a test pattern generator, and a meter, this feature dramatically reduces the time required to precisely calibrate the HU915QB.
The HU915QB chassis is black which I prefer because I think it helps the projector blend into the room. However, for those who want a white case or have a lower budget, LG also offers a nearly identical version of this projector in white called the HU915QE.
HU915QB
HU915QE
Suggested Retail Price
$6499.99
$5999.99
Brightness (ANSI Lumens)
3000lm
3700lm
Color Reproduction
100% DCI-P3
94% DCI-P3
Chassis color
Black
White
Calman AutoCal
Yes
No
FILMMAKER Mode
Yes
Yes
The white HU915QE which retails for $5999 is 700 ANSI lumens brighter than the HU915QB. It was designed for use in a family room or living room where higher brightness is helpful in overcoming moderate ambient light. To maximize brightness, LG had to sacrifice some DCI-P3 color coverage. The black HU915QB is designed for rooms with lower ambient light and LG says it can reproduce 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. The HU915QB also supports Calman Auto Calibration.
While the HU915QB commands a higher price than most Laser TVs, its outstanding picture quality and great build quality make it worth every penny. Therefore, we gave the HU915QB a Highly Recommended award.
HIGHLIGHTS
Technology: Single Chip DLP (0.66" DMD)
Light Source: 3 Channel Laser (B LD, R LD, B LD+S/P)
Display Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
Native Resolution: 2716x1528x2
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim): 3000 lumens
Light Source Lifespan: up to 20,000 Hours
Dynamic Contrast Ratio: 2,000,000.1
Nearly 100% DCI-P3 Color Reproduction
HDR10 /HLG Compatible
Dynamic HDR Tone Mapping
Wired and Wireless Networking
24Gbps HDMI 2.1 input with ALLM and eARC
LG WebOS
Auto Calibration (w/CALMAN)
Hardware
The XW7000ES is lighter and compact than the Sony 4K SXRD laser models it is replacing
The HU915QB utilizes the same clean monolithic design as other CineBeam UST projectors. At first glance except for its black chassis color, the HU915QB looks identical to the HU85LA that is replacing. While I prefer the black case, for that customer who prefers a white chassis, LG also offers the HU915QE.
The speaker system is hidden behind the grill cloth that covers the entire front of the unit. The LG HU915QB doesn’t have a control panel on the chassis. There is just a power button below the speaker along with an IR sensor.
The lens focus wheel is located on the top of the chassis behind the recessed lens under a small spring-loaded door. There are screw thread adjustable feet on the bottom, which are very, very helpful in getting a perfect alignment to the screen without using the digital keystone correction.
The unit measures approximately 27” inches wide x 14" deep x 5" high and weighs around 27 pounds. This is a little larger than some Laser TVs but the design maximizes the impact of the chassis size.
CONNECTIONS
The inputs and connections are all located on the rear of the unit facing the screen. There are three HDMI inputs. There are two 18Gbps HDMI 2.0b inputs and a single HDMI 2.1 input (HDMI #2) that supports up to 24Gbps which allows playback of 4K HDR content with 12bit color at up to 60FPS. This 24Gbps of bandwidth is more than enough to maximize the full capabilities of the projector. This input also supports eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) to send uncompressed multi-channel audio from the projector to a compatible sound system.
Inputs/Outputs
Amount
HDMI 2.1 (24Gbps) Inputs
1
HDMI 2.0b (18Gbps) Inputs
2
USB 2.0 Input
2
Toslink Optical Audio Out
1
RJ45 - LAN port for Network
1
The HU915QB can also control connected devices such as an A/V receiver via CEC. This is a very convenient feature because you can use a single remote instead of having to have several different remotes to control each connected device and risk losing or mixing up the remotes. Other available inputs include two USB ports, gigabit Ethernet, and optical-digital output.
The DLA-RS1100 has a simple control panel located on the rear of the chassis
On the back side of the projector is the Control Panel, as well as the inputs and connectors. The DLA-RS1100 control panel is very simple, but most people will only use the control panel for initial setup, then rely on the remote control or a home automation system for those types of functions.
DLA RS1100 Control Panel includes two 48Gbps HDMI inputs which can accept 4K@120fps signals
The inputs are also located on the rear of the chassis and they include a pair of 48Gbps HDMI 2.1 (HDCP 2.3) inputs which support 4K@120fps. There is also a 3D SYNCHRO terminal to connect the optional 3D Synchro Emitter.
For "old school" command and control, there is also a traditional serial RS-232C port (DB9 connector) along with a USB terminal used for service and firmware updates. Lastly, there is the RJ-45 jack for standard Ethernet networking and a single 12V trigger output, which can control a screen, a sled of an anamorphic lens, or motorized shades.
On either side on the lower portion of the back side are intake vents. In the center rear of the chassis are the power terminal and a replaceable/cleanable filter cover.
LENS
LG’s been utilizing versions of a Magic Remote on their projector models for years and the LG remote is a gyro-type device. While the HU915QB has a remote that is packed with buttons, most adjustments are done with just the flick of your wrist utilizing the gyro mouse technology. The internal gyro creates a faster, more precise remote-control system than traditional remotes that rely on arrow keys or a joystick for navigation.
The LG Magic Remote can control your set-top box, Blu-ray player, etc., including powering it on, and off. While you may still need to grab the set-top box or video player factory remote to access a 3rd party unit’s setup menu, the Magic Remote has all the buttons needed for day-to-day operation including power, channel, and playback control.
In the middle of the remote is a microphone button for voice control of the projector or compatible 3rd Internet of Things (IoT) device via LG ThinQ. There are also buttons to directly access popular streaming services like Disney Plus, Netflix, and Amazon Prime.
The button that looks like a gear is the Quick Setting button which takes you directly to the HU915QB’s basic settings menu. Pressing and holding the button will take you directly to the projector’s advanced picture settings.
To access apps and other entertaining services, you need to press the HOME button which literally looks like a house. Once in the projector app menu, you can select a specific input, a streaming app, the web browser, the media player, or explore the LG Content Store.
MENUS
The HU915QB is a Smart projector so it has a complex menu system, but it is well organized and easy to navigate. There are two different menus – one is for making picture adjustments and the other is for accessing content, apps, and services.
Since the HU915QB is a Smart projector, there are dozens and dozens of menu/entertainment options. The images of the menu shown in this section represent only a small number of all the sub-menus available. The goal is to show a couple of the more notable sections found in the most used sub-menus (app store, image adjustments, networking, etc.).
There is also a dedicated game menu that can be accessed when the HU915QB is set to its GAME OPTIMIZER picture mode. Game Optimizer provides optimized picture settings for various game genres including First Person Shooter (FPS), Role-playing Game (RPG), and Real-time Strategy (RTS).
You have the ability to adjust your gaming Black Stabilizer and White Stabilizer, which essentially adjust visibility to have a better quality of dark and bright scenes in-game.
The AI Game Sound feature uses artificial intelligence to automatically find the best sound settings based on the game you are playing. You can use the Game Dashboard which is a shortened menu to quickly make or check adjustments to some Game Optimizer settings on the go during gameplay.
The HU915QB also supports Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). This feature allows a gaming console or PC to send a signal to the projector, which will cause it to automatically switch to the HU715Q’s lowest latency mode for gaming and engages the GAME OPTIMIZER picture mode.
PERFORMANCE
COLOR REPRODUCTION
The HU915QB delivered good color reproduction
The HU915QB has a total of 9 preset picture modes for SDR and 7 presets for HDR. The CINEMA, FILMMAKER MODE, and both EXPERT Modes looked good out of the box. EXPERT (BRIGHT SPACE, DAYTIME) and FILMMAKER modes were the most accurate factory SDR picture modes and were nearest to my color temperature target of 6,500K.
The most accurate HDR Picture modes were the CINEMA and CINEMA HOME modes. Overall, the picture quality of the HU915QB preset picture modes will satisfy most users.
The HU915QB has a total of 9 preset picture modes for SDR and 7 presets for HDR. The CINEMA, FILMMAKER MODE, and both EXPERT Modes looked good out of the box. EXPERT (BRIGHT SPACE, DAYTIME) and FILMMAKER modes were the most accurate factory SDR picture modes and were nearest to my color temperature target of 6,500K.
The most accurate HDR Picture modes were the CINEMA and CINEMA HOME modes. Overall, the picture quality of the HU915QB preset picture modes will satisfy most users.
Pre-Calibration Color Tracking and Grayscale
We calibrated the EXPERT (DARK SPACE NIGHT) mode for SDR viewing in a room with low ambient light.
Switching between the two IRIS MODES had a noticeable impact on color temperature. When set to BrightRoom, the color temperature was 7786K while in Darkroom it was 11880K. The black levels of the HU915QB were better than most Laser TVs so we choose the BrightRoom option since it was more accurate.
Before calibration, there was too much blue and too little green, probably due to the HU915QB’s 3-channel (RBB) laser light source.
The Gamma measurement pre-calibration was very close to my target of 2.2.
Picture Mode: EXPERT (DARK SPACE NIGHT)
Color Temperature: 7786K
Average Color Tracking dE: 7.68
Average Grayscale dE: 12.87
Gamma: 2.02
Post-Calibration Color Tracking and Grayscale
We used the projector’s 2 Point White Balance Adjustment to reduce the BLUE GAIN while increasing the GREEN GAIN. The end result was outstanding grayscale measurements.
After I adjusted BRIGHTEST and CONTRAST, the gamma measured close to my target of 2.2 so I left the unit’s GAMMA setting at its default of BT.1886.
After we adjusted the white balance, the projector color tracking was very good. The HU915ES also has CMS adjustment but this COLOR UPGRADE feature was finicky so we choose not to utilize it.
Picture Mode: EXPERT (DARK SPACE NIGHT)
Color Temperature: 6546K
Average Color Tracking dE: 1.91
Average Grayscale dE: 0.84
Gamma: 2.19
We achieved a very good grayscale and color reproduction by just adjusting the projector’s white balance. The color tracking and grayscale had an average Delta E measurement below 2. Delta E, as a measure of grayscale/color accuracy, of 3 and under is considered ‘Excellent’ and imperceptible by the human eye.
I also took the time to test out the projector’s Calman Auto Calibration feature. I set up my Klein K10 meter again, plugged in my Murideo Seven G test pattern generator, and fired up my Calman software. Once the software identified the meter, pattern generator, and projector, I answered a few questions and pressed a button.
Before calibration, the EXPERT (DARKROOM_NIGHT) mode was pretty accurate, but there was too much blue energy. The Calman Auto Calibration process took less than 10 minutes to produce excellent results with a delta error average below 1. It took me about two hours to achieve the same results manually.
Utilizing the Calman AutoCal feature requires some costly equipment and software, so this feature focuses on professionals because it speeds up the calibration process. However, it reinforces that HU915QB has one of the most advanced video processors available in a modern projector.
Pre-Calibration Color Tracking and Grayscale
The HDR picture modes like the SDR modes were overly cool. We used the projector’s 2 Point White Balance Adjustment to reduce the BLUE GAIN while increasing the RED GAIN.
HDR White Balance measurements before and after 2 POINT WHITE BALANCE adjustment
The Calman AutoCal also gives you the option to do an HDR calibration as well. The Calman measurements looked great but automatic adjustments resulted in a very dark picture because the feature precisely tracked the HDR EOTF.
This works great on a very bright flat panel TV but projectors like the HU915QB are not bright enough. I would recommend just manually adjusting Color Temperature, RGB balance, Contrast and Brightness.
BRIGHTNESS
HDR White Balance measurements before and after 2 POINT WHITE BALANCE adjustment
The LG HU915QB Laser TV has a rated brightness of 3.000 ANSI lumens. I set the projector to BRIGHTEST Mode, which is the brightest picture mode available, and then I set the ENERGY SAVINGS to Minimum (brightest lamp setting). I then took 3-4 readings about 15-20% out from the center of the screen.
LG HU915QB Brightness (BRIGHTEST Mode, Minimum Energy Saving): 3025 ANSI lumens
The HU915QB beat its brightness claim. The projector’s more accurate picture modes did reduce the projector light output but there was still more than enough brightness for viewing both SDR and HDR content on a 100″ screen in a room with some ambient light.
Brightness by SDR Picture Mode
Picture Modes
Brightness
Color Temp
Vivid
2888
12457K
Standard
2833
15464K
Cinema
2338
8821K
Sports
2915
12956K
Game Optimizer
2920
12570K
Filmmaker
2228
7300K
Brightest
3025
15118K
Expert (Bright Space)
2248
6930K
Expert (Dark Space)
2063
7786K
CONTRAST
While an LCOS-based home theater projector can deliver deep blacks, the HU915QB delivers better blacks than most DLP and many 3LCD projectors. I suspect this is because of the unit’s larger DLP (0.66” DMD) chip and its precise laser dimming.
While the HU915QB is not capable of matching the deep black levels of an LCOS-equipped Home Theater projector, its blacks were superior to most DLP projectors and Laser TVs that I have encountered. Good native contrast combined with dynamic laser dimming and adjustable iris make the HU915QB a great Laser TV for dark room viewing.
The projector delivered deeper blacks and better shadow detail than most Laser TVs
Depending on my room’s lighting condition, I paired the HU915QB with either my Screen Innovations Solo Pro 2 UST ambient light rejecting screen or my Elite Screens motorized CineWhite 100-inch Matte White screen.
The SI ALR screen material has a gain of 0.6 and it dramatically improved the black level when watching content in a room with ambient light. However, keep in mind that the increased black levels come at the expense of some screen brightness. When I was viewing content at night on in a dark room, I used my 1.1 gain matte white Elite screen. This combination produced better than average black level and shadow detail.
PICTURE QUALITY
The LG HU915QB did an excellent job upscaling HD content
Most TV shows and live broadcasts will continue to be produced in HD for several more years, so good 4K upscaling will continue to be important. LG has years of experience with upscaling, so the HU915QB did an excellent job upscaling content.
Whether I was watching 720P sports from ESPN or 1080p Blu-ray content, it all looked very good. Most 4K movies do not have enough fine detail to make the difference between watching 4K SDR and upscaled HD noticeable. In addition, quality optics combined with adjustable focus resulted in sharp detail across the entire screen.
Since the video processor used in the HU915QB is based on the system utilized in LG’s flat-panel TVs, the projector can dynamically tone map HDR10 content. This feature did a good job delivering good onscreen brightness while maintaining highlight detail. I would rate the HU915QB HDR picture quality as very good and on par with better Laser TV models.
The HU915QB produced a good-looking HDR picture
However, tone mapping (whether dynamic or not) requires the projector to compromise something (highlights, brightness, contrast, color, or black level). So, you do sacrifice some brightness when HDR Tone Mapping is engaged. Since the HU915QB was a brighter projector, overall, I still preferred viewing HDR with the setting switched on.
In addition to HDR10, the LG HU715Q also supports Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG), the HDR standard developed for live broadcast.
SOUND QUALITY
While on most Flat Panel TVs sound quality is an afterthought, LG worked hard to provide good sound performance. The front of the HU915QB cabinet holds a 2.2-channel speaker array powered by a total of 40 watts which has no problem delivering room-filling sound.
The HU915QB does a good job simulating a surround-sound experience using the unit’s integrated speakers, and Volume processing prevents unwanted loudness changes.
While we do not measure audible noise, LG says the level varied based on light output. LG stated noise can be as low as 26dB in ECO mode and as high as 30dB in HIGH BRIGHTNESS. Even with the projector set to its highest Light level, I could barely hear the unit’s fan from my sitting position during quiet scenes.
The LG HU915QB Laser TV has one of the best-sounding video displays I have ever heard. Yes, you can buy a better 3rd party sound system, but many customers used to the sound provided by most flat-panel TVs would be more than satisfied with the HU915QB audio performance.
SUMMARY
The LG HU915QB is a 4K DLP UST laser projector that retails for $6499. It utilizes a single DLP (0.66" DMD) chip to display 4K UHD resolution. Its 3-channel Laser-light engine is rated to deliver at 3,000 lumens for up to 20,000 hours, giving you several years of maintenance-free operation. This light source allows gives the HU915QB the ability to display nearly 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut.
The HU915QB uses a 3-channel laser light source to deliver 100% of the DCI P3 color gamut
The projector has above-average color reproduction right out of the box, and it is one of a few projectors with Dynamic HDR Tone mapping and HGiG. It is also equipped with a 24Gbps HDMI 2.1 input which supports eARC and ALLM.
HU915QB includes several features that help improve contrast and black level
Like all CineBeam projectors, the HU915QB was built around the WebOS operating system, which is used in many of LG's flat-panel TVs, Smart features are incorporated seamlessly, and the menus are easy to navigate and well laid out. The HU915QB is loaded with all the most popular streaming apps like Netflix, HULU, Disney+, YouTube, and Fandango Now.
The HU915QB uses LG's proven webOS operation system
Since the HU915QB was designed to replace a flat panel TV, it has all the Smart features customers have come to expect from a Smart TV. You can use the Smart remote for voice control with its built-in microphone to control basic projector features and control a wide variety of compatible Smart devices via Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
With a suggested retail price of $6499, the HU915QB with one of the more expensive Laser TV on the market but its picture quality rivals that of competitive premium models like the Samsung LSP9T and the Hisense L9G. The Samsung and Hisense models can reproduce the wider REC2020 color gamut but, the HU915QB seems to have better native contrast due to its larger DLP (0.66” DMD) chip.
The HU915QB is designed to deliver great picture quality in a dark space
For those with a smaller budget, LG has introduced a less expensive Laser TV called the HU715Q, We reviewed the HU715Q and gave it a Special Interest award because it delivered an excellent performance at just $2999 SRP.
HU915QB
HU715Q
Price
$6499
$2999
Light Source
3ch Laser (B LD, R LD, B LD+S/P)
Blue Laser Phosphor
Brightness
3000 ANSI Lumens
2500 ANSI Lumens
DLP Size
0.66” DMD
0.47” DMD
Contrast
2,000,000:1 (Dynamic)
2,000,000:1 (Dynamic)
eARC
Yes
Yes
HGiG
Yes
Yes
Adjustable Optical Focus
Yes
-
Calman AutoCal
Yes
-
Stepping up to the HU915QB adds the larger DLP chip (0.66” DMD), the brighter multi-channel laser light source, and adjustable optics. The result is better color reproduction, more brightness, higher native contrast, and a sharper image for about $2500 more.
The 3700 lumen LG HU915QE ($5999 SRP) is another option for those who desire additional brightness to overcome ambient light. This unit also retails for $500 less and it offers many of the same features as the HU915QB.
Overall, I was very pleased with the overall performance of the HU915QB. Due to its good picture quality, extensive feature set, and beautiful design, the HU915QB has been given a Projector Reviews Highly Recommended Award.
