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Sony VPL-FHZ55 Laser 3LCD Projector Review

Posted on February 4, 2014 by Mike Cherichetti
This Sony laser projector was one of the most talked about this year at the trade shows. Sony produces excellent color, from a long life laser engine.

Specs Preview

Sony VPL-FHZ55 Specs
Price 4460
Technology 3LCD
Native Resolution 1920x1200
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim) 4000
Contrast 8000:1
Zoom Lens Ratio 1.6:1
Lens Shift Yes
Lamp Life 20000 hours
Weight 25
Warranty 5 years Parts and Labor on projector, 12,000 hours on lamp

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CLICK HERE for the full-length video summary of the Sony FHZ55 projector review.

CLICK HERE for the shorter video overview.

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Overview of the VPL-FHZ55

The Sony VPL-FHZ55 is a high brightness (4000 lumen rating), high resolution (WUXGA - 1920 X 1200) laser light source LCD projector that is targeted for permanent installation use in a larger venue or house of worship.  The VPL-FHZ55 uses a blue laser through a spinning phosphor wheel to create white light, which is then sent through a 3LCD system similar to lamp-based LCD projectors.  The projector also features great flexibility in installation.  It can be placed at any angle, on its side or even upside down, has both vertical and horizontal lens shift and has edge blending for use with an additional projector to create a very wide image.

The FHZ55 also features a constant brightness mode that helps it maintain virtually the same brightness level throughout its 20,000 life by driving the projector at a reduced light output.  It also has an automatic brightness setting which adjusts the output level depending on the brightness of the displayed image.  Finally, the VPL-FHZ55 has a complete set of connection options for a PC, Mac and other video sources, including the traditional VGA cable, DVI-D, HDMI, 5-BNC component video, S-video, and composite video.

The VPL-FHZ55 is network connectable via its LAN port, allowing for control of one or more networked projectors, as well as monitoring the projector’s status, scheduled maintenance and problem notification remotely.  For medical school training and medical imaging presentations, Sony has included a DICOM simulation mode.  This is used to provide a clearer picture of X-ray images (see details in the Special Features section).

We wish to thank Epson America for sponsoring this year's Best Classroom Projectors report, in which this projector is considered.

Highlights

  • Very Good Brightness – 4000 lumen rating
  • 20,000 hour projected life of light source
  • Energy-saving projection modes
  • Flexibility of installation – Vertical and horizontal lens shift, plus the ability to be placed at any angle
  • DICOM medical imaging simulation mode
  • Rapid Power up and nearly instant shut off

This projector review is included in our 2014-2015 Best Classroom Projectors Report, which is sponsored by Epson America.

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