Epson is making 3D a little bigger -- and a lot more affordable. The company just announced five new projectors that can deliver theater-like 2D and 3D images, starting at $1599.99.
All five of the new projectors use full HD, active shutter 3D, featuring a 1080p resolution and Bright 3D Drive technology. The latter promises to push the panels to 480Hz, which is double the image refresh rate of 240Hz panels (of course!). Other features include Epson's 3LCD technology, five color modes in 2D, and two color modes in 3D. These new options also have split-screen capabilities in 2D mode, which means you can watch two images at once. If you're really into multitasking, you can use this function to watch TV and surf the web simultaneously.
Other common features include Epson's exclusive 230W E-TORL (Epson Twin Optics Reflection Lamp), which boasts high brightness and up to 6000 hours of lamp life. Each new model also offers a host of connection options, including two HDMI inputs, as well as component and composite video, VGA, RCA audio and USB connections.
That sub-$1600 starting price belongs to the Home Cinema 3010, with the wireless 3010e coming in at $1799.99. Both offer big-screen 3D viewing, with 2,200 lumens of color and white light output, a contrast ratio up to 40,000:1, and two built-in 10-watt speakers.
The 3010 also offers instant 3D viewing out of the box, via two pairs of 3D glasses. The 3010e does not come with glasses, but offers a little wiggle room on the install. Instead of worrying about wires, this model uses the WirelessHD standard to send uncompressed high-definition video over short distances to the projector.
Epson says that the Home Cinema 3010 and 3010e will start shipping in October 2011.
In November, Epson will start shipping the Home Cinema 5010 and 5010e, as well as the PowerLite Pro Cinema 6010. All of these models boast 2,400 lumens of color and white light output, with Epson rating the contrast ratio up to 200,000:1.
Other standard features on these three include Epson's Super Resolution and FineFrame technologies, which promises a smoother, sharper 2D image. There's also a cinema filter feature, the Fujinon OptiCinema lens (2.1 zoom ratio), and a 2D to 3D conversion on each.
The Home Cinema 5010e model has the same wireless features mentioned above. However, both the 5010 and 5010e do not come with 3D glasses.
The Pro Cinema 6010 does come packing two pairs of 3D glasses and a wealth of other features. Some of those extras include two anamorphic lens modes, ISF calibration, color isolation, and a ceiling mount, cable cover and extra lamp for installation flexibility.
Epson says that the PowerLite Pro Cinema 6010 will be available for less than $4,000, with the Home Cinema 5010 and 5010e listed at under $3,000 and $3,500, respectively.
All five models come with access to Epson's PrivateLine priority technical support, a 90-day limited lamp warranty, and a free two-business-day exchange with Extra Care Home Service. The Home Cinema 5010/5010e and 3010/3010e have a two-year limited warranty, while the Pro Cinema 6010 includes a three-year limited warranty.
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