Sony has introduced the Bravia Projector 7, often known as the VPL-XW5100ES, and which joins the Projector 8 and 9 of their present lineup. The brand new projector replaces the VPL-XW5000ES and makes use of SXRD, Sony’s LCOS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) variant, which guarantees higher distinction ratios than the extra frequent DLP and LCD chips.
The newest Sony projector we reviewed, the VPL-VW325ES, had the most effective distinction ratio we have measured in years. It is a pretty secure assumption this new PJ will probably be even higher. The brand new Projector 7 has 2,200 claimed lumens and has a laser mild supply for probably even higher shade.
Moreover, the laser mild supply will rapidly dim with darkish scenes, probably providing much more spectacular black ranges. Not that black ranges have been a problem with SXRD projectors prior to now. Combining the robust native distinction ratio of SXRD with a fast-acting dynamic distinction because of the ramping laser the 7 ought to look nice in darkish rooms.
Brightness was, traditionally, extra of a problem with Sony projectors. Each DLP and LCD projectors, not in a position to compete with LCOS (in both Sony or JVC types) for distinction ratio, typically went for larger brightness. We have reviewed a number of projectors not too long ago with over 3,000 rated lumens. Despite the fact that they all the time measure much less, they’re nonetheless impressively vivid. The Projector 7’s 2,200 claimed lumens must be enough for the devoted residence theaters it is supposed for.
For comparability, one of many best-looking projectors I’ve reviewed not too long ago is the short-throw BenQ X500i, additionally rated for two,200 lumens however placing out an as-measured 911. With the 325ES I measured 1,136 lumens from a claimed 1,500. So if the Projector 7 has an analogous rated-to-measured ratio because the 325ES, it will likely be even brighter than the plenty-bright X500i.
By way of distinction ratio, I measured a surprising 8,327:1 on the older Sony. The BenQ X500i had probably the greatest in recent times and but it was nonetheless solely a fraction of the 325ES, at 1,990:1. The common distinction ratio for projectors we have measured at CNET in the previous few years is 854:1. Whereas the 7 will probably be dearer than both of those projectors, its distinction ratio must be impressively higher as effectively.
One characteristic within the 7 that may be a bit controversial, is the Facet Ratio Scaling Mode: “Seamlessly swap between 2.35:1 and 16:9 content material on Cinemascope screens—no lens changes wanted. The brand new Facet Scaling Mode gives higher viewing flexibility with only a faucet.” How this reads is the projector will crop content material to suit a 2.35:1 display screen. Cropping is dangerous. Do not crop. I favor a motorized lens with presets. That approach you’ll be able to watch both sort of content material in its appropriate side ratio, as giant as it may well match, assuming you’ve a 2.35:1 display screen. All it’s important to do is press a button. Even guide adjustment is okay, so long as the projector has the zoom vary for it.
No pricing as but, however the Projector 8 is $16,000 and the VPL-XW5000ES is $6,000 so it must be someplace between the 2.
