Epson is has announced the introduction of a new “flagship” home theater projectors specifically to maximize viewer benefits of 1080p (1,920 x 1,080) resolution video sources. Epson have always made a point of developing and manufacturing the technologies built into their projectors and the Powerlite Pro Cinema 1080 Home Theater Projector is no exception.

3LCD Technology

Probably the biggest feature of the PowerlLite Pro Cinema 1080 is the use of 3LCD projection technology. 3LCD technology was initialted in 1995 and adopted by numerous front projector manufacturers (Fujitsu, Hitachi, Panasonic, Sanyo and Sony) for its compactness and image quality.

3LCD is essentially an active-matrix, HTPS (high-temperature polysilicon) LCD projection technology. As can be seen in the diagram, an ultra-high-pressure mercury lamp projects light through three different dichromic mirrors, which divide the light into red, green and blue light (with different wavelengths). Each color passes through its own small (from 0.73 inches) microdisplay LCD panel creating an image in that color. A prism merges the three different color images back into a single full color image for display. The small image from the microdisplays is expanded by the projector lens.

Using microdisplays provides manufacturers with a projection solution for increasing resolution while maintaining compactness. 3LCD technology inherits sharp images, brightness and excellent color reproduction from its active matrix technology. Additionally, the HTPS technology produces deeper blacks and higher contrast ratios.

ISF Certification

Of note, is the Epson PowerLite Pro Cinema 1080’s ISF certification of meeting the the home theater industry’s highest video and calibration standards.

1080Perfect Video Processor

Epson are using their own 1080Perfect Video Processor technology which they state is optimized for reproducing images without noise and artifacts while maintaining video signal integrity.

Absolute Black technology

Epson are advertising very high contrast ratios of 12,000:1 attributable to their “Absolute Black” technology.

User Reviews and Price Comparisons

Home Cinema 1080 Projector

Epson PowerLite Pro Cinema 1080 Projector Ceiling Mount Kit

Further Reading

Reviews by Presentation Technology Reviews of other Epson projectors are available.

Epson Announces High End Home Theater Projectors PowerLite Pro Cinema 810 and 810 HQV

Epson PowerLite 6100i Multimedia Projector Review

Projection Screen Selection Guide

Tips for Extending Projector Lamp Life

Guide to Replacement Projector Lamps and Bulbs

Practical Home Theater: A Guide to Video and Audio Systems (2007 Edition)

Home Theaters and Electronic Houses