Runco LS-1: Affordable DLP Projector Hits Shelves Next Week

  • Runco has unveiled a single-chip 1080p projector based on the DLP chip from Texas Instruments.
  • The LS-1, the latest addition to Runco’s LightStyle Series, will be available this month for $3,995 (MSRP).
  • The company claims the unit offers “exceptional color and detail,” due largely to the Digital Light Processing technology.
  • The projector also features Runco’s SuperOnyx with ConstantContrast, ViVix digital video processing, and the ISF calibration suite for adjustments based on room and lighting conditions.
  • The unit’s exterior can be customized via Runco’s FinishPalette, offering a wide range of custom prints and colors. Additionally, with a simple touch of a button users can switch from 16:9 content to 2.35:1 content, without black bars.

Panasonic Announces Full HD 3D Home Theater Projector

  • Panasonic has announced its first full HD home theater projector that also handles 3D content.
  • The PT-AE7000U features a dual core image processor and 3D IR transmitter to sync up 3D shutter glasses (sold separately).
  • Digital Trends reports: “The PT-AE7000U is also the world’s first 3D projector with 480Hz transparent LCD panels, and the unit sports a new optical engine that offers contrast ratios of up to 300,000:1, along with 2D-to-3D conversion modes that processes 2D content with 3D stylish, with five different 3D effects modes.”
  • “The PT-AE7000U’s key 3D projection technologies were developed in collaboration with Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory engineers who are heavily engaged in the authoring and mastering of 3D Blu-ray discs,” explained Panasonic’s Art Rankin in a statement. “Through this joint effort, the PT-AE7000U has been redesigned from the ground up to achieve higher basic 2D performance and is packed with unique 3D features to deliver studio-grade 3D content to the consumer.”
  • The projector is expected to hit shelves by September, although the average consumer may not be ready for the $3,499 price tag.