Epson has unveiled what it claims is a “super-short-throw” projector model, and like its ultra-short-throw brethren, it can be placed extremely close to a screen or wall and throw up a huge picture that’s bright enough for day-time viewing.
It’s called the Epson EH-QS100, and it comes in two different colours - black and white. They're actually designated as two different models, the EH-QS100B and EH-QS100W, but the colour is the only difference between them.
The projector uses pixel-shifting technology to achieve 4K UHD Pro resolution images, which means that the true onscreen pixel count is just 4.14 million instead of the 8.3 million you get with “real” 4K UHD. It should at least offer far more accurate images than any 1080p projector, but it probably won’t match the quality of a genuine 4K device, even though the company promises "crystal-clear visuals with enhanced sharpness and fluidity."
Epson EH-QS100 boasts a throw ratio of 0.16:1, which should ensure it can be placed no more than a couple of inches away from the wall or screen and throw up a pretty huge picture. According to the company, it maxes out at 160-inches.
Perhaps the best thing about this model is the brightness level. Thanks to its 3LCD laser engine, it’s capable of outputting 4,500 lumens, which should ensure a viewable image even in well-lit rooms, though of course, darkened environments will always be better. It also offers 10-bit colour, support for HDR10+ and HLG content, and there’s Dynamic Tone Mapping to adjust aspects of HDR scenes such as their brightness, colour, contrast and clarity.
Epson claims a native contrast ratio of 1,800:1, but says that is bumped up to over 5,000,000:1 in terms of dynamic contrast, ensuring well-defined shadows and deep blacks. In addition, there’s a range of “advanced image enhancement technologies" on board, including super resolution to preserve the detail in every scene, and 4K frame interpolation to smooth out those pictures.
What’s lacking is any kind of smart OS, meaning no Google TV or Android or Roku TV. Instead, to get streaming content, you’ll need to get some kind of streaming stick or other media source to connect to one of its three HDMI ports. By the way, one of those ports also supports audio return, making it possible to hook up some external speakers to boost the device’s sound capabilities. There are Ethernet and USB connections available too, but no Chromecast or Apple AirPlay.
According to Epson, the new model is meant to be a “cost-effective alternative to flat panel screens and achieve high quality, vibrant and expansive images in bright living spaces or media rooms."
Although it’s listed on Epson’s website, there’s no word yet on pricing or availability, though the company promises you’ll be able to buy it from specialist home cinema and Pro AV resellers in the EU starting next month.
