UST (Ultra Short Throw) Laser projectors continue to increase in popularity, with companies expanding the number of models offered. The Epson EpiqVision LS650 is a new model making its debut in September 2023.
Update 10/31/2023: The Epson EpiqVision LS650 is available with a black or white finish through the Epson online store and select retailers for $2,799.99.
UST Projectors in a Nutshell
UST projectors incorporate a specially constructed lens assembly that allows images to be displayed from a very short distance, generally less than a foot away from the screen.
A UST projector and screen can provide cost savings when compared to purchasing a flat panel TV sized above 85 inches. Another capability is the elimination of glare that is common with TVs.
However, just as with other types of projectors, USTs are sensitive to room light. Ambient light-reflecting (ALR) screens can mitigate the problem, but as with any projector, they still look best in a darkened room.
Tip: All 2023 UST projectors offer some form of pixel shifting, but not necessarily true 4K resolution. There are no 8K models available yet – However, Hisense demonstrated a pre-production model at the 2023 CES.
Epson released its first Laser UST Laser Projector, the LS100 (a 1080p model) in 2017. Since then, Epson has included 4K UHD models, such as the LS300, LS500, and most recently, the LS800.
The LS650
For 2023, Epson has announced the EpiqVision LS650 UST Projector, which does not offer true 4K resolution. See below for an explanation.
The LS650 incorporates a design that makes it less conspicuous with room decor and can accommodate screens from 60 to 120 inches in size.
Built-in Android TV provides access to an abundance of streaming content, and a built-in Yamaha sound system improves audio performance.
Features
3LCD Imaging Chips: Although the LS650 is a laser projector, unlike most brands and models that use DLP imaging chips, Epson employs 3LCD imaging chips.
Resolution: The LS650 utilizes Pro UHD (4Ke) Pixel Shifting. This means that the pixels on the 1080p resolution LCD chips (red, green, and blue) are shifted back and forth diagonally by a 1/2 pixel (Dual Pixel Shifting) very rapidly. However, since the pixel shift is only half a pixel in one direction about 4.1 million visual pixels, or twice the number as 1080p are actually displayed, so the result is not true 4K. The shifting is undetectable by the human eye.
Bluetooth: You can use the LS650 as a standalone speaker for Bluetooth sources such as smartphones and tablets.
Control: A wireless remote is provided. Google Assistant voice control is also supported.
Specifications
- Laser Light Source: Single laser with 20,000 use hour life.
- White Brightness: 3,600 Lumens
- Color Brightness: 3,600 Lumens
- High Dynamic Range (HDR) Support: HDR10 and HLG.
- Refresh Rate: 4K or 1080p at 60Hz
- Throw Ratio Range: 0.26 (Zoom: Wide), 0.41 (Zoom: Tele)
- Focus Control: Manual Slider
- Image Size Range: 60 to 120 inches
- Smart Features: Android TV and Chromecast built-in.
- Audio: Built-in Yamaha DSP 2.1 system with two full-range speakers and one subwoofer.
- Preset Sound Settings:
- TV
- Sports
- Movies
- Music
- Projector Size (WxDxH): 18.4 x 15.7 x 6.2-inches
- Projector Weight: 16.3 lbs
Connections
Here are the connections provided with the LS650.
- HDMI (ver 2.0): 2, one of which supports ARC/eARC. 18 Gbps bandwidth support is provided
- Digital Optical: 1 output
- USB Type A: Two USB 2.0 compliant ports for connecting a flash drive, webcam, microphone, or external HDD.
- USB mini Type-B: (1) (for service only)
- Ethernet/LAN RJ45: 1
Tip: eARC supports DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS: X, Dolby TrueHD, and Dolby Atmos when connected to a compatible audio system.
In The Box
- Epson EpiqVision™ Ultra LS650 Laser Projector
- Power Cable
- Smart Remote Control with 2 AAA Batteries
- Quick Setup Guide
Availability and Pricing
The Epson EpiqVision LS650 is available in a black or white finish for $2,799 (or less) at ProjectorScreen.com, Epson.com, Amazon.com, and select retailers.
Optional Screen Options: Epson SilverFlex (ALR) Ambient Light Rejecting Screens are available and sold separately by Epson in two sizes, 100 ($2,000.00) and 120 inches ($3,000.00).
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