LAS VEGAS-Imagine a home theater system with full 5.1 surround sound, a DVD
player and a 100-inch screen for under $5,000 - or under $7,000 for 1080p.
Epson and speaker manufacturer Atlantic Technology have built a complete
front-projection system, dubbed the Ensemble HD, that offers easy
installation, a 100-inch motorized screen and an Epson PowerLite 3LCD
projector. The 720p version will be priced at $4,995; the 1080p version
weighs in at $6,995.
One of the key problems with front-projection systems is potential buyer
confusion. Choosing between the myriad components causes most interested
buyers to walk away. Add in the hassles of installation, which include
multiple cable runs, having to plumb new power connections and installing
large A/V racks.Only the most dedicated videophiles follow through with
front projection systems.
Epson took a long, hard look at the problem and developed the Ensemble HD.
The system includes components designed by renowned speaker manufacturer
Atlantic Technology. The front speaker array is actually built into the
powered screen mount, and consists of three 4.5-inch midrange driers and
three 1-inch, horn loaded tweeters. The 4-inch, full range surround speakers
are built into the projector housing, but can be detached for wall mounting.
The multichannel amplifier is built into the subwoofer, delivering 100 watts
per channel to the 10-inch subwoofer and 50W per channel to each of the
satellite speakers.
Boundary compensation controls are built into the control unit, allowing
mounting flexibility for the combination screen and speaker array. This
allows the screen to be wall mounted, ceiling mounted or even mounted at the
junction of wall and ceiling. A universal remote controls the volume, lowers
the screen and powers up the key components. The control unit also has a
pair of HDMI inputs, plus component video, for hooking up additional
components, such as high definition disc players and set-top boxes.
A single cable runs from the subwoofer to the screen. That cable carries
both screen motor and speaker power to the screen. Another cable runs from
the screen to the projector, powering both the projector and surround
speakers.
Epson estimates that the entire unit can be installed in four hours by a
professional installer. All the hardware needed for installation, including
paintable cable trays and mounting hardware are included.
Both Ensemble HD units are available now. More information can be found at
Epson's Web page.
Source: pcmag.com
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