JVC unveils 4K e-Shift3 projector trio at CEDIA Expo

JVC has outed a new projector line-up at CEDIA Expo. A trio of models, comprising the DLA-X900R (pictured above), DLA-X700R and DLA-X500R, all boast improvements in image quality over their predecessors, but are likely to stoke the fires of obfuscation with a 4K update to the brand's proprietary optical e-shift technology.

The new 4K e-shift3 implementation will accept a 4K source compatibility up to 60Hz,  and according to JVC, will display the image at a resolution of 3840 x 2160. However, they are not native 4K projectors, and do not have HDMI 2.0 inputs. This will doubtless leave consumers and integrators alike asking: "When is 4K not 4K?"

The new models all utilise sixth generation JVC D-ILA imaging devices, which feature a pixel gap some 40 per cent narrower than the previous iteration. The end result is a 10 per cent improvement in light efficiency; the projectors have a specified light output of 1,300 lumens.

Contrast across the board is up. JVC is quoting 150,000:1 for the DLA-X900R, 120,000:1 for the DLA-X700R and 60,000:1 for the DLA-X500R. On top, the company has introduced a user-selectable Intelligent Lens Aperture which it maintains is more effective than competing projectors using a traditional dynamic iris. Dynamic contrast is now quoted at 1,500,000:1, 1,200,000:1 and 600,000:1 respectively.

JVC's new 4K e-shift3 technology works in conjunction with a Multiple Pixel Control (MPC) processor with eight-band detection. This processor offers four presets plus an Auto setting that automatically chooses the most appropriate up-conversion. A Clear Black process is employed to improve local area contrast enhancement, while Clear Motion Drive (CMD) uses a new LSI and algorithm to reduce motion artifacts on diagonal lines. Additional enhancements this year are two memory settings for pixel convergence, which can be used to store correction settings for external lenses; a smartphone app that provides remote control of the projector, and an Adobe RGB picture mode on the top two models.

As we've seen from the brand before, the DLA-X900R is essentially an optimised version of the DLA-X700R. Both models offer ISF certification and are paneding THX 3D Certification. The entry-level DLA-X35 remains in the line-up for 2014. All new models will be available from November, priced £10,299, £7,299 and £5,299 respectively.

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