Sony unveils high performance BRAVIA 4K laser projectors

Sony Professional has announced the launch of two new laser projectors, the BRAVIA Projector 9 (VPL-XW8100ES) and BRAVIA Projector 8 (VPL-XW6100ES), expanding its lineup of high-performance home cinema solutions.

The new models are equipped with Sony's latest XR Processor for Projectors, a significant upgrade that brings four key enhancements to the table: XR Dynamic Tone Mapping, XR Deep Black, XR Triluminos Pro, and XR Clear Image. The projectors deliver native 4K images using the world's smallest 0.61-inch SXRD panel.

Utilising a mercury-free laser light source, the BRAVIA Projector 9 offers a 3,400 lumens output and the BRAVIA Projector 8 provides 2,700 lumens. Sony says the BRAVIA Projector 9 is able to achieve a screen brightness of up to 330 nits on a 120-inch screen, making it suitable for both dark home theatres and brighter media rooms.

The XR Dynamic Tone Mapping is a standout feature, analysing peak brightness on a frame-by-frame basis. This results in better shadow representation and colour intensity, even with content mastered at extreme brightness levels, such as 4,000 nits. Unlike previous Sony models that only adjusted static peak brightness, this new dynamic approach marks a substantial improvement in HDR performance.

Building on Sony's reputation for delivering excellent black levels with its SXRD technology, the XR Deep Black feature further enhances this strength. By dynamically dimming the laser in dark scenes, the projectors achieve solid black levels without compromising colour intensity. This is particularly important in maintaining colour fidelity in near-black areas, ensuring that the darkest scenes retain their depth and vibrancy.

In terms of colour performance, the BRAVIA Projector 9 and 8 models cover 95% of the DCI-P3 colour gamut. The BRAVIA Projector 9 also includes a Live Colour Enhancer, which balances vivid colours with realistic skin tones, adding another layer of sophistication to its performance.

Sony XR Clear Image technology is used to upscale HD and SD content to near 4K quality. The XR Processor also introduces image improvement techniques first seen on Sony's flat-panel displays, including focal point processing and Human Cognitive technology.

Integrators should note that Sony has prioritised installation flexibility with these new models, introducing Corner Keystone correction and lens shift control, allowing for easier setup in challenging environments such as venues with high ceilings or limited mounting options. The projectors support a wide range of aspect ratios, including 16:9, 1.85:1, 1.90:1, 2.35:1, and 2.40:1, with the ability to store lens focus, zoom, and shift settings for up to five screen formats.

In addition, the BRAVIA Projector 9 and 8 are fully compatible with leading home automation systems, including Control4, Crestron, Savant, and AMX, as well as remote maintenance services like OvrC and Domotz. This makes them an attractive option for integrators looking to offer clients a seamless and reliable home cinema experience.

The BRAVIA Projector 9 (VPL-XW8100ES) and BRAVIA Projector 8 (VPL-XW6100ES) will be available starting November, with the BRAVIA Projector 9 priced at £25,999 and the BRAVIA Projector 8 at £15,999.