Sanyo Unveils LCD Projector

Sanyo's new PLV-Z5 LCD projector has a 10,000:1 contrast ratio.

TWICE (This Week in Consumer Electronics)
November 6, 2006

Greg Tarr

Chatsworth, Calif. — Sanyo has launched a new home-theater-targeted LCD projector which is said to produce a 10,000:1 contrast ratio.

The projector, model PLV-Z5 ($1,695 minimum advertised price), features an unusual "twin-iris system," that integrates a lens aperture and lamp aperture to deliver what the company calls "true-to-life images with outstanding gradation in a variety of viewing environments."

Native resolution is listed at 1,280 by 720p, and unit brightness is said to be 1,100 ANSI lumens.

Sanyo's newly developed TopazReal Technology combines the brightness level of the lamp output and newly designed LCD panels to achieve a sharp picture in scenes with a wide range of brightness levels.

The technology is also said to produce "crisp, bright high-contrast images, even in well-lit environments."

Inputs include two HDMI and two sets of HD component video, in addition to composite and S-video standard definition inputs. PCs can be attached to the projector via a D-sub 15 input.

Other features in the unit include 3D-color management that allows the viewer to adjust and save the hue, gamma curve and level of any color. With a brightness of 1,100 ANSI lumens, the PLV-Z5 can project images on a 100W-inch screen from a distance of 9.8 feet and up to 20 feet.

The unit adds 12-bit digital video processing of RGB color. Another new feature in the unit maintains dust control. The lens is protected from dust by a motor-operated sliding shutter that can be opened or closed automatically by remote control, the company said.

The PLV-Z5 offers users a 3-year warranty. In addition, Sanyo is offering an after-purchase $200, mail-in rebate running between Oct. 20 and Jan. 31, 2007.