In essence, Epson has packed the smart parts of a smart TV into an ultra-short-throw projector, along with a good quality audio system. This genre of “laser TV” comes typically bundled with a projection screen, but Epson gives you the option of no screen, a 100-inch screen or a 120-inch screen. 

The screens are ALR models, for Ambient Light Rejection. That means the screen is optimised to reflect light coming from the direction of the projector – which will be sitting at its foot – while suppressing the reflection of ambient light, which could be coming from any direction.

The projector in this kind of system typically sits just ten centimetres or so away from the foot of the projection screen. To ensure the system can compete most effectively with any remaining ambient light, the projector is rated at 3,600 lumens output, and has a rated contrast ratio of an impressive 2.5 million to 1.

The “laser” part of the name is to do with the light engine. Rather than using some form of incandescent lamp, it seems to be based on Epson’s laser/phosphor technology, in which a powerful LED laser excites some phosphor which produces a bright white light. This is more responsive and much longer-lived than traditional technology. Epson rates the EpiqVision EH-LS300B at “up to 10 years of maintenance and hassle-free viewing”.

Epson has partnered with Yamaha for the audio side of things, including a 2.1 sound system bulti into the projector’s body. But it can also feed an external audio system via its optical audio output.

The smart part is based on Android TV. That means a virtually limitless set of streaming apps are available, including free to air catch up services (there’s no TV tuner built-in) plus, of course, Netflix, Stan, Prime TV and all the rest of them.

The EpiqVision EH-LS300B will be available from January 2021 priced at $3,999 for the projector alone, $5,099 for the projector with a 100-inch screen, and $5,699 for the projector and 120-inch screen.

For more information visit Epson