Sony’s VPL-HW45ES is its newest projector, intended as an entry model into the world of home cinema. Based on Sony’s SXRD (a variant on LCoS) technology, it acts as a step down from the VPL-HW65ES, with many features shared between the units.
Reality Creation optimises images, refining colours and textures. Combined with the SXRD panel, Sony says that images will be brighter, with higher contrast and less background noise than the projector’s predecessor, the VPL-HW40ES.
Installation is intended to be flexible; the projector has a front-facing exhaust port and 1.6x zoom. Vertical (+/-71°) and horizontal (+/-25°) lens shift can be adjusted manually.
Display resolution is 1920 x 1080. A 215W lamp (up to 6,000 hours) provides up to 1,800 lumens of brightness (interestingly, Sony specifies both white and colour light Output [both at 1,800 lumens], which we have previously only seen from Epson. SXRD and LCD projector technologies both use three panels, so are similar in their methods of colour reproduction. Now that the CLO metric seems to be gaining some recognition in the industry, it makes sense for Sony to promote it, too – TA). Image size is 40″ – 300″.
HDMI (x2) ports are featured, with RS232 and 9-pin D-Sub for remote control. A USB-B port can be used for software updates.
The projector measures 407.4 x 436.9 x 179.2mm and weighs 9kg. It will go on sale in May, for €2,200 including tax.
