Epson Launches Lifestudio: Projectors promising more from their sound
The new Lifestudio lineup includes a 4K ultra-short throw projector and budget-friendly HD models, all with Google TV and premium Bose audio.
From portable projectors to an ultra-short throw model, Epson’s new range of projectors meet every need. Epson have unveiled their new Lifestudio brand, which includes five new projectors varying in price, purpose, and features.
The differences in the models vary from their video quality to whether they can be easily carried around or are designed to be planted in one place as a home theater. What all projectors in the Lifestudio range share is Epson’s new partnership with Bose.
All five of Epson’s new models feature build-in speakers developed by Bose. Bose promise that the partnership offers each speaker “crystal-clear, room-filling audio with an integrated stereo system – no external speakers required”.
Internal sound on speakers is nothing new, but quality is rarely of a desirable quality. When considering the high quality, home-theatre experiences of many modern projectors, a sub-par audio experience belies justification for the inclusion of speakers.
However, built-in audio is getting better, as seen with Epson’s partnership with respected audio manufacturer Bose. It is unlikely, though, to live up to the promises of Anker’s newly announced Soundcore Nebula X1 Pro projector, with a floating subwoofer for depth with powerful bass that doesn’t rock the image.
Back to Epsons, new Lifestudio projectors and each model will also feature their new 3LCD projection technology. This promises vibrant and clear picture up to 150 inches in width. Each model also features Google TV built in for 100s of apps to stream from, and mobile apps for seamless streaming from smartphones.
The range starts with its cheapest model at $679.99, the Lifestudio Pop. This projector offers Full HD picture with 700 lumens colour brightness and white brightness. The Lifestudio Pop PLus comes in at $799.99 offering the same features but with 4K PRO-UHD picture.
Next up are the LIfestudio Flex and Flex Plus, offering Full HD and 4K PRO-UHD picture for $849.99 and $999.99 respectively. The primary difference with both of these models is their in-built stand, allowing easy positioning of the picture when placed on a flat surface. The Flex PLus also offers an enhanced 1000 Lumens Colour Brightness.
Finally, there is the premium Lifestudio Grand, an ultra short throw projector that allows 4K picture up to 120″ just inches away from the wall. This allows the space conscious to place the projector near to the wall, retaining a huge, detailed, and crisp picture. It will set you back $2,699.99.
Epson’s new range along with the announcement of Anker’s Soundcore Nebula X1 Pro show a clear move towards all-in-one projectors. The necessity of external speakers for sound quality that matches the high-quality image projectors are capable of limits their use, particularly in portable sets.
Anker’s price point may limit users from access to a high quality sound setup in their projector. Whether Epson’s affordable range hits the mark with their Bose partnership will have to be seen.
Epson’s Lifestudio range is available to buy from retailers now.