Sony Bravia Projector 7 Promises Enhanced Contrast and Flexibility

Sony has unveiled its latest addition to the Bravia projector lineup, the VPL-XW5100ES, also known as the Bravia Projector 7. This new model is set to replace the VPL-XW5000ES and joins the ranks of the Projector 8 and 9. Utilizing Sony's proprietary SXRD technology, a variant of Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCOS), the Projector 7 aims to deliver superior contrast ratios compared to the more common DLP and LCD chips. The previous model, the VPL-VW325ES, already boasted an impressive contrast ratio, and the Projector 7 is expected to surpass it.

With a claimed brightness of 2,200 lumens and a laser light source, the Projector 7 promises enhanced color reproduction and improved black levels, especially in dark scenes. The laser light source allows for quick dimming, enhancing the dynamic contrast and making it ideal for dedicated home theaters. Historically, Sony projectors have faced challenges with brightness, but the Projector 7's specifications suggest it will be adequately bright for its intended use.

One of the standout features of the Projector 7 is its Aspect Ratio Scaling Mode, which allows users to switch seamlessly between 2.35:1 and 16:9 content on Cinemascope screens without lens adjustments. However, this feature has sparked some controversy, as it involves cropping content to fit a 2.35:1 screen, which some purists argue compromises the viewing experience. A motorized lens with presets is often preferred for maintaining the correct aspect ratio without cropping.

While the pricing for the Projector 7 has not been announced, it is expected to fall between the $6,000 price of the VPL-XW5000ES and the $16,000 price of the Projector 8. As Sony continues to innovate in the projector space, the Bravia Projector 7 stands as a testament to their commitment to delivering high-quality visual experiences.