During its annual press tour this past July, Epson underscored its commitment to the residential systems entry-level projector market when the company unveiled significant improvements to its MovieMate and Home Cinema lines.
Adding to its line of combo projectors, Epson introduced the portable MovieMate 60 that comes kitted out with a progressive scan standard CD/DVD player and built-in 10W, Dolby Digital DTS speakers. Displaying a 120-inch image from 12 feet away, the unit -- which weighs a relatively light 9.7 pounds -- also features widescreen viewing with 16:9 aspect ratio, 3LCD technology to achieve realistic, vibrant colors, and a 60-percent brighter than previous models, with up to 2,000 lumens for viewing in dark or light rooms.
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The MovieMate
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A new HDMI input allows connection to external HD video sources, while compatibility with Apple iPods, Microsoft XBo 360, Sony PS3, Nintendo Wii and a new microphone input for photo slide narration and karaoke emphasis the MovieMate 60's family-friendly user experience. The estimated price, $699, doesn't hurt either.
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Home Cinema
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The Epson PowerLite Home Cinema 705HD is part of the company's value line aimed at the entry-level, casual projector user and viewer. Priced at $749, the 5-pound, features-rich unit delivers an impressive 2,500 lumens, 720p HD performance, a USB thumb drive port for photo slideshows, auto Keystone correction and 1.2X optical zoom for easy picture adjustments, an energy efficient E-TORL lamp that lasts up to 4,000 hours, and 3LCD technology. Equipped with a variety of inputs, including HDMI, end-users can easily plug in a DVD player, videogame console, satellite or cable receiver, or computer into the projector.