Marantz Expands DLP Projectors

Marantz introduced the Model VP8600, a high-definition DLP projector with the lowest MSRP of the lineup ($5,999). A black cosmetic version of its popular VP-12S4 High-Definition DLP Projector (SRP:$14,499) was also released in direct response to customer and installer demand. Marantz' full line of advanced projectors also includes the ultimate luxury home theater piece, the renowned VP-10S1 ($37,999).

The Marantz VP8600 incorporates TI's HD2+ DMD chip, with 650 ANSI lumens brightness and 4,000 hours of bulb life. The VP8600 features progressive scan output with 3:2 pulldown detection and utilizes 10-bit digital gamma processing. It includes a DVI digital video input with HDCP (High-Definition Content Protection) as well as VGA, component video, s-video, composite video and analog RGB connections.

Like all Marantz projectors, the VP8600 includes an intuitive onscreen menu system that enables easy setup, yet provides extensive calibration facilities including a wider range of color temperature and gamma adjustments. All functions can be accessed via the projector's remote control, which provides easy operation even in darkened home theater environments.

Marantz will also showcase a new version of its breakthrough VP-12S4 reference-quality DLP projector, featuring a new black cosmetic that has been requested specifically by custom installers. The VP12-S4 will also continue to be available in the previously introduced elegant pearlescent cosmetic.

In addition to the world's first-ever use of a specially designed 10-bit image processing chip with Visual Excellence Processing from Gennum Corporation, the VP-12S4 incorporates the Texas Instruments 16x9 high-definition HD2+ DarkChip3 DMD DLP chip which produces images with higher brightness, improved black level and a 4500:1 contrast ratio. For realistic, balanced colors the VP-12S4 features Marantz's proprietary O.R.C.A. Color Correction Filter, filtering light to achieve better color accuracy.

The VP-12S4 utilizes a new medium-throw Minolta lens, specially-built for Marantz, in addition to the long- and short-throw lenses. Providing a wider zoom range and adjustable iris, these custom lenses have double-sealed optics to prevent light leakage, keep out dust and eliminate the "halo" effect that can degrade image quality in other projector designs. The lenses also feature an increased lens shift capability over previous models, allowing for a vertical alignment up to a maximum 50% of the screen height above the screen.

Marantz will also have on display its ultimate-quality 3-chip VP-10S1 High-Definition DLP Projector. The VP-10S1 incorporates three Texas Instruments 16 x 9 high-definition HD2 1280 x 720 DMD chips, delivering unprecedented picture quality in every respect with standard-setting sharpness, resolution and clarity. The VP-10S1 is currently available with a suggested retail price of $37,999.

For more information please visit www.marantz.com .