Panasonic PT-AE1000 LCD Projector

OK, so the rumors are true. Panasonic is putting out a new 1080p projector that builds upon the venerable PT-AE900U... sort of. To be honest, the replacement for the PT-AE900U is actually the PT-AX100U , which is still a 720p projector but features a much higher lumen output and some opther goodies like dynamic color and brightness adjustment which reacts in real time to ambient light conditions (it is a VERY cool feature to witness in real time!)

The PT-AE1000 projector is a full HD-compatible 1080p 3LCD projector. Details were not quote sketchy, but there is some debate as to release time and retail pricing (they would not give me a price or even a range...) Bottom line is that it's coming out either by the end of November of next January or February (depending upon whether you trust the product demonstrator or the Japanese guy I overheard while exiting the PT-AX100U demo room.)

Features and Specifications:

• 1920x1080p
• 11,000:1 contrast ratio
• 14-bit gamma processing original LSI
• Waveform monitor function
• HD-optimized Dynamic Iris with new algorithm
• HD-optimized Smooth Screen
• Scene-adaptive MPEG noise reduction
• 2/3 pulldown (cinema progressive scan)
• Lens-centered symetrical design
• 2x powered optical zoom and focus
• H/V lens shift (+/- 40% horizontal, +/-100% vertical)
• Learning remote control (huh?)
• Two HDMI inputs
• Built-in test pattern
• Optional cable cover (ET-PCE1000)
• Easy filter/lamp replacement

For more information please visit www.panasonic.com .