NuVision Unveils DLP Projector Line

By Greg Tarr -- TWICE, 9/11/2009

CEDIA 2009 Atlanta - High-end video display manufacturer NuVision introduced at CEDIA Expo here Thursday its first line of DLP-based FullHD front projectors for the custom installation market.

The company said it will offer three models in the new ProVu series by the end of the year.

Models include the P1, which is billed as an entry .65 single-chip model with a UHP lamp and two throw distances; the P2, which is a step-up single-chip DLP using a .95 DLP DMD chip and long-life LED light source; and the P3, which is a top-of-the-line three-chip .95 DLP model with a high brightness 300-watt UHP lamp allowing up to six different lens configurations.

Jim McGall, NuVision senior VP, explained that while the LED-based P2 offers a wider color gamut, cooler and longer-last light source, the UHP-based P3 was positioned at the top of the line because it provides greater peak light output, which is necessary for larger-screen theater rooms (100 inches and larger).

The P1 will ship at the end of the fourth quarter at an $8,999 suggested retail; the P2 will ship in late first quarter of 2010 at $18,999, and the P3 will carry a $36,999 suggested retail.

All three models have the ability to accept NuVision's CineVu anamorphic lenses, which mount to the frame of the projector allowing for a true 2.35:1 aspect ratio. The lens eliminates the black bars typically displayed with such material without degrading the image resolution.

All 2 million pixels are utilized and the image is then stretched.

NuVision will also offer an add-on "$300 cooling kit," consisting of a sensing fan and duct system that will extend the one-year warranty on the projectors to two years.

McGall said the company decided to get into the projector business because "we are experts at it. We hired a couple of engineers from one of our competitors. We are more than just a flat-panel supplier."

He explained that by having a projector line, NuVision dealers will have the ability to develop "synergistic sales" in a home, when it sells a projector setup, offering NuVision flat-panel displays for other rooms.

NuVision currently lists about 200 active dealers, with plans to expand to between 400 and 600 dealers in the next two months. From there the company will look to develop a dealer bases in international markets, McGall said.

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