Flagship VPL-GTZ380 Arrives 2021
Sony just released two new native 4K (4096 x 2160) home theater projectors with SXRD panels, and announced its flagship projector won’t arrive until next year. Starting at nearly $10,000, the lamp based VPL-VW715ES projector replaces the VPL-VW695ES. At $20,000 the VPL-VW915ES laser projector replaces the VPL-VW885ES. Lastly, arriving early 2021 is Sony’s flagship VPL-GTZ380 4K SXRD laser projector. No price yet.
The new lamp VPL-VW715ES and laser VPL-VW915ES models have nearly identical specifications as the previous models. Like their predecessors, the VPL-VW715ES boasts 1,800 lumens of brightness, while the VPL-VW915ES ups light output to 2,000 lumens. Each of those models adds a new picture processor “X1™ for projector,” based on technology used for Sony’s best-in-class TVs. The flagship VPL-GTZ380 offers 10,000 lumens and further improves image processing with Sony’s “X1™ Ultimate for projector”.
Product Introductions
Sony claims the improved processing power of the newly installed X1™ for projector offers greater HDR enhancement and analysis compared to previous models. The new HDR feature analyzes scene-by-scene to deliver the best contrast performance when viewing HDR content, making the bright scenes brighter and the dark scenes darker. This dynamic range of contrast and brightness is further expanded by linking the light source and iris to further calibrate lighting output. Plus, a new digital focus optimizer improves focus level by compensating optical degradation of the lens to offer corner-to-corner clarity. Lastly, both projectors provide 4K upscaling which claims to reproduce “real-world textures”.
VPL-GTZ380 Key Features
Sony’s flagship 4K SXRD laser projector VPL-GTZ380 is powerful enough for use in a home theater or living room, as well as corporate, entertainment and simulation environments. This projector delivers overwhelming image expression with its high contrast, brightness and HDR with wide color gamut. The model features “X1™ Ultimate for projector,” to enable enhanced picture quality. This includes new features such as Dynamic HDR Enhancer and Object based HDR Remaster to enhance dynamic range and achieve deeper blacks.
This groundbreaking projector incorporates a newly developed 0.74″ native 4K SXRD™ panel with improved light stability and a new laser light source using a red laser diode in addition to the two different-wavelength blue laser diodes. This enables the model to achieve an impressive 10,000 lumens and a wide color gamut of 100% DCI-P3 without any loss of brightness. With low-heat and a compact chassis, this industry-leading projector offers flexible installation possibilities.
From a design perspective, at 112 pounds, the VPL-GTZ380 has a compact body size for its class, due to the adoption of the small sized panel and patented phosphor wheel providing efficient heat release, which allows the model to seamlessly integrate into a variety of installation environments. Additionally, the projector achieves 39dB for quiet operation due to the use of liquid SXRD panel cooling system and streamlined air flow design. Its form factor, quiet operation and easily stackable four corner mount design enables multi-projection in domes and for large screen exhibitions. Due to its high contrast and deep black levels, the projector minimizes banding, allowing for uniform blending.
Through an optional license, the VPL-GTZ380 can also support 4K 120Hz and low transport delay, which are essential for displaying CG images for training simulators and large-screen displays of eSports events. The model has additional optional 3D and Night Vision Goggle (NVG) functions for use in VR research facilities and for specialized training.
Price & Availability
- Sony VPL-VW715 – $9,999 (available Oct. 2, 2020 in black or white)
- Available at: Amazon and Audio Advice
- Sony VPL-VW915 – $19,999 (available Oct. 2, 2020 in black)
- Available at: Amazon and Audio Advice
- Sony VPL-GTZ380 – TBD (available winter 2021)
- Learn more at sony.com
