Laser LCD

EPSON LS12000 4K PRO-UHD LASER LCD PROJECTOR

- Kris Deering

AFTER WHAT felt like a lifetime since its last new home theater projector announcement, Epson recently launched the LS12000 4K PRO-UHD laser model. Selling at the surprisingly low retail price of $4,999, the new Epson boasts serious chops when it comes to features and specifications, and I felt fortunate to have a review sample sent my way. Let's dive in and see what this new projector brings to the home theater game.

The LS12000 has a nicely textured all-black chassis along with a detachable back cover plate that can be used to hide the back panel after you've made all your hookups. Connections include a pair of 48Gbps HDMI 2.1 inputs (HDCP 2.3) with one supporting eARC/ARC. Both inputs also support a 4K/120Hz refresh for full compatibility with the latest gaming consoles-currently a rare feature in the projection world. You'll also find two USB Type-A ports, a mini-USB for service, an Ethernet port, RS-232 for control systems, and a 12-volt trigger output. Interface buttons are provided on the back to navigate Epson's onscreen menus without a remote control. Surprisingly, the LS12000 does not support 3D, so there's no connection for a 3D receiver.

Up front you'll find Epson's 15-element all-glass "VRX" lens, which is fully motorized for zoom, focus, and lens shift and has a 1.35-2.84 throw range. When the projector is shut off, a powered door cover slides out to protect the lens. The LS12000 also has a large number of lens memories, making it easy to store multiple presets for those wishing to use the projector with wider aspect ratio screens. On the chassis' bottom you'll find two adjustable feet up front and a single bumper on back. This can make proper alignment difficult if shelf mounting the projector. (I prefer adjustable feet at all corners.)