Sony Cineza VPL-HS51A LCD Projector: First Look

Price: $2,999

Highlights: 1280x720 three-chip LCD, dynamic iris for increased black level performance, one HDMI input, motorized zoom and focus and vertical and horizontal lens shift.

The VPL-HS51A seems on paper to be virtually identical to its groundbreaking predecessor, with the single exception of a higher contrast ratio spec. Our speculation is that Sony has continued to refine its dynamic iris technology, and realized the contrast gains there. Oh, and did we mention that it costs $500 less than the VPL-HS51? Our limited exposure suggests that this projector is indeed a subtly refined version of the Cineza that preceded it, and that this is still the top dog in the sub-$5K kennel of front projectors. Available Now.

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