Audio Video News

Runco, arguably the high-end projection television brand, has been acquired by Beaverton, Oregon-based Planar Systems in a cash deal worth $36.7 million.

Sam and Laurie Runco founded Runco International in 1987 though the Runco brand goes back to the 1970s. In 1972, Sam used a fresnel lens to magnify the picture from a 15-inch television. Today the company is a favorite among videophiles and custom installers.

Among the company's first products was the Runco International HT, which stood for home theater, a term Sam is believed to have coined. He trademarked the phrase home theater in 1990.

Runco made a name for itself in CRT-based front-projection systems and the company's tube-based products are still regarded as the gold standard in video projection. However, Runco also lent a hand in developing DLP projection technology and has marketed LCD projectors, plasmas, video processors, and other products.

Runco will become one of the parent company's three brands, in addition to Planar and Vidikron.

"Sam Runco and his wife Laurie will remain attached to our hip as they always have been as consultants for the business in multiple fashions, from brand to channel management, media relations and technology," Planar VP Scott Hix told TWICE.