[size=1.1]When you think of
LG, you probably think of
OLED and LCD TVs, but the company has dabbled in projectors for quite a few years as well. At CES 2018, its latest offering in this product category is the LG HU80KA 4K/UHD
projector.
The projector’s imaging system is based on Texas Instruments’ 4K/UHD DLP technology, in which the chip has a native
pixel array of 2716×1528 (4.15 million
pixels). Each pixel is quickly wiggled back and forth diagonally between two positions to achieve an effective resolution of 3840×2160 (8.3 million
pixels), a process TI calls XPR (eXpanded Pixel Resolution).
The laser-phosphor light engine is spec’d to output 2500 lumens and fill a 150″ screen. Even better, the
projector supports HDR10 high dynamic range.
The
LG HU80KA utilizes a unique enclosure—a standalone, upright rectangular box with a mirror in the lid that reflects the upfiring image toward the screen. It can be mounted on the floor, wall, or ceiling, and its relatively small size, light weight, and convenient carrying handle let you easily move it wherever you want. The mirror lid can be closed to protect the lens from dust when it’s stored away.
Unlike many home-theater
projectors, the LG HU80KA provides smart-TV functionality—specifically, LG’s webOS 3.5 with many streaming
apps. It also offers
HDMI, USB, and Ethernet connections as well as Bluetooth support for external devices such as a keyboard and mouse. In addition, external speakers or a soundbar can be connected via the optical digital-audio output, HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel), or
Bluetooth. Two 7W speakers provide sound if you don’t have an outboard sound system handy.
According to Tim Alessi, head of product marketing at
LG Electronics USA, “LG’s first-ever
4K UHD projector represents the pinnacle of innovation in the
portableentertainment market. Offering superb brightness coupled with a design that offers true versatility, the new HU80KA will lead the way in changing how consumers enjoy 4K content in their home and on the go.”
As expected, pricing and availability have not yet been revealed. I think this is a very interesting product announcement, and I look forward to checking it out at CES 2018.