Big Picture Big Sound

At Sony's press conference at this year's CEDIA Expo earlier today, the Japanese consumer electronics giant didn't forget to show some love love for the projector market. Sony unveiled two new 1080p projectors for the home theater market, the VPL-VW85 and the VPL-HW15.

The big boy is the VPL-VW85, which combines a full HD 1920 x 1080 pixel progressive Silicon X-tal Reflective Display (SXRD) imaging engine, 24p True Cinema technology, and Sony's Motionflow 120Hz. It also features a high dynamic contrast of 120,000:1, brightness of 800 ANSI lumens, and a 1.6x motorized zoom.

Designed specifically for the custom installation market, the VPL-VW85 also has a motorized, fully adjustable, "lens shift" function, which makes for endless install options. Start planning now, because the unit will be available through authorized dealers and Sony Style stores next month, for about $8,000.

If you want something with a little less oomph -- and a lot lower price tag -- the company also announced the VPL-HW15 SXRD projector. It promises the 1080p picture, with 24p True Cinema technology, a 60,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio and a brightness of 1,000 ANSI lumens. The VPL-HW15 will be available at the same time, in the same places, but for a more affordable $3000.

More Sony Announcements from CEDIA Expo 2009:

• Sony BDP-N460 Blu-ray Player to Include Netflix, YouTube Streaming
• Networked Sony STR-DA5500ES Receiver Goes Beyond the Home Theater
• Sony KDL-52XBR10, KDL-46XBR10 LCD HDTVs Offer LED lighting, Wireless HD and IPTV features

Where to Buy:

• Sony SXRD projectors on Amazon.com

More information:

• SonyStyle.com