Epson LS9000: Cinema like a real projector – but cheaper than you think!

Epson has launched a new version of its top home cinema equipment. Pro Cinema LS9000 is a 4K laser projector with HDR10+, HDR10 and HLG, offering much of what the LS12000 has but at a considerably lower price – exactly 3,999 AUD (~2,995 GBP). Brightness? 2,200 lumens – less than the more expensive model, but still enough to deliver cinema quality in a dark room. In the package, we have, among other things, a motorised lens, autofocus, zoom, lens shift, and laser lifespan of up to 20,000 hours.

Differences compared to the LS12000? Mainly in the details

Under the hood, you'll find a 32-bit ZX processor, which is responsible for interpolation, resolution enhancement, and HDR. It's the same engine as in the more expensive models – just a bit weaker (since it's 32-bit instead of 36-bit). In practice? The picture will still do the job. Epson promises over a billion colours, dynamic contrast of 2,500,000:1, and an image size of up to 300 inches diagonally. Additionally, there’s manual keystone correction and support for anamorphic lenses – if you’re considering a 2.35:1 screen, you’re in the right place.

Two HDMI 2.1, 4K at 120 Hz – ready for gaming and streaming

LS9000 does not have its own operating system, so it requires an external source of image – but it allows for full freedom of configuration. It features two HDMI 2.1 ports with support for ARC/eARC, so you can easily connect a console, stick, or set-top box. The projector supports 4K at 120 Hz, which will delight gamers, and the zoom memory mode allows it to be perfectly adjusted for wide-format home cinema. There’s also a USB Type A – for streaming without any hassle.

Not for the lounge, but for a real cinema

This projector isn't for everyone. If you want to watch in a bright room – you'd be better off checking out Epson Q-Series, where brightness reaches up to 10,000 lumens. LS9000 is gear for darkened spaces, where its image really shows its claws. Importantly, the projector supports Control4, Crestron and other smart home systems compatible with PJLink, so you'll have no trouble integrating it with your home automation.