Epson's "true" home-cinema-in-a-box

Philip Wong | Jul 09, 2008

Almost! If you're not into Blu-ray and its latest HD audio and video content that is. The Epson Ensemble HD Home Cinema System is the closest packaged solution which covers just about every nut and bolt for setting up a big-screen home entertainment solution. It comprises a full-HD or 720p projector, motorized 100-inch screen, 5.1-channel surround sound system, DVD media player, universal remote controller, and all relevant accessories such as cables and brackets.

To simplify installation and minimize clutter, clever designs are employed to better integrate its various components, too. We've a projection screen which comes with an inbuilt SoundBar for the front audio channels. Then there's the rounded projector ceiling bracket. This not only houses the beamer but also a pair of surround speakers for better enveloping effects. The latter, together with the remaining audio subsystem, is developed by American-based Atlantic Technology.

Our main reservation is Epson's somewhat inflated asking price. At US$6,999 and US$4,999 for full-HD and 720p, respectively, you could easily assemble a mix-and-match equivalent with enough loose change for a handful of movie discs. At the moment, these will be sold primarily in the US. We're awaiting confirmation on local Asia availability at press time.

Click for larger images: