New home theatre projector takes TV viewing to a new level of realism. But will this pricey product sell?

4K was a term that was restricted mainly to describing the clarity of digital cinema screens across the country. Now this technology has invaded our living rooms, with consumer electronics company Sony India launching a 4K home theatre projector system with 3D capabilities. While other home projector manufacturers like Epson, Panasonic and even Dell have tried their hand at high-definition (HD) projectors, Sony appears to have pipped them to the post by going 4K with 3D.

First, let’s briefly decode this technology for you. 4K refers to the screen’s horizontal resolution, which is 4,000 pixels across or 4K. Most digital cinema projectors are 2K, which means the resolution offered by 4K is four times better.

Sony is planning to sell 100 units priced at a steep Rs 13,99,900 and are quite upbeat about the product. “We have already received a lot of orders for the product and are working on some more cases too,” says Munetaka Satoru, Deputy General Manager, Professional Solution Division, Sony India.

The product employs an entirely new SXRD 4K panel, producing a good device contrast and 2,000 ANSI lumens of brightness. The projector also features Sony’s exclusive super-resolution 4K upscaler, which enhances all content – SD or HD, 2D or 3D. Its picture signals can produce screen sizes of up to 200 inches diagonally for cinematic viewing.

But there’s a slight hitch. Due to the increasing number of multiplexes and digital cinema screens across India, the home entertainment segment has witnessed a sharp drop over the last few years. So, is there really any demand for such a high-end product?

Satoru counters, “There is definitely a demand for such high end products. The next big thing in India is private home entertainment or private screening at home. We are targeting the home entertainment enthusiast, who would be willing to pay a little extra money for better quality and picture. The Indian market is one of the prime growing markets for home projectors where celebrities and high net individuals will be majorly the target for this product.”

An official from a home-video company says, “The price is very steep but if they plan to sell only a limited number of units, they may achieve their sales target. A certain affluent section of society might still want to invest in such a high-end product.”