We got some time to review the Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS500 projector in a home theater environment to see how the model performs. And, how it compares to other projectors in its class including the Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS800. Here’s a review.
The Epson EpiqVision Ultra LS500 is a short-throw 3LCD short-throw home theater laser projector. What’s the difference between a laser projector and a traditional long-throw projector? A laser projector uses a laser phosphor lamp, which essentially will never blow out like traditional projector bulbs.
Its “short throw” classification means that it can be placed not far away from a wall and still project a 100-inch image. Specifically, the LS500 needs to be 17 inches/43.2 cm from the wall when using a 100-inch Epson SilverFlex Ultra Ambient Light Rejecting Screen or 22 inches/55.9 cm for a 120-inch screen. Those measurements start from the back of the unit (not the lens side). The Epson LS500 can sit on a media console, on a shelf off the wall, or hung from the ceiling.
Features
The LS500 projector has a resolution of 1920 X 1080 with 4K pixel shifting. That means this projector is not native 4K, but instead upscales video to 4K resolution.
The projector boasts a dynamic contrast ratio of 2,000,000:1 with advanced HDR processing. The brightness of this projector is rated at 4000 ANSI lumens with 10-bit color processing. The LS 500 also supports full 3D in Full HD with the shutter-type glasses.
The LS500 uses 18 Gbps HDMI 2.0 with ARC Support and is compatible with most color formats including 4K HDR10/HLG content at a full 60 Hz. Formats include 4:2:2 (4K 60 fps HDR10), 4:4:4 (4K 30 fps HDR10), and 4:4:4 (4K 60 fps no HDR).
The Epson EpiqVision LS500 is a great alternative to OLED and LCD TVs in that it can project onto a 100-inch or 120-inch Epson SilverFlex screen. You can, of course, project an image at whatever size you want on any screen or wall, but the Epson SilverFlex light rejecting screen technology maximizes its image quality. The projector supports images up to 130″ (diagonal).
Price
The LS500 was released in 2020 at an MSRP of $4,999. It eventually dropped down to $3,999 and is now selling for around $2,499+ on Amazon and Best Buy. The model in white finish may not be on sale. Various models include the LS500W and LS500B which are available in white and black designs.
Our Take
The LS500 is a perfectly capable short-throw projector that provides a sharp image, even at its native HD resolution. We played several reference level 4K, Blu-rays including Game of Thrones, Top Gun: Maverick, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, and several 4K streams from Apple TV to test the quality.
Color renders nicely for a projector. The laser technology paired with 10-bit color processing deliver rich color, especially in lower lighting situations where there is no daylight for artificial light interference.
The LS500 runs on the Android OS with Google Assistant and streaming apps. You don’t have to utilize the Android OS if you don’t want to, but it makes it easy to tie in your Google account and video libraries.
The speaker is not bad for a projector, delivering audio to twin 10-watt internal speakers. You’ll want to use this with a more capable audio system, but it’s nice to know there are speakers there if you need them.
The operating noise when not in Cinematic mode is quite loud. It seems the full 36 decibels are reached when in Dynamic, Bright Cinematic, and Gaming modes, so much so that you almost need to wear headphones or have your audio levels set to a higher level two override the operating noise.
Pros
- The LS500 boosts a 4000-lumen rating offering a bright image and excellent 3D rendering.
- The contrast ratio of 2,000,000:1 and 10-bit color provide deep black levels, rich colors, and detailed white levels.
- The projector features a wired Ethernet port to ensure users get maximum bandwidth without interruptions (possible with Wi-Fi) for streaming video and audio.
- It’s a nice stylish design, with a retro-looking hood where the laser lens is encased.
- The price of this projector has gone down drastically since releasing in 2020. Right now you can grab one for about $2,499 from Amazon or Best Buy.
Cons
- The LS500 is not native 4K resolution (supports 4k and upscales content)
- The LS500 has a fairly loud operating noise that is even more so when put in Dynamic, Bright Cinematic, or Gaming modes.
- The LS500 has to sit 17 inches off the wall to fill a 100” screen.
Here’s a link to the quick set up manual and installation guide from Epson.
