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Epson has released their most advanced home theater yet—the laser-driven Pro Cinema LS12000. It is the first of Epson's home theater projectors to achieve full 4K UHD (3840x2160) resolution by utilizing four-phase, dual-axis pixel shift technology with native 1080p imagers, a breakthrough made possible by a new Precision Shift Glass Plate that uses a quicker and quieter coil design. Projector enthusiasts know that this approach of applying four-phase pixel-shifting to a native 1080p chip has been successfully used for some time in Texas Instruments' XPR DLP technology to put every pixel in a UHD frame on screen and achieve detail that's difficult to discern from native 4K imagers.
The LS12000 uses a blue-laser diode array and fixed yellow phosphor as a white light source that's distributed through optics to each of the projectors 3 LCD imaging devices dedicated to the red, green, and blue primaries. The projector is rated at 2,700 ANSI lumens, with the usual 3LCD benefits of equal white and color brightness and immunity to rainbow artifacts. The light source has a life of up to 20,000 hours regardless of light mode.
The LS12000 uses an Epson VRX Cinema Lens with a proprietary 15-element lens structure designed for zero light leakage. It has a 2.1x zoom and a throw ratio range of 1.35-2.84:1. As with Epson's earlier premium projectors, it offers powered focus, optical zoom, lens shift—up to ±96.3% horizontal and ±47.1% vertical—and a powered lens cover. Positioning can be stored in one of ten lens memory presets. The projector is also compatible with an outboard anamorphic lens.
The LS12000 has a variety of other features that contribute to image quality. It is ISF certified and has a 14-point white balance adjustment for calibration to achieve highly accurate color. Epson's UltraBlack technology is on board to reduce internal light scatter, and in conjunction with the projector's auto iris, the LS12000 is capable of a dynamic contrast ratio up to 2,500,000:1. HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG high dynamic range content are all supported, and with the help of the new 36-bit Epson ZX Picture Processor, the LS12000 deploys a real-time scene adaptive gamma function to fine tune HDR performance.
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Two full 48-Gbps bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports allow for 4K/120Hz gaming and a variety of chroma subsampling options with HDR and SDR. Epson says input lag times are below 20ms, which is low enough for serious gaming on the Xbox Series X or PS5 gaming consoles. eARC is supported on one of the two HDMI 2.1. In addition to the two HDMI 2.1 ports are two USB (one to power an optical HDMI cable and one additional for power and firmware), Ethernet, RS-232C, a trigger out, and a mini USB for service.
The Pro Cinema LS12000 laser projector is available now through Epson's website, Magnolia stores, and CEDIA dealers. It has an MSRP of $4,999, includes a ceiling installation kit and back panel cable cover, and comes with a standard three-year limited warranty, two-business-day full unit replacement (including shipping), and free lifetime technical phone support. At its announced price, the LS12000 becomes, by far, the least expensive 3-chip, 4K laser home theater projector on the market, with the next closest competitor being JVC's DLA-NZ7 with true native 4K resolution and LCoS imaging technology at $10,999.
For more detailed specifications and connections, check out our Epson Pro Cinema LS12000 projector page.
To buy this projector, use Where to Buy online, or get a price quote by email direct from Projector Central authorized dealers using our E-Z Quote tool.
The Epson Pro Cinema LS12000 is also sold outside of the United States of America as the Epson EH-LS12000B. Some specifications may be slightly different. Check with Epson for complete specifications.
Comments (48)
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Lowell Posted Feb 15, 2022 8:25 AM PST
I currently have a 6050. I was reading over these specs and comparing to the 6050. To me this just looks like an upgraded 6050 with HDMI 2.1 and a laser light source. It's even the same chassis size. Am I missing something?
Rob Sabin, Editor Posted Feb 15, 2022 8:30 AM PST
The change to full 4K resolution is perhaps the most important advance for Epson in this new top of the line. The 5050UB and 6050UB only deliver 1080p x 2, a doubling of the pixel count and only half of the full UHD pixel count for a given frame of video. The ability to do four-phase pixel shifting should greatly reduce the size of the pixels at close range vs Epson's earlier Pro 4K UHD shifting/processing tech and improve detail. It essentially put an Epson projector on par with the majority of 4K DLP projectors out there. Also: HDR10+ has been added as a dynamic HDR option with compatible content, and the adaptive gamma function is essentially a version of Epson's own dynamic HDR processing that will automatically react to HDR content in a way that the 6050 does not. You also can't do 14-step white balance adjustments on the 6050, which should help calibrators extract even better color accuracy out of this one.
Tom Posted Feb 15, 2022 8:52 AM PST
When do we get to see a review of picture quality or comparison? I really want to know if this is worth the money
Rob Sabin, Editor Posted Feb 15, 2022 9:24 AM PST
We just received a sample and will get right on it.
RSR Posted Feb 15, 2022 9:35 AM PST
I am really excited to see this new projector from Epson. This looks like a great value for an MSRP of $5000. The Epson lens quality and image is fantastic. I have a Epson 5050UBe, and it is amazing. I am sure this projector will surpass 5050UB, although not by a massive margin.
Jason Posted Feb 15, 2022 10:11 AM PST
Planning a dedicated basement HT (light controlled, 120" 16:9 screen) and I was all set to order a JVC (initially NP5, then decided I wanted to splurge for the NZ7) for the great JVC blacks, native 4K, JVC DTM. The consistent light output over time of the laser based NZ7 got me. Now this has thrown a big wrench in my plans. Prelim reviews are putting it close to NZ7 performance. If that's true I would have a hard time paying over double for the NZ7. Very much looking forward to your review.
Lowell Posted Feb 15, 2022 10:19 AM PST
"The change to full 4K resolution is perhaps the most important advance for Epson in this new top of the line. " "It is the first of Epson's home theater projectors to achieve full 4K UHD (3840x2160) resolution by utilizing four-phase, dual-axis pixel shift technology with native 1080p imagers" This still does not sound like native 4K. Unless they are resolving each pixel output 1 for 1 on a 4K image, it's still faux 4K. I hope it's native 4K, but if it's not I don't know if it's much of an upgrade. I am looking forward to your first look.
Rob Sabin, Editor Posted Feb 15, 2022 10:22 AM PST
Lowell, this isn't what we would call native 4K, but I think you have to put the whole faux-K thing in perspective. This should be a huge step up in detail from Epson's current approach in the 5050UB, and is essentially equivalent to what DLP does with their 0.47-inch chip to achieve 4K resolution. I think that's a very viable and well proven alternative to expensive native 4K LCoS projectors.
Rob Sabin, Editor Posted Feb 15, 2022 11:49 AM PST
Epson did release a step-down version in Europe at the same time they announced the EH-LS12000 there, but hasn't officially said anything about that for the U.S.
tom Posted Feb 15, 2022 1:52 PM PST
the specs say the fan noise is 22-30db. What is the brightness rating in eco (22db) mode?
Rob Sabin, Editor Posted Feb 15, 2022 1:55 PM PST
Tom, we'll measure the brightness and "real-world" fan noise to find out for sure what the Eco mode or other low/mid laser settings deliver to the screen with what amount of noise. But the reality is that even if your screen is small enough to use a power-saving mode for SDR, as with most projectorts there's a good likelihood that you'll use full power for HDR.
Tom Posted Feb 15, 2022 4:58 PM PST
I always love the reviews from you guys. They seem to have no bias whatsoever so I can take them at face value and not have to worry that Sony, Epson, JVC or whoever is "buying" a good review from your editors/reviewers.
At first glance, I can't see anything this projector is lacking in. It hits all the hot buttons so hoping the review ends up confirming: excellent blacks bright colors and wide color gamut long laser light source adaptive HDR 120hz 4k etc. etc.
I did not see anywhere on any sites their claims to the degree of colors this will have... match or better than the 6050?
At first glance, I can't see anything this projector is lacking in. It hits all the hot buttons so hoping the review ends up confirming: excellent blacks bright colors and wide color gamut long laser light source adaptive HDR 120hz 4k etc. etc.
I did not see anywhere on any sites their claims to the degree of colors this will have... match or better than the 6050?
Rob Sabin, Editor Posted Feb 15, 2022 5:00 PM PST
Tom, Epson hasn't provided us with a color gamut spec that I can find in any of my materials, notes, or spec sheet. The 6050/5050 are full DCI-P3 capable, but we'll measure what we get here.
Jonathon Posted Feb 15, 2022 6:04 PM PST
I’m most interested in the actual native contrast. I have a 5040UB and found the dynamic contrast too distracting. Am interested to know both how the actual contrast is, as well as the color performance which isn’t mentioned. Exactly what percentage of Rec.2020 does this unit display? Hope to find out with your review. Looking forward to it. Cheers!
Rob Sabin, Editor Posted Feb 15, 2022 7:20 PM PST
Alex, we'll let you know if we observe any, but don't worry, we won't. Rainbow artifacts are the result of the different primary (and sometimes secondary) colors being presented sequentially to a single-chip projector's imaging device (ie, think single-chip DLP). It's done fast enough that the mind is tricked into seeing a full color image. This sequential presentation is done either through a color wheel (most common) or by playing with the timing of the different color presentations in a projector that has a solid state RGB light source, such as an LED projector. All Epson LCD projectors (as well as the JVC and Sony LCoS projectors) have a constant light source that is separated into the red, green, and blue primaries prior to hitting a dedicated imaging chip for each of those. So rainbows are simply an impossibility on a three-chip projector, as Epson, Sony, and JVC like to remind us. What CAN happen on a three chip projector is that you can get color fringing that's most visible on white characters or lines if the three separate chips come out of perfect alignment. But three-chip projectors usually have the facilities to align the panels if needed, and you don't need instruments to do it.
Rob Sabin, Editor Posted Feb 16, 2022 6:52 AM PST
@Ashkaan, @Toby, @Lawrence, I have reached out to Epson to confirm if the LS12000 supports 3D, but based on research on Epson's European website, I can say that 3D is NOT supported for the equivalent projector released in Europe, the EH-LS12000. I will update this post when I get firm information.
UPDATE: Epson confirms, no 3D in the LS12000. Sorry guys... :-(
UPDATE: Epson confirms, no 3D in the LS12000. Sorry guys... :-(
Lawrence Posted Feb 16, 2022 1:19 PM PST
No 3D? Well, that ends any chance of me buying this model. Too bad. I do hope that some new 4K laser or laser/LED projectors are introduced which WILL fully support 3D (and I hope that they will be priced reasonably).
Rob Sabin, Editor Posted Feb 16, 2022 1:24 PM PST
Me too, Lawrence. It's a shame that they dropped this feature after having it on most of their other models to date. I will be inquiring for our review; I wonder if it has anything to do with the new high frequency glass plate used for the four-phase pixel shifting. Or an issue with available memory and processing given what they have to do to achieve 4K. Perhaps its a feature they can add going forward with firmware.
Anamdeo Posted Feb 17, 2022 5:15 PM PST
I am really interested in this one and waiting for an in-depth review from you guys. Any impressions on how this would compare to Hisense PX1-PRO?
Rob Sabin, Editor Posted Feb 19, 2022 10:02 AM PST
Anamdeo, we are just starting reviews of both projectors, but these are really different animals with different strengths.
Milesaz Posted Feb 19, 2022 3:51 PM PST
Hello, I was watching this one review on youtube where the reviewer said that it (3lcd) has less sharpness compared to DLP projectors. Is it really the case?
Justin Posted Feb 20, 2022 4:45 AM PST
I know you said you started your review of this unit. How long do you typically take reviewing? I'm very curious to read your review. Also, I'll repeat a previous request of mine that if you can find a way to measure response time (the time taken to draw a frame, not input lag), to please do so. With this claiming 120 fps I wonder if the response time is fast enough to introduce stutter on 24p content with panning shots. This is not usually a problem with projectors as the response times at least seem to be slower than most TV's. However, when you get into true 120 fps panels it's almost a given that the response times are very fast and certainly introduce 24p stutter problems. I can't handle frame interpolation so this is a big point of interest for me. I still can't believe TV manufacturers haven't introduced a user adjustable feature to reduce response time. All you have to do is insert delays in between the drawing of each pixel and that should, quite naturally even, increase response time and reduce stutter. Of course it would increase the potential for motion blur but I'd like a happy medium between them.
Isaac Posted Feb 20, 2022 8:22 AM PST
I would love to hear a quick blurb in your upcoming review about how this compares to the LG HU810PW and the Optoma UHZ50!
I'm building out a HT / multi-purpose room in my basement and settled on wanting a laser vs bulb (aka no 5050ub). With that in mind I'm really curious if this is worth it to stretch my budget.The $3K mark seemed like the best bang per buck point on the curve but this could potentially push this out. Hence why I'm curious in that specific comparison vs HU810PW and UHZ50. Also really curious if the 20ms lag holds up in all modes as I'll be 40% gaming and some other mix of movies and live sports. Looking forward to the review!
I'm building out a HT / multi-purpose room in my basement and settled on wanting a laser vs bulb (aka no 5050ub). With that in mind I'm really curious if this is worth it to stretch my budget.The $3K mark seemed like the best bang per buck point on the curve but this could potentially push this out. Hence why I'm curious in that specific comparison vs HU810PW and UHZ50. Also really curious if the 20ms lag holds up in all modes as I'll be 40% gaming and some other mix of movies and live sports. Looking forward to the review!
Alex Posted Feb 20, 2022 1:10 PM PST
Rob, Thank you for the great explanation about rainbow effects. I was worried after I read Mark's review of the Hisense L9G but I see now that the reason it can be a problem with the L9G is 3 lasers + 1 chip as opposed to having 1 laster + 3 chips with the Epson.
A couple more requests for the Epson LS12000 review ... Please check whether it has "a high pitched whine associated with the lasers" - that you refer to in your review of the JVC DLA-NZ7 (but not exhibited by that model). And, if you could also check out the fan noise in "High Altitude" mode. Not looking for specific numbers here - just a subjective "This unit is comparable/better/worse" than other projectors in the $5K-$10K range. Thanks again!
A couple more requests for the Epson LS12000 review ... Please check whether it has "a high pitched whine associated with the lasers" - that you refer to in your review of the JVC DLA-NZ7 (but not exhibited by that model). And, if you could also check out the fan noise in "High Altitude" mode. Not looking for specific numbers here - just a subjective "This unit is comparable/better/worse" than other projectors in the $5K-$10K range. Thanks again!
Erich Posted Feb 20, 2022 7:32 PM PST
I am super excited for your upcoming review of the LS12000. Can you please let us know how loud this will be in high altitude mode along with 100% laser? I currently run an Epson 5040UB, and high lamp + high altitude is slightly noisy but not really distracting. I am hoping this new one will be as quiet. Also, any ETA on when the review will be pushed out?
Thanks for all of your hard work.
Thanks for all of your hard work.
Benevolent Posted Feb 25, 2022 11:38 AM PST
I'm very excited for the upcoming review. Can you comment on the black floor for the LS12000 vs the 6050ub please? I'd like to know if dark scenes will have deeper blacks.
Rob Sabin, Editor Posted Feb 28, 2022 6:53 PM PST
As noted at the end of the article, "The Pro Cinema LS12000 laser projector is available now through Epson's website, Magnolia stores, and CEDIA dealers.
Rich Posted Mar 3, 2022 4:26 PM PST
Hey guys! Super excited for your review on this projector. I've just started looking for a new projector and my eye has been on the Sony VPLVW325ES. Seeing as they are in the same price range, I hope you guys do some direct comparisons. Either way, thanks for always doing a great job!
Tairan Posted Mar 4, 2022 9:00 AM PST
You might want to update your "Compare Projectors" features list on Proj. Central website to show Anamophic ready, and Lens memory. Would be nice to have a column to distinguish Iris dimming vs laser dimming
Rob Sabin, Editor Posted Mar 4, 2022 11:46 AM PST
Tairan, we actually do have the ability to search for these features in our Find a Projector database search. Go to the section below the main drop downs and click on the + for Features/Function. Check off the boxes for Lens Memory and Anamorphic Ready and hit the Update Search Results button. You'll see those very few models with both features populate the search results, mostly JVCs, Sonys, and Epsons. You can also order the results by First Ship Date to see the most current models at the top. At the moment, I'm not seeing the LS12000 come up, however, so we'll look into that. It's a new model and sometimes some of the features aren't clear to us when we first upload the data.
Jim Posted Mar 5, 2022 12:27 PM PST
I’m guessing since VRR isn’t mentioned it’s more than likely not happening right? Do you think this will be inherent to most projectors in the near future?
Rob Sabin, Editor Posted Mar 5, 2022 12:29 PM PST
Based on it not being mentioned I would assume it is not a feature, but we will confirm this for our review.
Marcelo Posted Mar 5, 2022 12:59 PM PST
It would be interesting to have a comparison of LS12000 x Sim2 Hg4. Your reviews are always the best one, Congrats
Christos Michalopoulos Posted Mar 6, 2022 1:47 AM PST
In LS12000 Specifications I am reading: Video Modes: 720p, 1080i, 1080p/60, 576i, 576p, 480p, 480i Data Modes: MAX 4096x2160
That means Epson LS12000 can not input UHD 3840x2160, or 4096x2160 video. Correct?
That means Epson LS12000 can not input UHD 3840x2160, or 4096x2160 video. Correct?
Rob Sabin, Editor Posted Mar 6, 2022 9:20 AM PST
That's not accurate, Christos, it's a 4K compatible projector that accepts signals up to 4096x2160.
Babs Posted Mar 7, 2022 3:03 PM PST
Hi Everyone,
Any idea on when we might see the official review? I’ve been devouring everything I can find on this unit as I try to decide between it and the Cinebeam HU810PW/B.
I’m hesitant to pull the trigger on HU810 just incase a refreshed version is on the horizon and I’m hesitant to jump on the LS12000 as it may be more than I need. Any whisperings that Lg will release a simplified version of the LS12000 similar to what was done with the HU810?
For the average user will I notice that much difference in the picture between the LS and the HU?
This is for a main level family room with moderate ambient light that can be controlled with shutters. It will be replacing a well loved but aging 7 year old Epson HC 3500 that I also purchased based on your glowing reviews.
Thanks!
Any idea on when we might see the official review? I’ve been devouring everything I can find on this unit as I try to decide between it and the Cinebeam HU810PW/B.
I’m hesitant to pull the trigger on HU810 just incase a refreshed version is on the horizon and I’m hesitant to jump on the LS12000 as it may be more than I need. Any whisperings that Lg will release a simplified version of the LS12000 similar to what was done with the HU810?
For the average user will I notice that much difference in the picture between the LS and the HU?
This is for a main level family room with moderate ambient light that can be controlled with shutters. It will be replacing a well loved but aging 7 year old Epson HC 3500 that I also purchased based on your glowing reviews.
Thanks!
Dave Grace Posted Mar 10, 2022 12:04 PM PST
My ancient Panasonic PT-AE3000U has been soldiering on for over a decade while I've waited for a non-DLP 4K replacement, since I seem to be very sensitive to rainbow artifacts. I'd been looking at the Epson 5050 but hoping for a non-lamp option, so the LS12000 may be the projector I've literally been waiting years for. Looking forward to your review.
Barney Benkle Posted Mar 10, 2022 5:27 PM PST
Guys, awesome review! The multiple side by side comparisons to the so-called "best in class" projectors, costing in the 10-15K range, and even up to 24K in one instance, show just how far Epson has risen to the top!!!
Benevolent Posted Mar 14, 2022 8:26 AM PST
When will the review be posted? If it is posted I'm unable to find it.
Rob Sabin, Editor Posted Mar 14, 2022 9:38 AM PST
Sorry, not out yet. Hoping for late this week, possibly early next week at the latest.
Philip Menne Posted Mar 20, 2022 7:59 PM PST
I already own a pixel-shifting JVC DLA-X790R with 3D that I use to view my extensive 3D collection (and non-3D material). I plan to buy the LS12000 and mount it under my JVC that sits on a wall extended shelf. There are such a limited number of 3D movies. For my extensive non-3D collection, I look forward to the increased brightness and resolution on my 120 inch 1.1 gain Elite motorized screen. I am anxious and curious how the resolution and brightness will compare with my JVC. I look forward to an extensive review. Projector Central is my favorite go-to for projection information!
