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April 28, 2009

Epson Ensemble HD Movie System

Do you want to put in a projection AV system, but don't know where to start? Epson recently launched a prepackaged system that includes:
- projector,
- 100" motorized screen,
- AV controller,
- surround audio system with subwoofer,
- and a universal remote control.

(See more high-end theaters at HGTVPro's 4th Trade)

The front speakers -- left, right and center -- are in the motorized screen housing, and the surround speakers are mounted in a cradle that holds the projector. The zoom lens on the projector allows installation anywhere from 11 to 19 feet from the screen.

The subwoofer is a separate component. All of the speakers are made by Atlantic Technology; you may not be familiar with this brand, but they have been making quality loudspeakers for years.

Epson includes all of the wires and cables that are needed to connect the various components -- along with a cable management system to conceal the wires. Just add sources such as:
- game system,
- DVD player,
- either cable or satellite.

There are thee choices for projectors; prices range from $4,699 to $7,999 for the complete kit. The $4,699 system has a 720p projector (Epson PowerLite Home Cinema 720p), the top two systems have higher-resolution 1080p projectors (Epson PowerLite Home Cinema 6100 or 6500UB)

I have not tested this system or even seen one in action, it just recently started to ship, but I have had positive experiences with other Epson home theater projectors and with Atlantic Technology speakers.

If you want a projection home theater system without the hassle of picking all of the components, you might want to check out the Epson Ensemble HD.

Posted by Bob Gatton at April 28, 2009 9:08 AM