I had an interesting chat today with an insider connected within the commercial side of cinemas. The discussion centered around projection technology and upcoming advancements then naturally progressed to videowalls. Im thinking, I don't think I'm alone, video projection days are numbered. He then pointed out something that seamed so obvious when spelled out. RGB Laser projectors are somewhere around 75% more efficient verses a xenon or lamp based projector and less heat. The commercial cinema industry is heavily invested in the conversion to laser and all its advantages, rightly so. I dont think there is a downside. Installing a Videowall on the other hand would be going backwards. Not only are they the LEAST efficient, they win the title for breaking the bank regarding the utility bill. Add to this, the additional cooling needed to cool the room. A cinema may never break even running just one wall within a multi-plex. This person feels projection will dominate another 10 to 20 years. There are some interesting advancements coming next year from Christie and Barco. Some of which will eventually trickle down to consumer products.
Videowalls have their place in a well light lit environment. Being they are in their infancy I'm sure we will see advancements at fast pace for several years to come. I love projection, I love the cinematic atmosphere that I feel you can only get from projection. If there is a moral to the story, that would be don't shy away from purchasing a new projector or staying with projection. At least for the time being, you are part of the larger majority.
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