BenQ’s New CinePrime HT5550 4K Projector Hits Store Shelves
Several highlights for the HT5550 include the company’s CinematicColor technology, which is claimed to cover 100% of the DCI-P3 wide color space, and support for both HDR10 and Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) High Dynamic Range formats. As discussed in our coverage of Epson’s latest projector models – the 5050UB and 5050UBe – proper tone mapping has also been placed at the forefront. In the case of the HT5550, BenQ relies on its native HDR-PRO processor to reproduce the best HDR image automatically.
One interesting aspect related to the projector's CinematicColor technology is a factory calibrated D65 white point, along with grey scale calibration, performed by THX and ISF certified engineers. This is a handy and unique feature that delivers a projector tuned to Hollywood specifications for both DCI-P3 and Rec. 709 output. Simply put: it means all HT5550 projectors can be unboxed and used without the hassle and expense of time-consuming calibration procedures.
For those of you that like to tweak output, the HT5550 can be quickly customized for both daytime and nighttime viewing using the included Imaging Science Foundation’s ISF Calibration Mode.
The HT5550 ships with dual HDMI 2.0 ports, both of which are compliant with HDCP 2.2 copy protection, 3.5mm analog and digital optical outputs, and a USB 3.0 port. And the included bulb (rated for 4,000 hours) can produce 1,800 lumens, while the 11 layer 1.6X zoom lens offers both +/- 60% vertical and +/- 23% horizontal shift.
Unlike Epson’s 5050UB projectors, the HT5550 relies on DLP technology. So, be forewarned if you’re susceptible to the rainbow effect or color image artifacts.
For more information about the HT5550, visit BenQ on the web.