Ultrashort-throw (UST) projectors offer more flexibility than traditional (long-throw) models. No one can ever step in front of one and block the projection, since the unit doesn’t require distance and can sit up close to the screen rather than at the back of the room. This also lets all your streaming gear, a soundbar, and a game console connect close to the screen.
At $3,800, the Epson Lifestudio Grand Plus (LS970) short-throw projector has a higher price tag than the Epson Lifestudio Grand released last year. The Grand Plus specs are a big leap forward over that model as well: a 150-inch image instead of 120 inches, and 4,000 lumens of brightness instead of 3,600.
Minus a few quirks, it’s a strong home cinema projector, but Epson also makes a better option, the long-throw Pro Cinema LS9000, that costs only $200 more and is easier to configure. Also, the Leica Cine Play 1, another long-throw projector, outputs even more vibrant colors. Ultimately, it comes down to a choice between short-throw and long-throw, and the Grand Plus certainly suffers from quirks, including keystoning and casting issues. On the plus side, the Grand Plus puts out great picture quality and supports Google Gemini, which is a killer feature.
Getting It All Configured
I won’t mince words: The setup process is confusing. The Grand Plus is big, heavy, and fussy about where you place it—usually about a foot away from the wall or screen. I had to experiment with the placement until it was just right, and even then, the image setup is cumbersome and time-consuming. In comparison, the Leica Cine Play 1 and the Soundcore Nebula P1 auto-keystoning software instantly adjust the picture with virtually no manual setup—turn it on, and you’re done. The Grand Plus’ software feels outdated, and I also didn’t like how easy it was to bump the power button on the side and turn it off.
Photograph: John Brandon
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