Epson PowerLite Pro Cinema LS9600e vs LS10000 vs LS12000B (2023 Update)
Epson released the PowerLite Pro Cinema LS9600e (2014) and LS10000 (2016), two high-end home theater projectors that were praised for their image quality, performance, and features. In 2023, Epson has released the LS12000B, which is an updated version of the LS10000. This review compares the LS9600e, LS10000, and LS12000B to help you decide which projector is right for you. Side note: The earlier models have been discontinued but you can still locate them in a few places, or secondhand. The more research, the merrier, we say!
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Specifications
Let’s get the facts and figures out of the way first:
| Feature | LS9600e | LS10000 | LS12000B |
| Resolution | 1080p | 4K Enhanced | 4K Enhanced |
| Brightness in lumens | 1200 | 1500 | 2700 |
| Contrast ratio | 1,500,000:1 | 2,500,000:1 | 2,500,000:1 |
| Color gamut | 96% Rec. 709 | 100% Rec. 709 | 100% Rec. 709 |
| Lamp life | 3,000 hours | 10,000 hours | 20,000 hours |
| Lens shift | 1.1x vertical, 2.2x horizontal | 1.1x vertical, 2.2x horizontal | 1.1x vertical, 2.2x horizontal |
| Weight | 11.34kg | 12.25 kg | 13.61 kg |
Image Quality
All three projectors offer excellent image quality, but the LS12000B has a slight edge over the other two models. The LS12000B has a higher contrast ratio and a wider color gamut, which results in deeper blacks and more vibrant colors. The LS12000B also has a longer lamp life, so you won’t have to replace the lamp as often.
Performance
All three projectors perform well, but the LS12000B has a slight edge over the other two models. The LS12000B has a faster processor, which results in smoother motion and faster response times. The LS12000B also has a wider range of connectivity options, so you can connect it to a wider variety of devices.
Features
All three projectors offer a variety of features, but the LS12000B has a few more features than the other two models. The LS12000B has a built-in speaker, which is convenient if you don’t have a separate sound system. The LS12000B also has a 2D-to-3D converter, so you can watch 2D movies in 3D.
The Upshot
The Epson PowerLite Pro Cinema LS9600e, LS10000, and LS12000B are all excellent projectors. The LS9600e is a great value for the price, while the LS10000 offers a few more features and better image quality. The LS12000B is obviously the best of the three models, but it is also the most expensive, coming in at an eye-watering $AUD9000 (USD5000).
Decisions Decisions
Which projector is right for you?
The Epson PowerLite Pro Cinema LS9600e is a great option for those on a budget who are looking for excellent image quality. It offers a native 1080p resolution, 1300 lumens of brightness, and a 20,000:1 contrast ratio. This projector is also equipped with a variety of features that make it a great choice for home theater use, including a motorized zoom lens, a 1.6x optical zoom, and a variety of image adjustment settings.
The Epson PowerLite Pro Cinema LS10000 is a step up from the LS9600e, offering a few more features and better image quality. It has a native 4K resolution, 2400 lumens of brightness, and a 30,000:1 contrast ratio. It also has a wider color gamut and a higher dynamic range than the LS9600e, which results in more realistic and immersive images.
The Epson PowerLite Pro Cinema LS12000B is the best option for those who are looking for the best possible image quality and performance. It has a native 4K resolution, 4000 lumens of brightness, and a 40,000:1 contrast ratio. It also has a wider color gamut and a higher dynamic range than the LS10000, resulting in even more realistic and immersive images.
All three of these projectors are great options for home theater use, but they offer different levels of performance and features. The Epson PowerLite Pro Cinema LS9600e is a great value for those on a budget, while the Epson PowerLite Pro Cinema LS10000 and LS12000B offer better image quality and performance for those who are willing to pay more.
Where Can I Find Them?
If you’re actively trying to avoid paying top dollar for your next projector, we recommend sniffing around the following places online:
- Ebay: As always, a great place to find used and refurbished projectors. There are often many different models available, and prices can vary widely. Check out the special prices on Ebay electronics.
- Amazon: It can be more difficult to find the older models on Amazon but you really can’t beat their delivery options for the latest models. Prices are may be higher than on Ebay, but you get the protection of Amazon’s delivery and returns policies. Check out the range of projectors available now on Amazon with fast delivery.
- Epson: If you like your expensive kit direct from the source, then Epson is the place for you.
Buyer Beware
We don’t have to tell you twice the importance of keeping your head on a swivel when you buy an older model of projector. Read reviews, price it out and make sure you can get support or parts. Some manufacturers will no longer provide support for older models, conveniently forcing upgrades, which can make it difficult to get repairs or replacement parts if something goes wrong. Epson continues to evolve with the new range of “lamp free” projectors making sure that real home cinema is in the reach of the average household.