Christie's has once again added to their line of video projectors with the versatile new AP Series offering a powerful package of high performance, innovative features and low cost of ownership. At first glance, it appears these small, feature-packed projectors offer many potential uses in churches all across the world.
There are currently two models in the AP series. Both models employ three-chip inorganic LCD engines producing 5,000 lumens. They also have a full set of input connectors offering everything from composite video to HDMI and HDBaseT as well as VGA. They also have RS232C control along with IP network capabilities. They both come with a manual zoom lens and use a 300W UHB mercury arc lamp that is rated at 4,000 hours in normal mode and 6,000 hours in Eco mode.
These models are marketed as solutions for boardrooms, classrooms and conference rooms. I would also add small to medium-sized churches, portable churches and a variety of other portable applications. The small size of this projector opens up a lot of options. It is about the foot print of a legal pad at 13 x 18 x 5 inches. And weighing in at about 15 lbs. it is small enough to easily fit in a suitcase and transport without a full road case. It is also light enough for nearly anyone to carry and easily move.
As for the differences between the two models, the LW502 is a native 1200x800 WXGA with a 5,000:1 contrast ratio and the LCD panels in this model measure in at .59 inches. The LWU502 is a native 1920x1200 WUXGA with a 10,000:1 contrast ratio and the LCD panels are slightly larger at .67 inches. The other notable feature with the LWU502 is it has lens shift. Both offer a small 16-Watt internal audio system
Another very interesting addition to the feature set is the edge blend and warping capabilities. These features allow easy implementation of sophisticated digital backgrounds, eye candy and stage décor using multiple projectors.
The physical size of the projector coupled with the 5,000-lumen output make it very versatile for almost any environment. For those of us working in the church market, the uses are nearly endless: children, youth, and adult spaces, along with a wide range of permanent and portable applications.
Only 10 years ago a 5,000-lumen projector would have been out of reach for most churches and would have been only used in large spaces or concert venues. Fast-forward to today and introduction of Christie AP Series gives us the features churches need and want as well as the lumen output for a cost that is very affordable. The LW502 has a list price of $2,675, and the
LWU502 lists for $2,999.
In conclusion the new AP Series projectors from Christie appear to be versatile, full of advanced features and are available a price point that should make them accessible to a wide range of churches --- especially as a growing number of churches use media and created content to convey the message of Christ.
