[Update 07jun05: more from ultimate AV]

LCOS is a famously hard technology to get right. Intel announced that they were getting into LCOS but then shelved the project. Toshiba tried a couple LCOS sets that were actually released to market, but gave up on them too. Sony is making a successful LCOS run with their SXRD technology, which is basically their version of LCOS. And JVC is doing the same with D-ILA, another LCOS product.

Now Hitachi is getting into the act with some 1080p LCOS sets. It sounds like they’ll be great sets to match with the PS3, which can output 1080p signals. It doesn’t say in the article, but hopefully they accept a full 1080p signal, which is something Sony’s Qualia sets don’t (even though they’re 1080p displays).

Highlighting the rear projection offerings this year are three 1080p LCoS HDTV sets using the CineForm light-engine design that allows reduced cabinet height, for a true flat-panel look when viewed straight on.

All three LCoS models include fully integrated ATSC tuning, digital CableCARD slots, TV Guide On-Screen electronic program guides, IEEE-1394 and HDMI inputs.

Sets will be offered in the 60W- and 70W-inch 16:9 screen sizes. One of each is included the high-end Director’s Series, which is restricted to select A/V specialty dealers, and one 60W-inch model will be offered as a regional exclusive piece to qualifying CE and TV appliance accounts.

“We are concentrating on larger screen sizes [for LCoS] because we believe there is a collision coming with 42W- and 50W-inch plasma models, and in those screen sizes plasma will ultimate win over any microdisplay product” at comparable price points, Delaney said.

The CineForm 60T925 LCoS model (November, $5,299) features a 60W-inch 16:9 screen, 1080p resolution, dual focus lens system, CineForm cosmetics, and IEEE 1394 input.

In the Director’s Series, the LCoS units are offered in place of LCD-based micro-display rear projection sets offered last year. Models include the CineForm 60W-inch 60X927 (November, $6,499) and the 70W-inch (December, $8,499). Both add to the T925 feature package a learning AV NET IV system with simple remote, Digital Color Management III system that can store two settings – one for photo memory card input and one for other video sources – and Custom Color Temperature controls with four memories.

Link: Twice - Hitachi Line Adds LCoS RPTV Sets