Epson Launches EH-LS970B/W Ultra-Short-Throw 4K Laser Projector with 120-Inch Image from 17.5 cm, Plus EF-73 Lifestudio Flex Special Edition
By HiFi Editorial24 February 2026
Key Highlights
Epson launches two home projectors: ultra-short-throw Lifestudio Grand Plus EH-LS970B/W on March 12, and design-focused EF-73 on April 9, Japan.
EH-LS970B/W projects 120-inch images from ~17.5 cm, up to 150 inches, using 3LCD, laser light source, 4,000-lumen brightness, and proprietary 2-axis 4K enhancement.
EH-LS970B/W supports Google TV, Wi‑Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, three HDMI ports with eARC, 20 ms low-latency gaming, and 2.1ch 20 W BOSE speakers.
Epson’s approach splits cleanly into two schools of thought: brute-force living‑room cinema versus domesticated lifestyle display. The ultra‑short‑throw model leans heavily on optical discipline rather than digital trickery alone. Beyond the pixel‑shifting headline, the practical wins are mechanical—side‑mounted focus control that avoids menu diving, app‑assisted geometric correction for imperfect furniture placement, and a proximity sensor that throttles light output when someone crosses the beam. Noise and thermal management are also telling; the low acoustic floor and hefty power budget underline that this is a laser engine tuned for sustained brightness rather than bursty “spec sheet” output. In forum terms, it’s the difference between a projector that tolerates daylight viewing without collapsing contrast, and one that merely survives it.
