CES 2004: This is definitely a first for DPReview, a TV!! Epson America has launched two new rear projection HDTV LCD televisions that allow users to print out digital photographs without the use of a PC. The Livingstation televisions enable users to view, print and store digital photos through the use of a universal remote control. Epson's LCD technology and Photo On Demand capability, along with slots for memory cards and a built-in dye sublimation printer, mean that users do not need a PC to make the most of their digital photos. Available from March 2004, the 47-inch model will retail for $3,499, and the 57-inch model for $3,999.

Press Release:

Epson Unveils Industry's First Widescreen HDTV LCD Projection Televisions with Integrated Digital Photo Center

Livingstation(TM) Converges Epson's Renowned LCD Technology with Advanced Digital Photo Capabilities for Unique Home Entertainment Experience

Epson America Inc. expands its presence in the home entertainment market with its introduction of two Epson Livingstation HDTV LCD projection televisions -- the EPSON Livingstation LS47P1 and EPSON Livingstation LS57P1. Home entertainment enthusiasts can take advantage of superior image quality and true digital output with its 720p resolution, thanks to Epson's patented LCD technology. Additionally, with Epson's proprietary Photo On Demand(TM) capability, users can now view, print and store their digital photos from an easy-to-use universal remote control.
Epson is a recognized industry leader in LCD technology and the Livingstation capitalizes on this expertise and delivers a dramatic and vivid cinematic experience to the consumer in two screen sizes, 47 and 57 inches. With three LCD panels, 1280 x 720 native resolution and a 16:9 native aspect ratio, the Livingstation's wide screen produces unparalleled image quality. Additionally, the Livingstation has one of the thinnest profiles of any rear projection television currently available, measuring only 14.9 inches deep for the 47-inch model and 16.3 inches deep for the 57-inch model.

Proprietary Photo On Demand(TM) Technology

Epson's Photo On Demand(TM) technology is a first, enabling consumers to view, print and store their digital photos directly from the TV without the need for a PC. Slots for popular memory cards, including SD(TM) memory card/MultiMediaCard(TM), Memory Stick(R), Compact Flash(TM) and SmartMedia(TM) enable users to quickly and easily view their digital photos. A very quiet, built-in dye sublimation photo quality printer produces borderless 4"x6" prints. Archiving is made simple with the included CD-R/RW drive. Photo On Demand enables users to enjoy and manage their digital photos from the living room, making digital photography a social experience.
"Epson's reputation for outstanding digital imaging solutions make the Livingstation line a logical next step," said Rajeev Mishra, director, Home Entertainment Division, Epson. "The stunning video quality, elegant thin profile design, and built-in digital photo lab make the Livingstation a unique convergence device and an ideal display hub for the home entertainment center."

Other Notable Features

Thanks to the wide range of connectivity options, the Livingstation products support numerous devices including DVI based set-top boxes, progressive scan DVD players, HDTV tuners, camcorders, video games, and even PCs. Its picture-on-picture feature gives viewers options for viewing their favorite programs, while the channel zapping feature enables them to see seven smaller windows simultaneously to explore many programs as still pictures. The Livingstation also incorporates a "Freeze Image" feature that allows users to freeze video, live TV or other digital images and then print them from the built-in printer. Unlike most LCD and DLP projection televisions currently on the market, the lamp can be conveniently replaced by the user from the front.
Shipping in March 2004, the estimated retail prices for the 47- and 57-inch models are $3,499 and $3,999, respectively.

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