The home-theater-in-a-box concept just got an extreme makeover. The philosophy behind the all-in-one system was always a valid one: Create for consumers a single package that includes the necessary audio and video components for a complete home theater experience, designed and programmed to intuitively work together so that it’s as easy to set up and use as possible.
The problem is, in implementation, this genre quickly devolved into a super-low-end A/V solution that often provided less-than-stellar performance. With the new Ensemble HD system, Epson and partner Atlantic Technology reintroduce the all-in-one concept to serious home theater fans who value high performance, integrated design, and intuitive use.
This complete solution includes an Epson LCD projector; a 5.1-channel Atlantic Tech speaker system; an AV Controller with a built-in DVD player; a 100-inch-diagonal, motorized screen with a 1.0 gain; and a universal remote control. The catch is, these aren’t simply individual components being marketed together; rather, the various pieces are designed to integrate seamlessly with one another.
For instance, take a close look at the chassis that holds the motorized screen, and you’ll see that it contains the front, center, and right speakers. The surround speakers, meanwhile, are integrated into the projector cabinet that mounts to your ceiling.
The AV Controller includes a 1080p upconverting DVD player, an AM/FM tuner, and a receiver with Dolby Digital 5.1, DPLIIx, and DTS decoding. The input panel is solid but not as extensive as you’ll find on a standalone receiver: Highlights include two HDMI and one component video input to attach additional HD sources, like a Blu-ray player or cable/satellite set-top box; two digital audio inputs; an auxiliary input to connect an iPod or other audio device; and a USB port for photo playback.
If you choose to add a Blu-ray player, take note that the Controller doesn’t contain its own high-resolution audio decoders; and, while the HDMI inputs will accept multichannel PCM audio from an external player, the Controller outputs that signal in DPLII mode.
The subwoofer is the power hub of the system. It’s 350 watts of amplification power from its own 10-inch woofer and the five speakers, and it also provides power for the projector and motorized screen.
Proprietary, color-coded cables run from the subwoofer to the screen chassis and then on to the projector. You can run these cables through your walls, or – for an even simpler install – the system includes discreet cable-management tracks that affix to the walls.
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