CES 2023: Leica Cine 1 Laser TV Might Be the Best UST

Not every collaboration is dressed for success, but we suspect that the new Leica Cine 1 Laser TV developed in partnership with Hisense might be an ultra-short throw projector worth looking at in 2023. The legendary German camera and optics manufacturer didn’t slap its logo on the side of a rebadged Hisense UST projector and go out for schnitzel. It developed some of the key components and optics to make the Cine 1 worthy of its lofty price tag, which starts at $8,295 USD for the version compatible with 100-inch screens.

The 120-inch model will sell for $8,995, which would make the Leica Cine 1 the most expensive UST among currently available models. Although that might seem like a steep premium to pay — the precision engineered metal case looks like something Apple wishes that it can produce.

Leica Cine 1 is encased in a silver aluminum body with a slim, automatic retracting dust cover for optimum lens protection. Industrial design details such as perforated plates on the front and on the sides improve both audio output and ventilation.

Despite the screen size difference, we’re told models are exactly the same, except for slightly adjusted optics. Each uses a Summicron lens that is precisely matched to image size to ensure consistently high imaging performance. Although optics are not developed by Leica, they comply with the Leica specification and quality standards for a Summicron lens.

In addition, the Cine 1 uses the brand’s own image processing (Leica Image Optimization – LIO™) to optimize picture quality with special algorithms, thus achieving particularly natural color reproduction, detailed color gradations, and excellent contrast transfer.

Finally, “reference” quality picture is supported by an integrated, high-performance Dolby Atmos audio system for the perfect home cinema experience.

The Leica Cine 1 uses a .47 sized DLP chip with triple-RGB laser technology to deliver particularly bright images over a service life of 25,000 hours. Boasting industry-leading optics, Leica claims the projected image of the Leica Cine 1 is considerably less fatiguing for the eyes than conventional TV displays, allowing for longer home cinema nights.

In addition to its technical specifications, the Leica Cine 1 also impresses regarding energy consumption and design. Short-range laser technology consumes significantly less energy than an OLED TV of a comparable size.

“In the future, optical expertise will become a key success factor in the TV market, the largest consumer electronics market in the world with over $100 billion in annual sales. I am therefore proud that, in cooperation with our strategic partner and on the basis of our world-leading optical expertise, we have succeeded in creating an extraordinary product with the Cine 1: ‘Optical high-tech meets design.’ With the Cine 1, consumers can experience cinematic pleasure in the comfort of their own homes at the highest levels of audio/video performance,” explained Matthias Harsch, CEO of Leica Camera AG.

The approx. 24 x 16 x 6 inch projector can easily be integrated into the design of any room and offers an interesting alternative to more heavy and dominant LED displays. Although a projection screen is not included, Leica is considering whether to sell one separately.

Specifications

Price & Availability

The Leica Cine 1 will be available in Europe in spring 2023, and U.S. customers will have to wait until Q3 2023.

• Leica Cine 1 – 100: $8,295
• Leica Cine 1 – 120: $8,995

For more information: leica-lasertv.com

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