The Hisense PX2-PRO is the company's followup to its award-winning PX1-PRO.
The Hisense PX2-PRO Laser Cinema ultra short throw (UST) projector has an MSRP of $2999. It can deliver 4K (3840 x 2160p) onscreen resolution, and its TriChroma RGB triple laser light source can reproduce 107% of the BT.2020 color space and 2400 ANSI lumens of brightness. The PX2-PRO also supports Dolby Vision HDR with Dolby Atmos sound and is equipped with the newest Google TV OS.
Ultra short throw projectors are changing the home theater experience, offering massive, cinema-like images within inches of your wall. Hisense has been at the forefront of this technology, and its latest release, the PX2-PRO, represents another exciting step forward for the company's line of award-winning Laser Cinema branded projectors.
The Hisense PX2-PRO, the company's sixth-generation UST projector, is a Laser Cinema model. Hisense Laser Cinema and Laser TV projectors are similar but in different ultra short throw projector categories. The primary difference is that Hisense Laser Cinema projectors don't have a bundled projection screen. With Laser Cinema projectors, you are free to select whatever brand and size of screen you want because, unlike the company's Laser TV products, Laser Cinema projectors can digitally adjust focus for any size screen as long as it is within the projectors through ratio limits. Customers who buy Hisense Laser Cinema projectors are not locked into a screen of limited size and type.
The Hisense PX2-PRO is an incremental but significant update to last year's exceptional PX1-PRO. Some key upgrades from the PX1-PRO are a new Google TV OS, improved brightness and contrast, and a $500 savings compared to last year's model.
Let's examine the Hisense PX2-PRO closer and see how it performs on the test bench.
Hisense PX2-PRO Specs
Price
$2,999 MSRP
Technology
DLP
Displayed Resolution
4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160)
Brightness (Manufacturer Claim
2400 ANSI Lumens
Light Source
RGB laser
Contrast
3,000,000:1 (Dynamic)
Zoom Lens Ratio
Fixed
Sound System6
30 Watt Dolby Atmos
Dimensions
(LxWxH) 20.5″ x 12.8″ x 6.3″
Weight
20.3 lbs.
Overview
Utilizing Ultra Short Throw Technology, the PX2-PRO creates vivid, lifelike images, from 90-inch to a giant 130-inch.
ultra short throw (UST) projectors are increasingly considered viable replacements for traditional living room televisions. Advancements in light sources, imaging sensors, processing technologies, and decreasing component costs drive their popularity. The ever-increasing list of mainstream and boutique brands offering ultra short throw projectors is impressive. New competition drives innovation, and, in this regard, the Hisense brand continues to be an industry leader.
The Hisense PX2-PRO utilizes a Texas Instruments Digital Light Processor (DLP) (0.47″ DMD) chip to deliver 4K UHD (3840 x 2,160) resolution. The 0.47″ DLP chip has 2.2 million pixels, or in this case, micromirrors with a native resolution of 1920 x 1080p. Hisense uses Texas Instruments XPR technology to shift the light from each mirror 4X, displaying four distinct pixels on the screen. The fact that most people don't see a resolution difference between a pixel-shifting 4K projector and a native 4K projector is a testament to how good modern pixel-shifting technology is.
The Hisense PX2-PRO's DLP system is sealed, keeping dust and dirt away from sensitive components. A sealed light engine prevents dust particles from settling inside the light path. Enclosing these critical components maximizes the projector's life expectancy, crucial for a display that replaces the living room TV.
Hisense offers both Laser TV and Laser Cinema projectors, a distinction based on bundling. Laser TV-designated projectors come with a screen and typically provide higher brightness than their Laser Cinema counterparts.
Laser Cinema projectors are not locked into a specific screen size because they feature a variable focus adjustment, allowing them to project an image anywhere within the manufacturer's screen size range. Hisense Laser TV projectors come from the factory packaged with a specific screen size and type.
Below is a feature and pricing comparison chart for current Hisense Laser Cinema models other than the PX2-PRO and two Laser TV models. Remember, Laser TVs are packaged with a screen, resulting in a higher cost to the consumer. Prices will vary depending on the size and type of screen in the package.
Hisense 2024 Laser Cinema Projectors
PL1
PX2-PRO
New Google TV OS
New Google TV OS
2200 ANSI Lumens
2400 ANSI Lumens
X-Fusion Blue Laser Phosphor Light Source
TriChroma RGB Laser Light Source
HDR10, Dolby Vision and HLG HDR
HDR10, Dolby Vision and HLG HDR
2,000,000:1 Dynamic Contrast
3,000,000:1 Dynamic Contrast
Project an image between 80 to 120 inches
Project an image between 90 to 130 inches
30 Watt Dolby Atmos
30 Watt Dolby Atmos
(WxDxH) 20.9 x 13.2 x 4.7 inches
(WxDxH) 20.5″ x 12.8″ x 6.3″
17 lbs.
20.3 lbs.
The Hisense TriChroma laser light source can produce true-to-life colors with exceptional vibrancy
The Hisense PX2-PRO features a TriChroma RGB laser light source that offers a key advantage in replacing flat-panel TVs – brightness. With around 2,400 ANSI lumens of manufacturer-rated brightness, this projector delivers a clear, vibrant image even with a decent amount of uncontrolled ambient light, making it a great choice for lights-on viewing. The image is even better when paired with a high-gain Ambient Light Rejecting (ALR) screen. This projector's TriChroma laser's high brightness can overcome many washout effects that can negatively impact the picture quality of some traditional projectors in well-lit rooms.
While brightness is a major advantage, the TriChroma triple laser light engine used in the PX2-PRO offers several other critical benefits for picture quality. Most importantly, the TriChroma light source can display a significantly wider, more accurate color gamut than a traditional lamp or single laser projector, providing about 107% of the BT.2020 color space. The Hisense TriChroma laser light source can produce true-to-life colors with exceptional vibrancy and depth with separate red, green, and blue lasers. The ability to cover the BT.2020 color gamut translates to more realistic skin tones, richer natural landscapes, and a more immersive cinematic experience. Laser light sources have a much longer lifespan than traditional lamps at about 20,000 hours at full light output. These newer laser light sources ensure consistent image quality over the projector's life with no noticeable brightness or color degradation.
Colors so vibrant they pull players into the game!
Movies and TV shows, mastered in the BT.2020 color space, display a wider array of colors and greater tonal detail, creating a realistic, immersive experience unavailable on projectors with more narrow color gamuts. For example, nature documentaries will accurately showcase the vibrant colors of rainforests and coral reefs. Many modern animated movies also utilize the wider color space in BT.2020, resulting in incredibly rich and impressive visuals.
Next-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X also support wider color gamuts. With games potentially mastered in BT.2020, a compatible projector takes visuals to the next level.
Also, the Hisense PX2-PRO can sit close to the screen while projecting up to a 130-inch image. This critical advantage of ultra short throw projectors allows gamers to sit closer to the screen without interrupting the projected image, creating a more immersive gaming experience.
This new Hisense Laser Cinema projector is powered by the latest Google TV OS, making it a very smart device that gives you access to thousands of the most popular Android applications and a wide range of streaming platforms, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube, and many others.
Google TV organizes movies, shows, and more from your subscriptions, so you no longer need to jump from app to app to find what you want to watch. It provides curated recommendations and uses Google's powerful search to find shows across 10,000+ apps or browse hundreds of free channels.
The Google TV OS also provides access to the Google Assistant, allowing you to use your voice to control many features and verbally navigate many of the projector's menus and features. The PX2-PRO can also control a wide range of compatible smart home devices using your voice via Google Assistant.
The Hisense PX2-PRO includes a built-in, high-quality, 30-watt Dolby Atmos sound that produces a big sound that seems to wrap around you. Hisense Laser Cinema produces better sound than many stand-alone flat-panel televisions and soundbars. The previous model, the PX1-PRO, had an excellent stand-alone sound, so in the PERFORMANCE section, I'll test how this new model compares and if there are any improvements.
With the PX2-PRO's microsecond-level processor response, you will never miss a moment of action. Fast-moving images are buttery smooth and crystal clear, so whether it's sports, games, or action films, the PX2-PRO keeps pace.
When you turn on the PX2-PRO GAME mode, input lag is reduced to 30 – 35 ms when playing 4K 60 Hz. Like the other models in their UST line, the PX2-PRO will also support 1080p@120fps and 1080p@240fps gaming with an input lag as low as 10 ms, which is responsive enough for even the most demanding gamer.
These gaming speeds are incredibly competitive and, in many cases, exceed the competition, especially for a projector that is not a dedicated gaming projector. Hisense has essentially carried over the gaming performance of the previous generation projectors, including the excellent Hisense Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), which automatically triggers GAME mode for both the PS5 and Xbox Series S and X as soon as gaming content is detected.
Next-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5 and the Xbox Series X support 4K@60fps and 1440p@120fps high-frame-rate gaming, while modern gaming computers allow up to 240 Hz gaming at 1080p. However, the PX2-PRO can only display 4K games at a maximum of 60 frames per second, not at 4K@120fps. The PX2-PRO is not a dedicated gaming projector, so it does not support 1440@120fps games. Like most modern 4K home theater projectors, it will upscale or downscale the content based on the user's settings.
HIGHLIGHTS
TriChroma RGB laser light source
Ability to reproduce 107% of the BT.2020 (Rec. 2020) color space
Digital Lens Focus - Project images from 90 to 130 inches diagonally
2400 ANSI lumens of brightness
25,000+ hours of light source life
3,000,000:1 Dynamic contrast ratio
Project and image between 90 to 130 inches
4K UHD (3840 x 2160p) displayed resolution
Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG support
Multiple Picture Preset Modes (4 Dolby Vision, 8 HDR10, and 8 SDR modes) FILMMAKER mode is designed to display content the way the creators intended.
Built-in 30W (15 x2) Stereo Dolby Atmos sound system
Fully integrated Google TV OS with a single remote control
WiSA (Wireless Speaker and Audio Association) ready for multi-channel wireless surround sound system connectivity
Bluetooth functionality allows connecting to peripherals or using the projector sound system as a Bluetooth speaker
2-year parts and labor warranty
HARDWARE
CHASSIS
The PX2-PRO design is identical to last year's PX1-PRO, right down to the color of the projector's exterior. The Hisense PX2-PRO is smaller than the Hisense Laser TV projectors and more metallic-looking. It has well-defined edges and an all-industrial design that looks appealing and stands out from most competitors.
The PX2-PRO measures 20.5″ x 12.8″ x 6.3″ (LxWxH) and weighs 20.3 lbs.
The projector chassis is made from metal and molded plastic parts in primarily two colors. Most of the chassis (top, sides, bottom, and back) are painted a metallic dark silvery gray.
Power On/Off is the only control button on the projector, located on the top of the projector's front/right corner. The remote control must control everything else.
All inputs and connections are on the projector's back panel, except for a single USB on the bottom right side.
The PX2-PRO features three HDMI ports on the projector's rear that support HDMI 2.1 features. HDMI input 2 supports Enhanced Audio Return (eARC) functionality. Theoretically, HDMI 2.1 inputs can support up to 48 Gbps bandwidth for 8K/60p playback and 4K/120p content. While this projector's DLP chip only supports up to 4K@60Hz video playback, these types of HDMI inputs still offer a few notable benefits, including ALLM and eARC.
Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) automatically switches the PX2-PRO to a low-latency, low-lag game mode when game content is detected. When low latency is no longer needed, the source turns off the signal, and the display reverts to its previous mode for watching content such as movies and TV shows, providing an optimized gaming and movie-watching experience.
The PX2-PRO can also control connected devices, such as an A/V receiver, via HDMI Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) to control each connected device.
Other available inputs include a USB 3.0 Type-A and a USB 2.0 Type-A input on the side. The projector also has a LAN port, optical-digital, and L/R analog audio outputs.
The included remote is slim, with a plastic shell sporting a brushed metal look. The built-in media player's power, dedicated service buttons, and major streaming services, including Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, and Disney+, are all on the remote. Bluetooth pairing ensures the projector is controlled even when the remote is not in direct sight of the projector. The remote control includes Infrared (IR), which can work the projector or a third-party cable/satellite box. For custom integration, the PX2-PRO can also be controlled via RS232.
Located at the top center of the remote is a dedicated Google Assistant button for voice control of a wide range of smart features, including—but not limited to—voice search, compatible projector switching, hardware controls, and many Internet of Things-compatible devices.
I found this model's two dedicated shortcut buttons incredibly convenient for one-touch access to the projector's preset picture and audio modes.
THE LENS
The Hisense PX2-PRO employs a high-quality, multi-component lens system tailored for ultra-short throw projectors. This lens system is designed to project images at steep, extreme angles. Even when positioned mere inches from the screen, the PX2-PRO effectively distributes light evenly, resulting in excellent brightness uniformity across the image and with only minimal softening of focus at the extreme corners.
Like its predecessors in the PX series, the PX2-PRO features Hisense's Digital Lens Focusing (DLF). This feature provides ultra-fine focus adjustments via menu controls, ensuring a razor-sharp image across its 90 to 130-inch size range. DLF is a welcome addition, as it allows virtually any room to be transformed into a home theater. When placed close to the wall, the PX2-PRO can project up to a 130-inch image with outstanding brightness uniformity.
The projector includes a highly innovative Auto Geometric Correction feature with a manual option. The tool uses your mobile phone to assess your image-squaring progress. Simply take a picture and send it to Hisense. They'll use this data to automatically configure your projector's screen geometry for optimal image alignment.
While these auto geometry tools offer convenient and quick setups, they come with a trade-off. They should only be used as a last resort. I strongly recommend manually squaring the projector to the screen because, while convenient, keystone correction (manual or auto) reduces overall image quality.
MENUS
The new Google TV OS on the PX2-PRO provides a first-class streaming experience, with Hisense stepping up on this model and giving users access to Netflix and other premium streaming services like Disney+, Max, Hulu, and many more. Google TV also allows users to see live TV content and the on-demand streaming options available based on the user's subscriptions.
Google TV gives users access to all the streaming, entertainment, and gaming content available on previous Android TV options while adding brand-new control functions, letting users make the projector a control hub for other connected devices in the home. This new Google TV OS allows users to connect to the entire range of Google and Google-compliant smart devices available today. Users can access home security cameras or a smart doorbell and view the feed on their big screen. Users can also connect a webcam to the projector and make video calls via Google Duo, and the new Google Home app controls the projector via an Android phone.
PERFORMANCE
COLOR REPRODUCTION
One of the best things about Hisense TriChroma laser projectors, including the PX2-PRO, is their display of shades. Our technical editor often compares a manufacturer's ability to effectively leverage a projector's color capability to that of a great chef's ability to create a fantastic meal out of common ingredients. This comparison makes Hisense color engineers master chefs, thanks to Hisense's TriChroma laser light source.
The PX2-PRO uses three special lasers: red, green, and blue. This "TriChroma" light source lets the projector show a much wider range of colors than single lasers, lamps, and LED light sources.
But the hardware is only half the story. Hisense understands color science and uses this knowledge to maximize the projector's abilities. Hisense brings years of experience expertise in projectors, and a leader in flat-panel TVs. They've applied that expertise to the PX2-PRO, meaning the projector delivers fantastic colors right out of the box, with no tinkering needed.
Hisense understands that different types of content require different picture settings. That's why the PX2-PRO has a generous selection of preset modes: eight for Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) viewing and seven for High Dynamic Range (HDR) content.
Even in scenes with lots going on, the PX2-PRO kept its color balance. Skin tones look natural, which is key to diving into a film. Examples include everything from high-contrast scenes in Lucy to the range of skin tones in The White Lotus. These details ensure each person on screen seems real, which helps pull viewers into the tale.
One of the nicest things about the PX2-PRO's colors is how true they are from the start. With many preset picture modes, from the punchy feel of HDR VIVID to the softer tones of CINEMA NIGHT, the PX2-PRO does a great job so that users won't need to spend hours trying to get the picture just right.
The PX2-PRO features several preset modes designed for use in spaces with uncontrolled ambient. The VIVID, GAME, and SPORTS modes pack an extra brightness punch. Remember that these modes prioritize visibility over absolute color accuracy and will have a cooler, slightly blue-tinged appearance.
The THEATER DAY and THEATER NIGHT modes shine for a more balanced cinema experience with faithful color reproduction in standard content. These deliver the most accurate colors out-of-the-box, perfectly in line with the ideal 6500K color temperature. Just be aware that these modes slightly dim the projector's overall brightness for image accuracy.
We used Portrait Displays Calman color calibration software to measure the PX2-PRO's color accuracy before and after adjustment.
Since your room and screen material significantly impact the overall picture, we don't recommend using someone else's calibration adjustments. Your settings will differ if your room is brighter or darker or if your walls are a different color. Also, the color characteristics of different individual projectors can vary. Therefore, copying someone else's results can be detrimental to the picture quality rather than improving it. The charts below show my measurements before and after calibration.
Suppose you want to make quick BRIGHTNESS, CONTRAST, and SHARPNESS adjustments to improve the picture quality of your projector in your room. In that case, several free test patterns are available on the Murideo website and their YouTube channel. Murideo also has written instructions in the resource section of its website. Also, check out our YouTube video on utilizing several test patterns called Optimize The Image of a Projector or TV Using Free Murideo Test Patterns.
Pre-Calibration Color Tracking and Grayscale
We measured and adjusted the FILMMAKER Mode since it was the most accurate out of the box. The color reproduction was good in this mode, but it was a little warm, like the two theater modes. Our Grayscale measurements indicated that the image contained an excessive amount of Red, especially at high IREs, resulting in an average color temperature of 6063K, lower than our target of 6500 K.
The Gamma measurement was about 1.9, higher than our target of 2.2. While this is fine for viewing the content in rooms with moderate ambient light, black levels are slightly evaluated in dark spaces. Many tri-laser Laser projectors need help tracking Rec709 colors used in SDR content properly, often resulting in wildly oversaturated colors.
While the color tracking could have been better than other Hisense TriChroma Laser projectors we measured, the Hisense PX2-PRO still did a fairly good job.
Picture Mode: FILMMAKER MODE
Gamma: 1.9
Color Temperature: 6063K
Average Grayscale dE: 4.4
Average Color Tracking dE: 4.13
Post-Calibration Color Tracking and Grayscale
Since the average color temperature was fairly close to my target of 6500K, I left the COLOR TEMP setting at its default of Warm 1. I used the projector's 2pt GRAYSCALE adjustment to achieve better RGB balance by reducing the amount of RED GAIN while increasing the amount of BLUE GAIN in the image. The projector also includes 20pt white balance adjustments, but I did not feel the need to use them.
To achieve my Gamma target 2.2, I just needed to switch the projector’s GAMMA setting from BT1886 to 2.2. The PX2-PRO also includes multi-point Gamma adjustments, which I use to fine-tune the projector's performance further. The black level was still slightly elevated, so I reduced the projector's BRIGHTNESS setting.
The projector's pre-calibration color tracking was good, but I used the COLOR TUNING (CMS) to improve color tracking. While I corrected the tracking of colors displayed at lower IREs, the brightest colors remained oversaturated.
Picture Mode: CINEMA NIGHT
Gamma: 2.18
Color Temperature: 6471K
Average Grayscale dE: 1.6
Average Color Tracking dE: 1.3
Overall, the Hisense PX2-PRO Laser Cinema preset picture modes deliver quality that will satisfy most folks considering it for their homes. The images I captured in the slideshow above are great examples of this projector's color capabilities.
While the preset picture modes have great colors, the PX2-PRO lets users fine-tune the projector's picture settings to make the displayed image look exactly how they like it. Film buffs might want to tweak the settings to make things just how they like them, but for most users, the colors as they are will be high enough quality for most home theater configurations.
BRIGHTNESS
The TriChroma triple-laser light engine faithfully recreates a rated 2,400 ANSI lumens peak brightness, allowing good highlights with deep black levels and shadow details, especially when viewed in a light-controlled space.
To determine the PX2-PRO's brightness capabilities, I set the projector to SDR VIVID mode, the brightest picture mode. Since we are primarily concerned about the customer's out-of-the-box experience, I did not adjust the projector contrast or light level beyond the projector's built-in preset modes. I then took three to four readings about 15-20% out from the center of the lens.
The Hisense PX2-PRO measured 2,588 ANSI lumens, almost 200 ANSI lumens brighter than Hisense's brightness claim. I also measured the brightness of several preset picture modes in the chart below.
Hisense PX2-PRO Preset Mode's Brightness
Picture Modes
Brightness Measured (ANSI Lumens)
VIVID
2588 ANSI Lumens
STANDARD
2050 ANSI Lumens
ENERGY SAVING
1421 ANSI Lumens
GAME
2242 ANSI Lumens
SPORTS
2360 ANSI Lumens
THEATER DAY
1630 ANSI Lumens
THEATER NIGHT
1662 ANSI Lumens
FILMMAKER
1573 ANSI Lumens
BLACK LEVEL AND SHADOW DETAIL
Hisense lists the PX2-PRO's Dynamic contrast as 3,000,000:1, an increase from the previous model, which is quite noticeable. The projector's black level was quite good and a visible improvement from the prior generation Laser Cinema modes, but while better, it is still closer to dark gray than deep black. This improved contrast was obvious when watching darker night clips on my matte white screen. These projectors are typically meant to be flat-panel replacements, used in rooms with higher ambient light or for lights-on viewing, limiting black levels.
The PX2-PRO blacks were better than typical DLP projectors. Some traditional home projectors in this projector's price range can provide better black level and shadow detail, but they are not ultra short throw units.
If you want the deepest blacks possible from the PX2-PRO, consider purchasing an ALR higher-gain screen. This type of screen highlights deep black levels and wider viewing angles over screens that reject maximum ambient light.
Projector calibration is also highly recommended and does wonders for the already well-tuned images the projector produces.
SDR
Most TV shows and live broadcasts will likely continue to be produced in HD for several years, so good 4K upscaling is critical. The PX2-PRO's upscaling is excellent. Whether I watched 720p sports from ESPN or 1080p Blu-ray content, it all looked terrific.
The FILM mode was designed especially for a movie shot 24p, and it eliminates 3:2 pulldown for more cinematic motion. When viewing 30p or 60p material, the PX2-PRO was set to CLEAR mode, and I did not notice too many motion artifacts.
Motion Estimation Motion Compensation (MEMC) technology uses an advanced, algorithmic technique to predict where a frame is in video content and, through the algorithm, insert an additional frame between each originalMEMC is a frame interpolation technology designed to smooth out the blur when watching content that looks better with less judder, like sports and video games.
The PX2-PRO includes six motion compensation presets (CUSTOM, FILM, CLEAR, STANDARD, SMOOTH, and OFF). In CUSTOM mode, you can make manual adjustments.
The PX2-Pro offers impressive color out-of-the-box. The THEATER DAY, THEATER NIGHT, and FILMMAKER picture modes produced the most accurate skin tones out-of-the-box, with colors that look natural and true to life.
Sports and live content, such as talk shows, also looked excellent, as shown in the slideshow above. The projector displayed bright and colorful images that were pleasing to watch.
Animation and other high-contrast content popped without the typical oversaturation of many DLP laser projectors.
HDR
The PX2-PRO supports several High Dynamic Range formats, including HDR10 and HLG. In addition, it supports Dolby Vision, which includes dynamic metadata about the content's color grading and brightness levels on a scene-by-scene basis. The PX2-PRO can use this metadata to adjust its picture settings in real time, optimizing the HDR viewing experience for each scene. Video games, UHD Blu-ray discs, and several popular streaming services, including Netflix, Apple TV, HBOMax, and Disney+, support Dolby Vision.
There are several HDR preset picture models to choose from. I decided to do most of my viewing using the FILMMAKER mode, which is the brightest and most accurate. Regardless of the HDR format, the PX2-PRO produced an excellent HDR picture. The unit delivered accurate colors and good onscreen brightness while maintaining bright highlight detail.
HDR Pre and Post-Calibration Measurements
Hisense rates the PX2-PRO to display 107% of the BT.2020 color space, a key tool used in high-dynamic-range (HDR) content. In short, this means colors on the screen truly "pop" but don't look fake or too strong.
Beyond this, the TriChroma's wider range of colors gives HDR content even more depth, as shown in the slide above from Blue Planet II. The PX2-PRO can accurately reproduce the sea blues, making the coral's bright flashes even more noticeable. Animation like Spider-Man Across the Spiderverse bursts with a wider range of colors, and even when watching this content from an SDR source, the scenes are incredibly nice.
The picture quality of static HDR content was good, but Dolby Vision was better. The PX2-PRO displayed highlight details excellently while maintaining good full-screen brightness.
Like SDR, the most accurate HDR picture modes were still warm overall. The HDR picture modes include their dedicated 2pt WHITE BALANCE adjustment. Once, I chose the FILMMAKER mode to reduce the RED GAIN and increase the BLUE GAIN to achieve a better RGB balance.
Due to its RGB Laser Light source, the PX2-PRO can reproduce over 100% of the BT2020 color space, which we confirmed during our measurements. The PX2-PRO also tracked the DCI-P3 color space well, often used when mastering HDR content. You can use the CMS to fine-tune it further.
Due to its Tri-laser light source, the PX2-PRO can deliver a massive range of colors without a color filter, which would have sacrificed some light output. Maximizing light output is important when displaying HDR content because it reduces the need for tone mapping.
Seeing the difference between HDR and SDR has often been challenging. Projectors need help reproducing the brightness range found in HDR content. Even with this projector's dynamic tone mapping, HDR's full benefits are impossible. Even so, the HDR performance on this projector is very good.
The PX2-PRO produced bright highlight detail well, as shown in the screenshots from Mad Max Fury Road and Aquaman. This high level of performance can be directly attributed to Hisense's years of producing 4K HDR flat panels and Laser Cinemas.
While most Blu-ray UHD content is available in HDR and more and more streaming content supports dynamic HDR formats like Dolby Vision, much streaming material is still only available in HD. The PX2-PRO had no problem upscaling this content to display it in sharp, detailed 4K.
SOUND QUALITY
The sound tuning on the PX2-PRO differs from the previous model, in some cases for the better and others for the worse. Let's start with what's improved. The projector's onboard sound is incredibly bright, with improved emphasis on the mids and highs, which is a noticeable difference from the PX1-PRO.
Regarding low-frequency performance, I remember being very impressed with the PX1-PRO mid-bass performance, one of the best I had heard in a UST up to that point. Unfortunately, at higher volumes, the projector's speakers began to clip.
Hisense solved the clipping by shifting the projector's default sound tuning up, reducing the projector's bass performance. Reducing the bass is a great solution only if you listen to the projector at 75% or higher volume settings, which most of us don't. The unfortunate result is that at normal volume levels of 10 to 50%, the PX2-PRO low end is noticeably lacking even the limited mid-bass frequencies found in many modern UST projectors of its class. I think Hisense could have done better.
The Hisense PX2-PRO does carry over premium audio features like eARC for lossless audio. Dolby Atmos Sound provides a listening experience beyond the built-in sound, allowing you to pass through uncompressed audio to a higher-quality multi-channel surround sound system. Hisense also provides an optical audio output and a 3.5-inch analog audio output. Remember, the optical output cannot pass the latest immersive surround formats to an external sound system. Apps like Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime contain multi-channel content that requires eARC to take full advantage of the high-quality surround tracks available on modern movies and TV shows.
The Hisense PX2-PRO is WiSA-ready to transmit high-resolution audio to WiSA-certified speakers when an optional third-party WiSA transmitter is plugged into any PX2's USB ports. All WiSA-certified devices are designed to work seamlessly with each other. WISA-ready devices offer an incredibly easy setup: All you need to do is plug in the AC and enjoy—no speaker wires or complicated setup.
The PX2-PRO supports various audio formats, including stereo, Dolby 5.1, and 7.1 surround. WISA also supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X systems.
The Hisense PX2-PRO has several preset audio modes, such as MUSIC, MOVIE, NEWS, SPORTS, and NIGHT sound modes, ensuring a decent onboard audio experience to match all kinds of content you view.
Even when set to its highest brightness, the PX2-PRO is a quiet projector. I could barely hear the unit's fan from my sitting position during quiet scenes. This low noise from the projector's cooling system is a testament to Hisense's design and heat management skills.
While the overall sound quality of the PX2-PRO's onboard sound system is very good, it could be better this year in this projector's price range and category.
SUMMARY
The PX2-PRO offers a brighter image than the PX1-PRO, with 2,400 lumens of manufacturer-rated brightness. While a 200 ANSI lumen increase might seem like a modest change, depending on the environment, it can significantly impact the visual experience. For example, in rooms with windows or other light sources, a brighter projector can better cut through the ambient light, keeping images vivid and clear instead of washing them out. Also, a brighter lumen capability allows the PX2-PRO to improve the projector's look even at its largest estimated screen size of 130 inches without sacrificing the picture.
High-dynamic-range (HDR) content also greatly benefits from higher brightness since HDR relies on reproducing the brightest whites and darkest blacks as accurately as possible. Those brighter highlights are more impactful with a brighter projector, creating a more dynamic and immersive picture.
Finally, it's important to remember that human perception of brightness isn't linear, so a small increase in lumens can lead to a more noticeable improvement in perceived brightness than expected.
The PX2-PRO also boasts a dynamic contrast ratio, reaching 3,000,000:1. This increase in the PX2-PRO's contrast ratio, even while keeping the projector's other specs similar to the PX1-PRO, offers significant benefits. The biggest advantage I could see was the improvement of the PX2-PRO's black levels, which translated to movies and games displaying more visible detail. This improvement makes shadows appear more realistic and allows you to distinguish objects and textures in low-light scenes that would otherwise be lost in darkness. Hisense doubling the projector's contrast visibly improved color reproduction and vibrancy, leading to more accurate and lifelike colors, making most of the content I watched more engaging. Lastly, the PX2-PRO's improved contrast meant that HDR (High Dynamic Range) content received a modest but visible boost.
Beyond visuals, the PX2-PRO smartly leaps to Google TV OS, replacing Android TV. Google TV provides users a smoother, more intuitive interface, better ways to find what they want to watch, and access to a wider array of compatible apps.
Each upgrade in the PX2-PRO (brightness, contrast, OS) works together to create an excellent entertainment experience. The brighter image plus deeper blacks lead to a more cinematic, HDR-worthy picture, and the Google TV OS streamlines how you find and enjoy that content.
The Hisense PX2-PRO ultra short throw projector may appear a modest update to its predecessor, but it packs some crucial improvements that noticeably enhance your viewing experience. These seemingly incremental upgrades affect this projector's overall performance.
COMPETITION
AWOL VISION LTV-2500 $2,999 MSRP
The AWOL Vision LTV-2500 sells for a $2,999 MSRP for the projector only. The brightness between these two projectors is close, within 200 ANSI lumens. The AWOL Vision rated at 2600 ANSI lumens compared to the PX2-PRO's 2400 ANSI lumens rating.
The LTV-2500 supports HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG, whereas the Hisense does not, which limits the PX2-PRO's ability to display HDR10+ content with the benefit of dynamic metadata. AWOL Vision lists the projector's contrast as 2,500:1 when using the company's Enhanced Adaptive Black Level setting. Both the LTV-2500 and the PX2-PRO offer excellent black-level performance.
The LTV-2500 Pro features a big-sounding 36-watt sound system capable of very dynamic sound with better mid-bass than the PX2-PRO.
AWOL Vision uses Amazon Fire TV OS as its streaming and application solution. The included Firestick 4K Max is an excellent performer, comparable to the Android TV operating system. However, the Hisense PX2-PRO's Google TV OS provides next-generation performance with exceptional control integration and a more curated search and content recommendation experience across all the major streaming applications.
The AWOL Vision LTV-2500 Pro is now seamlessly integrated with Control4 and other projector control and management solutions, enabling features like power, volume, HDMI source switching, and more to be managed through platforms such as PJLink, Control 4, SAVANT, and Crestron.
The Hisense PX2-PRO is an overall smaller projector than the AWOL Vision, just about three inches less wide and about an inch less deep. However, AWOL Vision supports 3D video formats, while Hisense does not.
Lastly, both projectors are sold without screens, but AWOL Vision regularly offers a free matte white screen between 100 and 150 inches as a special.
PROS
The build quality of the PX2-PRO carries the same design language as its predecessor, the PX1-PRO.
The Trichroma RGB Laser light source produces excellent out-of-the-box color, reproducing 107% of Rec. 2020 space.
The projector's support for HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision encoding provides improved dark and highlight area details.
The new Google TV OS provides users with a much-improved curated search experience across all the streaming applications on the projector.
Hisense continues to provide users with a robust CMS (Color Management System) that allows incredibly detailed fine-tuning of the projected image.
With normal operation, the projector's light source is rated to last more than 20,000 hours when run in NORMAL energy mode.
The Google TV OS supports both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
The USB 3.0 Type-A input and built-in media player allow users to play content from compatible external media sources, such as USB sticks and hard drives.
A 2-year limited manufacturer warranty should provide consumers confidence in the reliability of the projector.
CONS
Hisense has improved the mid and high-range performance of the 30-watt Dolby Atmos sound system and reduced low-frequency clipping, resulting in a noticeable reduction in bass frequencies.
The remote backlight is dim and shuts off too quickly.
