In a significant move for the professional AV market, Sharp NEC Display Solutions has just pulled back the curtain on two powerful new additions to its lineup: the XP-V731U and XP-V801U laser projectors. Part of the new "V Series," these models are poised to become a go-to solution for businesses, educators, and venue managers seeking brilliant image quality without a staggering price tag.
Launched alongside four new A-Series models, the V-Series is being marketed on a compelling premise: a "cost-efficient design" that doesn't force users to compromise on the core features they need for dynamic presentations, engaging lessons, and immersive digital signage.
Clarity Meets Versatility: Core Specifications Unveiled
At the heart of both the XP-V731U and XP-V801U is a robust feature set designed for professional environments. Both are WUXGA (1,920 x 1,200 pixels) projectors, leveraging reliable 3LCD technology to deliver vibrant, colour-accurate images. This high native resolution ensures that fine details in spreadsheets, complex diagrams, and high-definition video are rendered with pin-sharp clarity.
While they are native 16:10 projectors, they fully support a 4K input signal, making them future-proof for higher-resolution content sources. With a staggering 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio, these projectors produce deep blacks and bright whites, ensuring content pops even in rooms with some ambient light. Flexibility is a key strength, with a projection distance range from a remarkably short 0.7 metres up to 50.9 metres, accommodating everything from small huddle rooms to large lecture halls. The maximum recommended screen size is an impressive 500 inches.
Users can choose between motorized or manual zoom and focus lenses depending on their installation needs, and manual horizontal and vertical keystone correction helps quickly achieve a perfectly squared image, even if the projector isn't perfectly aligned.
For those looking to dive into the complete technical details, the official product page for the Sharp XP-V731U offers comprehensive specifications and support information.
The Laser Advantage: Longevity, Brightness, and Quiet Operation
Moving beyond traditional lamps, both V-Series projectors utilize a laser light source, a decision that brings multiple tangible benefits. The most significant is a dramatically extended lifespan of up to 20,000 hours. This translates to years of maintenance-free operation, eliminating the cost and hassle of frequent lamp replacements and significantly reducing the total cost of ownership.
Where the two models differ is in their raw brightness output. The XP-V731U delivers a substantial 7,300 ISO lumens, while the step-up XP-V801U pushes further to a dazzling 8,000 ISO lumens. This makes them ideal for brightly lit classrooms, corporate boardrooms, or large public venues where ambient light cannot be fully controlled.
Despite this powerful performance, Sharp has engineered these projectors to run remarkably quietly. With operating noise as low as 31 dB—quieter than a quiet library—they ensure that the technology stays in the background, allowing the content to take centre stage without any distracting hum.
Seamless Integration and Availability
Understanding the needs of professional integrators, Sharp has ensured the new V-Series is compatible with the brand's existing range of mounts and lenses, simplifying upgrades and new installations. Furthermore, they can be remotely set up, monitored, and managed using Sharp's ProAssist software, a boon for IT managers overseeing multiple devices across different locations.
The broader industry launch, covered in detail by TechPowerUp, highlights how these new V and A Series models represent a significant refresh of Sharp's professional projector portfolio.
Pricing for the Sharp V Series has been confirmed for the European market. The XP-V731U is expected to retail for around £3,545.99 (€4,326), with the brighter XP-V801U coming in at approximately £4,100.99. They will be available through authorised retailers such as Back To the Office in the UK and Bechtle in Germany. Details on US pricing and availability are expected to be announced at a later date.
With their compelling blend of high brightness, long-lasting laser technology, and sharp WUXGA resolution, the new Sharp V-Series projectors are set to offer exceptional value, proving that professional-grade visual performance is now more accessible than ever.
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