ACF LENS

In 2022, Sony introduced the smaller 0.61-inch SXRD imager along with a premium ACF (Advanced Crisp-Focused) lens assembly. Since the imager is smaller, Sony is able to deliver the same quality optics from a smaller lens assembly. For example, video camera images are available in multiple sizes, like full-frame, APC, and micro 4/3^rd. A bigger imager requires bigger lens assembly and longer flange distances.

The ARC-F (All Range Crisp Focus) lens is Sony’s premium projector lens and it is utilized on Sony’s higher-end 0.74-inch equipped SXRD models. This ARC-F lens assembly commands a high premium, for example adding it literally doubled the price of the VW1025ES ($40,000 SRP) compared to the VW915ES ($20,000 SRP). However, the difference in sharpness was dramatic. It is like looking through an open window.  When viewed through the unit’s ARC-F lens, things just seem clearer – richer, more real.

Reducing the size of the SXRD panels reduces the size of the optical block and lens. The smaller 0.61-inch SXRD imager and smaller lens assembly are the reasons why the chassis of the new XW-Series are more compact than the 0.74-inch SXRD models they are replacing.

Sony claims that the new ACF lens available in some XW-Series projectors offers the same optical quality as the larger ARC-F lens found in the previous VW1025ES ($39,999 SRP). However, the new ACF-equipped projectors are brighter, more compact, and significantly less expensive. For example, you can get the same quality optics in the XW Series projectors starting with the XW6000ES which retails for just $12,000. 

The ACF is an 18-element all-glass large-aperture lens assembly that includes six Extra Low-Dispersion (ELD) elements) that ensures outstanding focus across the entire screen and significantly reduces chromatic aberration (color fringing). While the standard lens is impressive, especially when compared to the optics found on many lower-cost 4K DLP projectors. If you are projecting onto a massive screen, the ARC-F and ACF lenses are worth the premium if you want to extract every ounce of detail from the projector’s 4K SXRD panels.

The new motorized ACF lens has a 2.14x zoom range while the standard manual lens offered on 0.61-inch SXRD projectors has a zoom range of 1.6:1. All Sony SXRD projectors offer a large amount of horizontal and vertical lens shift which really simplifies installation especially when you are trying to replace an older unit that was previously fixed mounted.