JVC today announced a new flagship for its home video projector family. The new DLA-RS1 model provides 1080p resolution (1920x1080 progressive) and, according to the manufacturer, provides a contrast ratio of 15,000:1.

To our knowledge, it is the first home projector that provides such a contrast ratio. But then, the RS1 isn't cheap at a suggested retail price of $6300. In exchange you are getting a device that can project videos on screens ranging from 60" to 200" in size and a lens that can be shifted 80% vertically and 34% horizontally. Standard features include dual HDMI inputs, component, composite and S-video interfaces. JVC said that it will be shipping the RS1 in Q1 of 2007.

If you are hesitating to spend $6300 on a projector, there is a slightly cheaper option in the 1080p segment. Epson recently the PowerLite Pro Cinema 1080 projector with a contrast ratio of 12,000:1 and a price tag of about $5000. JVC will also offer a 10,000:1 model early next year.