Premium home theater projectors often cost over $10,000, but the Xgimi Titan Noir Max aims to change that. Priced at $5,999, it delivers IMAX Enhanced support, a 10,000:1 native contrast ratio, 7,000 lumens brightness, and a unique dual intelligent iris system that adjusts in real time. According to WIRED, it raised $19 million on Kickstarter, showing strong consumer demand.
Pricing and Availability
The Titan Noir Max is priced at $5,999, significantly undercutting many high-end rivals. However, as WIRED notes, it is currently only available through a Kickstarter campaign and is officially unreleased. The final product is subject to change, and backers may receive a significantly different unit or nothing at all.
Picture Quality and Key Features
In testing, the projector impressed with its inky blacks and true home theater look. It features a 10,000:1 native contrast ratio, 7,000 lumens brightness, and a dual intelligent iris system. WIRED reports that the Titan Noir Max edged out top models like the Epson Pro Cinema LS9000 and the Leica Cine Play 1 in benchmarks. It also includes a Dynamic Black Level Enhancement (DBLE) setting that reduces brightness to enhance black richness, plus automatic iris control that adjusts colors and contrast scene by scene.
Setup and Usability
The projector features four adjustable legs, allowing users to tilt the image up, down, or at an angle—a design WIRED calls unique. It comes in a hard-shell carrying case with black and silver accents. A stand is available for $399, but the reviewer used a small table. The Titan Noir Max runs on a basic version of Google Android but does not include a streaming OS; it assumes users will connect their own AV receiver, streaming devices, or a 4K Blu-ray player. This eliminates OS lag and makes it suitable for gaming. The reviewer connected a Google TV streamer, Xbox Series X, and an Onkyo TX-RZ50 for DTS:X surround sound, though Dolby Atmos passthrough did not work with that receiver.
Configuration took less than five minutes, with simple keystoning and focus options. WIRED found it much easier than the fussier Epson LifeStudio Grand Plus.
Comparison with Competitors
| Feature | Xgimi Titan Noir Max | Epson Pro Cinema LS9000 | Leica Cine Play 1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $5,999 | North of $10,000 | Similar price range |
| Native contrast | 10,000:1 | Not specified | Not specified |
| Brightness | 7,000 lumens | Not specified | Not specified |
| Iris system | Dual intelligent | Not specified | Not specified |
| IMAX Enhanced | Yes | No | No |
Limitations
The projector struggled during evening scenes from movies like Awake and Tron: Ares in a bright, sunny room. Dolby Atmos passthrough failed with the Onkyo TX-RZ50. Additionally, since it is only available via Kickstarter, backers face typical crowdfunding risks.
Despite these drawbacks, the Titan Noir Max offers a compelling blend of performance and ease of use. For those seeking a high-end home cinema experience without the professional install, it provides a consumer-friendly yet configurable option.
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