The subject of our test today is the Aetherion Max ultra short throw projector by Awol Vision.
High-end model, 4K Hdr, ultra short throw: technology that allows you to position the projector at a very short distance from the wall, generating an image of up to 200 inches. A model with an original design, which boasts advanced technical features such as the high-brightness triple laser lighting source, compatibility with Dolby Vision and the complete Google TV platform. Easy to install projector, which also integrates a soundbar with Dolby Atmos.
Let us therefore analyze in detail all the features of the Awol Aetherion Max projector.
Design, connections and packaging
The Aetherion Max features a decidedly modern and original design reminiscent of stealth aircraft. Projector with metal and plastic body, with excellent construction quality, characterized by taut lines, inclined panels and sharp corners capable of creating a futuristic effect that strikes at first glance. The design of the side ventilation grilles and the front one which houses the speakers and a flashy RGB LED, customizable by the user, with multicolored lighting effects that vary based on the audio reproduced by the projector, is also decidedly original.
We continue with the upper side where the laser projection system inserted inside a large recess stands out. Here we also find infrared sensors capable of reducing the brightness of the lasers if you get too close to the projector; the high brightness of the projector could in fact cause damage to your eyesight. Upper side which also houses the motorized lens cover for protection from shocks and dust. The backlit power button is present on the right side; we also find 4 adjustable feet for perfect alignment of the image with the screen.
Complete connections available starting from the side ones: a USB-A 3.0 port on the right and an audio output for 3.5 mm jack on the left. We continue with the back where we find 3 HDMI 2.1 (one with eArc), a DP, an RS232, an AV analogue input, a USB-A 2.0, a Micro USB, an RJ-45 Ethernet port and a Spdif optical digital audio output. Finally, let us remember the wireless connectivity with Bluetooth 5.4 and WiFi 7 and the integrated power supply.
The packaging is also excellent and includes an elegant cover for the top and side of the projector, in plastic and imitation leather, useful for protecting the Aetherion Max from bumps, scratches and dust. We also find a microfibre cloth, a manual also in Italian, an analog AV cable, and two USB cables.
We continue with the good remote control, made of plastic and metal, partially backlit and with commands for quick access to YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+. There is also a button dedicated to the integrated microphone for accessing Google TV services which we will analyze later.
Finally, the generous dimensions of the projector equal to 562 x 323 x 139 mm, with a weight of 8.75 kg.
Video features
Let’s now analyze the video characteristics of the Aetherion Max. On board we find a new 0.47-inch 1080p DMD chip from Texas Instrument, with XPR pixel shifting which allows for 4K resolution. Let’s not forget the new DLPC8445 display controller from Texas Instruments, useful for controlling the DMD chip, 4K display and other functions.
DLP projector with lighting source based on 3 RGB lasers, without color wheel, with a life of up to 25,000 hours and a brightness of 3,300 Iso lumens.
We continue with the contrast ratio of 6,000:1 and 110% coverage of the Rec.2020 color space. Aetherion Max also boasts compatibility with Dolby Vision, Imax Enhanced, 3D video, at 24 fps and 48 fps, Dynamic Tone Mapping and there is no lack of support for the HDR, HDR 10+ and HLG standards. Also excellent projector for video games with 1 ms latency, Allm, Vrr, AMD FreeSync and Dolby Vision Gaming.
Let’s not forget the projection ratio of 0.21:1, with recommended screen sizes of 80 to 200 inches. Going into detail, the Awol Aetherion Max is capable of projecting, for example, a 100-inch image with a distance of just under 16cm between the back of the device and the wall / screen; 80 inches less than 7 cm, while to reach 200 inches approximately 57 cm is needed.
The special feature of the Aetherion Max lies not only in the high brightness of the laser, but also in the optical system. On board we find, in fact, a 7-level Iris lens system: an advanced mechanical diaphragm, integrated into the optics, which adjusts the light aperture with millimetric precision to optimize contrast and black levels. This system, together with PixelLock technology, also allows you to obtain high sharpness across the entire image area, not only in the center, but also at the edges.
Furthermore, the Aetherion Max’s optical system features sapphire glass elements for greater clarity, coated with a rare earth material that improves light transmission, contrast and color fidelity. We continue with the titanium thermal shirt positioned between the reflective elements and designed to act as a heat shield. Its purpose is to maintain temperature stability inside the optical drive and prevent focusing problems.
We also remember the advanced NoirScene II – EBL algorithm for improving the black level and contrast and the Anti-rainbow effect technology: a common visual problem in DLP projectors, perceived differently from viewer to viewer.
We conclude with the MT9655 processor, supported by 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage for the Google TV apps which we will analyze later.
Audio features
Once the analysis of the video characteristics is complete, let’s move on to the audio. Aetherion Max houses a soundbar that integrates 4 speakers (2 full range 25 W and 2 tweeters 20 W), compatible with Dolby Atmos and Dts/X.
Google TV platform and settings
Aetherion Max uses the complete Google TV operating system. It is an excellent platform based on Android, with an easy-to-use interface, which allows access to more than 10,000 apps of various kinds, starting from the most famous video streaming platforms such as Netflix, Dazn, YouTube, Prime Video, Now and Disney+.
On Google TV you can also use well-known applications such as Kodi and Vlc which allow the playback of audio and video files present on NAS and external memories connected via USB. Thanks to Android, it is also possible to install video games on the projector that can be controlled via remote control or Bluetooth joypad (to be purchased separately).
On board we also find the Gemini AI, with the dedicated button and microphone on the remote control, and Google Home for managing the devices in our smart home.
We also mention compatibility with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Airplay 2, Chromecast and Miracast and the ability to view multiple sources simultaneously.
Let’s now analyze the settings starting from the motorized focusing system that can be controlled from the remote control. We also remember the manual correction of the 8-point keystone, with the possibility of automatic adjustment through a complex and ineffective procedure that requires the use of the smartphone.
Let’s move on to the preset video modes: cinema, film maker (to show films exactly as the directors intended them), dynamic, standard, AI sports, energy saving.
We continue with artificial intelligence which allows you to automatically manage video settings, improve the resolution and detail of the image. AI accessible via the dedicated button on the remote control.
Obviously, there is no shortage of very complete manual settings divided into various sections: laser, color and sharpness management, white balance and more.
The audio settings are also complete with various preset modes: game, night, dialogue, music, sports, theater and standard. There is no shortage of virtual surround, also compatible with Dolby Atmos and Dts Virtual X, and the equalizer.
3D glasses
Awol also provided us with a pair of 3D glasses with active shutter for testing. Accessories with a modern design, well built and with integrated battery that allows up to 50 hours of battery life. Good ergonomics, with a weight of only 28 grams. We also remember the response of less than 1.5 ms, the viewing angle of 178° and the high transmittance of 38%. In general, the evaluation of 3D videos was positive, even if they are now not widespread. In fact, these glasses guarantee a good three-dimensional effect, with a fairly bright, stable image, without annoying ghosting effects or obvious artefacts.
Video and audio performance
We conclude the review of the Aetherion Max with the analysis of its performance. Our overall opinion on this projector is very positive. From Awol comes one of the best ultra short throw projectors currently on the market. Aetherion Max brings the whole cinema experience to your home, with simple installation and very complete and advanced technical features.
Let’s start with excellent video performance with very large images, high detail and natural colors, rich in nuances. High-impact video, with excellent contrast. Positive evaluation also on dark, well-detailed scenes and, in general, on the black level. High brightness, with the possibility of using the projector even in a partially lit environment. Very positive evaluation also on the uniformity of the images, with precise focus. Definitely positive opinion not only for videos in 4K and Hdr/Dolby Vision, but also for those in Full HD and with video games.
Similar evaluation for the interface based on Google TV: complete, fast and full of apps. Too bad for some small translation errors in the menus dedicated to the numerous settings available. The factory setup is discreet. Automatic keystone correction can be improved.
Let’s now deal with integrated speakers with good performance and a broad soundstage. Fairly powerful audio, with natural voices, well-defined highs, soft mids and discreet bass.
We also remember the cooling fan with very low noise (30dB).
Finally, the price ofAwol Aetherion Maxcurrently available on promotion for 3,699 euros (list price of 3,999 euros). Finally, we remember the Pro variant with a brightness of 2,600 Lumens on offer at 2,379 euros. The 3D glasses can be purchased for 59 euros (2 pairs).
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