AWOL Vision Aetherion Max & Pro: 4K Ultra Short Throw Projectors Launching on Kickstarter

As televisions continue to grow in size, projector manufacturers are focusing on delivering a premium experience with exceptional image quality and ease of use. Awol Vision is aiming to do just that with its new Aetherion Max and Aetherion Pro projectors, promising a “pixel-perfect” viewing experience on impressively large screens.

The company unveiled the Aetherion Max and Pro at CES 2026, positioning them as ultra short throw (UST) projectors capable of producing a 200-inch (5-meter) diagonal image. UST projectors are designed to be placed close to the projection surface, simplifying setup compared to traditional projectors that require significant throw distance. However, achieving a clear image with a steep projection angle presents significant technical challenges.

AWOL Vision Aetherion Max and Aetherion Pro: Precision Projection

Awol Vision addresses these challenges with a technology they’ve dubbed PixelLock. The company claims this system delivers pixel-accurate 4K projection, mitigating issues common with UST projectors like pixel shifting and subpixel misalignment. PixelLock combines both hardware and software techniques to ensure optimal image clarity.

The core of PixelLock is an alignment system integrating optical, mechanical, and digital components. This system accounts for lens tolerances, material deformation caused by temperature fluctuations, and micro-distortions inherent in the UST projection angle. A sapphire glass lens with a specialized mineral coating is also employed to minimize chromatic aberration while maximizing light transmission and color accuracy. A motorized lens cover further protects against dust and maintains consistent performance.

Both the Aetherion Max and Pro boast a native contrast ratio of 6000:1, which can be boosted to 60,000:1 using the Enhanced Black Level technology – previously featured in the company’s Valerion Max projector. Brightness levels reach 3300 ISO lumens for the Aetherion Max and 2600 ISO lumens for the Aetherion Pro. Both models also incorporate technology to reduce the “rainbow effect,” a visual artifact sometimes seen with certain projection technologies.

For high dynamic range (HDR) content, the Aetherion projectors support Dolby Vision, IMAX Enhanced, HDR10+, and Filmmaker Mode, with dynamic tone mapping for real-time optimization of standard HDR material.

Gamers will benefit from high refresh rates up to 240 frames per second, variable refresh rate (VRR), auto low latency mode (ALLM), and Dolby Vision Gaming – a first for a projector, according to the manufacturer. Connectivity includes both wired gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi 7. The projectors are powered by a Mediatek MT9655 processor and run Google Android TV 14.

Pricing and Availability

Awol Vision is showcasing the Aetherion Max and Pro at CES 2026 in Las Vegas. The Aetherion Max is priced at $4499, while the Aetherion Pro will retail for $3499. The company indicates there are differences between the two models beyond brightness, though specific details have not yet been released. Initial sales will be conducted through Kickstarter, starting in February 2026, with special early-bird pricing and bundle options available. More information can be found on the Awol Vision website.