In the middle of CES 2009, it’s hard to miss a beast like SIM2’s HT5000E. Not just because it’s cranking out super-cool 1080p images for all to enjoy. It’s more likely that people want to ogle the unit because of its $57,995 price tag.

SIM2 does produce some nice equipment, but wow wee. What do you get for that kind of cost?

First of all, the DLP unit uses three 0.95-inch DarkChip4 DMDs (Digital Micro-mirror Device) to deliver a 1920 x 1080 resolution. Also, as an added bonus, you get VIP “white glove” service, which means a SIM2 technician will come out to your house two weeks after installation to certify everything and make any final tweaks to set you up right.

An optional lens drive for another $7,995 will cover almost any throw distance, ranging from a short-throw wide-angle (0.67:1) through to long-throw (4.16-6.96:1).

It’s got to be nice and all (right?), but for $58K, we could probably get a small acting troupe to come in and perform our favorite movies and/or sporting events.

Still, if you’ve got the cash, the HT5000E will be available this month.

Rachel Cericola - Contributing Writer

Over the past 15 years, Rachel Cericola has covered entertainment, web and technology trends. Check her out at www.rachelcericola.com.