Real-World Observation and Evaluation
We all know that hard factual numbers allow us to build a foundation from which we can develop an opinion on how a piece of equipment performs. I would like to take some time to express my personal visual experience with each screen.
Obviously, upon viewing these screens I formed an initial opinion; however I felt that using each of these screens for a lengthy period of time would allow me to "acclimate" to their strengths and weaknesses. Each screen was used for both DVD and high definition television playback during a period of 3 weeks. Since I do not have direct control over ambient lighting, the only time that I could view these screens was during the evening hours.
Using the Sencore VP400 VideoPro to generate our calibration images, and our Milori ColorFacts Software and Sensor for our measurements (See our Calibration Equipment Page for Details), the projector was calibrated each time so that the brightness, contrast, sharpness, tint and color were all equal from screen to screen. All measurement values in graphic form were documented to provide easy recall when switching from one screen to another. Understand that even though the projector was calibrated to each screen there are many variables that are not addressed here due to the nature of this review and limitations of the projector. The camera used for the captures was a Nikon 5400. You may also want to take into consideration that every computer monitor reproduces color differently. Unless you are using a properly calibrated monitor, we recommend you use the photos for comparison only and pay closer attention to our analysis and measurements.
Carada High Contrast Gray Projector Screen
The first screen that was chosen was the gray high-contrast model which came from Carada. Until this point I had been using a matte white wall. The chosen title was "The Fifth Element" (Superbit) DVD. I immediately noticed deeper and richer blacks - a fairly dramatic, though expected, change from the matte white wall.
While I felt that the color representation was adequate my overall impression was that the colors looked a bit "dull" the blue skies appeared a little grey rather than blue. I had no problem adjusting the projector to minimize the over scan artifacts even though the screens frame is significantly narrower than the others. I should note that the frame is wrapped in a black velvet material. This is included in all of Carada's screens at no additional cost.
During the three week period I can honestly say that the screen did "grow" on me. The source used during this period of time was 1080i high definition via DirecTV. I began to appreciate the sleek thin appearance of the frame. The color representation while adequate did not jump out at me as I have seen on some matte white screens. The rich, vibrant color that some may be used to when viewing images on a white screen simply cannot be achieved with this screen and projector.
The Carada screen is noticeably darker, while increased black levels are desirable with low contrast projectors
Da-Lite Cinema Vision Projector Screen
The second screen that went up for observation was the Da-Lite Cinema Vision. I was excited to see how this screen would perform with the D-ILA projector. As with the Carada screen, the projector was calibrated to this screen for equal performance using the Sencore Video Generator and Milori Sensor and Software. This screen is Da-Lite's "Cinema Vision" model, not to be confused with their "High Contrast Cinema Vision."
The same source was used when viewing this screen for the first time. The screen material is not grey in color as with the Stewart and Carada models, but closer to white. This was quite obvious as the colors were much more vibrant and reflective. The downside with this screen was the presence of hot spots on the areas attempting to produce bright whites. The reduced contrast ratio on the projector combined with this type of screen material also caused the blacks to appear much more gray in color. I personally was not pleased with the results of this screen.
After the three week evaluation period I realized that the performance of this screen had more to do with a mismatch between the D-ILA projector and this type of screen material than the actual quality of the Da-Lite product. The brightness of this screen was just too high, resulting in both inadequate black levels and overbearing whites.
While the Cinema Vision does have the ability to produce vibrant colors the elevated white levels cause the blacks to appear more gray in color.
Stewart Firehawk High Contrast Projection Screen
The final screen evaluation was performed with Stewart's Firehawk model. This screen somewhat dwarfed the other two models. The color of the screen material was very similar to the material used on the Carada, a medium gray for better black reproduction. Following the same standard as the previous two screens, the projector was fully calibrated to the screen as discussed previously. The Firehawk is one of the more well-known screens in the Home Theater community judging by its abundant presence at CES, including the Faroudja booth. I was anxious to see what all of the hype was about.
The Fifth Element was loaded into the DVD player and the result was very similar to the Carada screen: pleasing color reproduction and excellent black levels. Just as with the Carada, the blacks were much deeper and more accurate. There was a feeling of the overall brightness being reduced a little. This observation seemed a bit odd to me, as the Firehawk claims a gain of 1.3. I did notice some "sparkle" effect when viewing the screen at various angles. Overall, I must say that I could see very little difference between the Carada and Stewart brand screens, a tremendous tip of the hat to Carada, which costs quite a bit less for similar performance.
During the 3 week period the Stewart screen was exhibited excellent saturation of and the entire spectrum of even digital animation films like Finding Nemo seemed well represented. I had already become comfortable with the gray screen after having spent time with the Carada, so the decreased white levels didn't bother me at all and were preferable to hot spots or losing blacks. I could not perceive any increase in gain as the published numbers suggest. As a matter of fact, out of the two screens my eyes suggested that the Carada was perhaps a little brighter.
Out of the three screens the Stewart appeared to be the best match with the JVC projector. The blacks have more detail while not being washed out as with the Da-Lite.
