Audioholics Reviews and News from Audioholics

Acer H6500 DLP Projector Video Review

Wed, 23 May 2012 12:30:00 -0000

Now before you start to think about all the reasons why a front projector may not be the best solution for you, let's take a look at this model, the Acer H6500. It's a 1080p DLP projector with 2100 lumens and it only costs $899. Given that you can pick up a starter screen for around $300, or even roll your own, that's a bright 100" display for $1000 or so. Where are you gonna find that kind of value in a flat panel TV? The H6500 lacks some home theater functions that might be important to you, like advanced video processing and auto-iris. At the same time it's ultra-portable, super-bright, and puts out a beautiful picture. It doesn't have lens shift or much zoom on the lens, so you're looking at a tabletop or ceiling mount installation. A rear shelf probably won't work. We think the H6500 is a great solution for those looking for a living room system - an inexpensive TV killer. If you want only the best, then keep shopping, but expect to pay a lot more as well.

Acer H9500BD 3D Projector Video Review

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:10:00 -0000

Audioholics has reviewed 3D projectors in the past, but this one is from Acer, a company well-known for their notebooks, netbooks and PCs... but they also have a line of excellent projectors. Well, excellent if you're really into black levels and have a budget of around $1500. But let's back up. We took on this review because Acer is a company we've had a lot of contact with in the past. Let's face it, they make some really excellent products in the PC world and they have a reputation for value. What we didn't know was how well the H9500BD would hold up to the rather wide playing field of competitive products - I mean, there are a lot of projectors in that price range.

Elite Screens CineTension2 106" Electric Projector Screen Review

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:30:00 -0000

Elite Screens has produced an almost innumerable variety of screens. In that way they have something for nearly any application you can imagine. But what's really amazing is that they typically price their products at a considerably higher value than some of the other major custom-installer-centric manufacturers. The CineTension2 Series is one of their more user-friendly models, appealing to both the professional user and the enthusiast. It's, as the name implies, a tab tensioned screen. That is to say that it has a tensioning system that pulls rigidly along the loops that come out from the sides of the 2" black surround material of the screen. This keeps the screen from curling up along the edges as well as from waving in the middle and makes for an extremely flat (and thus more enjoyable) viewing experience. When you're wanting to lose yourself in the movie experience, and a motorized solution is required, tab-tensioned screens are where it's at.

BenQ W7000 Full-HD 3D Home Cinema Projector Preview

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0000

The BenQ W7000 sports a lot of the technology found in the bigger, more expensive BenQ projectors. But that doesn't mean it is cheap. With a MSRP of just under $4k, it could be a wallet-buster for an Audioholic on a budget. We've already seen the projector's street price $1500 less than that, so make sure you shop around. Incorporating many of the latest technologies, including DLP Link for syncing the active glasses, tons of features for making placement easy, REC 709 True Color, and ICFccc certification, the BenQ W7000 certainly looks to have a lot of features for the money. We'd love to see what this projector can do. We're betting it will be impressive.

Epson Home Cinema 5010 3D Projector Video Review

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 10:45:00 -0000

We seem to be hitting a lot of projectors this year, but it's no surprise since most manufacturers are releasing new 3D models that can do justice to the newest 3D Blu-ray movies. The Home Cinema 5010 is Epson's 1080p 3D projector that targets the enthusiast... make that the premier enthusiast. The 5010 is the highest model in Epson's Home Cinema lineup and it's designed to produce the richest blacks, the highest contrast ratios and the most detailed picture possible. We utilize the company's 9700UB, which is the professional model of the 8700UB, which this projector replaces. The 5010 ups the output of its predecessor to 2400 lumens. Now while we don't typically need that much light in home theaters, in 3D mode you lose a significant amount of the brightness due to the way the glasses are constantly closing and opening over each eye. With 2400 lumens and custom calibration options for 3D, Epson takes care of that and lets you calibrate the set for optimal 3D performance.

Optoma HD33 3D Projector Video Review

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 13:10:00 -0000

A couple years ago, Optoma redefined the projector market by introducing a 1080p model for under $1000. That was unheard of. What's equally unheard of is a 3D projector under $3000 - except that Optoma has now broken down that barrier again, too. And this is the model that did it, the HD33. And, you know, you'd think that doing this would result in a projector that meets the 3D spec, but perhaps drops a lot of features and sacrifices quality to do it. That's where it gets weird, in a good way, because the HD33 is actually a good projector. In fact, it's a great projector. There are several stand-out features that I'd like to point out. First, color is incredible, right out of the box. We used the Cinema mode and set the lamp to Standard to reduce light output. This gave us just under 700 lumens, perfect for our light-controlled room and a configuration that gave us deep, rich black levels.

VApex 100" Electric Projector Screen Review

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 10:05:00 -0000

It's hard to get excited about an electric projector screen... until you find one that's priced ridiculously low and includes features that should have it costing twice as much as it does. Then you begin to wonder if you've stumbled onto something... something big. Visual Apex' new VApex screens are something big. They are specially-branded "in-house" screens that the company is now offering to its customers. After all, shouldn't a company that has provided excellent customer service and sales support for years know exactly what makes a good projector screen? We figured they did but wanted to install one and go through the process to see if the quality of workmanship and attention to detail lived up to our expectations. Read on and you'll see that this screen might just change the way you think about build quality, ease-of-installation, attention to detail and optional accessories.

BenQ Joybee GP2 Mini Projector Preview

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 09:00:00 -0000

Almost every complaint we had with the BenQ Joybee GP1 was addressed with the Joybee GP2. They've greatly expanded the number and types of connections. They've included a carrying case for the power supply (and even added an optional battery). The only thing we don't know is if they've reduced the size of the power supply and if the fan noise is still an issue. With 2 gigs of internal memory, HDMI connection, Made for iPhone/iPod dock, doubling of the brightness, and so much more, it's unlikely to matter. If you thought the BenQ Joybee GP1 LED Mini Projector sounded like a good deal, for $50 more, the Joybee GP2 is an absolute steal.

Optoma PT105 Portable LED Projector Preview

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 11:00:00 -0000

We can't stress enough the price. At $230, a price that is sure to come down closer to Christmas, the Optoma PT105 hovers around the cost of a replacement bulb for your dedicated home theater projector. We can see a dual projector setup with the Optoma PT105 used as a day-to-day projector providing a decent picture that is much larger and much cheaper than any flat panel on the market. Plus, you now have a portable projector which has more uses than we can count. At this size and price, the Optoma PT105 is practically a stocking-stuffer for a home theater enthusiast.

VApex 120" Tensioned Electric Projector Screen Review

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 17:00:00 -0000

We've long taken the stance that the biggest screen you can get for your hard-earned money is a front projection system. Where it gets dicey is when you factor in the cost of a decent quality screen. If you want a tab-tensioned model on top of that, you're looking at even more and the cost benefits become less and less obvious. Visual Apex' new VApex screens (Visual Apex = VApex, get it?) are moving towards eliminating everything we know about what a projector screen should cost. The VApex line comes in three lines: Fixed Frame, Standard Electric, and Tensioned Electric. For this review we checked out the Tensioned Electric in their largest size: 120" diagonal. To say we were "stunned" by what we got for the money would be an understatement.

Epson Home Cinema 3010e WirelessHD 3D Projector Preview

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 12:10:00 -0000

A 1080p 3D capable projector with WirelessHD for only $200 over the price of the non-wireless projector? We're betting the Epson Home Cinema 3010e is going to be a popular option (once we read some reviews saying it works). Compared to the price of an HDMI cable plus the cost of installation, and you'll easily come out way ahead. Given that you're still getting all the HDMI functionality including 3D and HDMI-CEC, and there is no downside. Pair this with one of Epson's 3LCD projectors sporting 2200 lumens and 40,000:1 contrast ratio, and we think they've got a winner. We're looking forward to testing this one out.

Vivitek D8300 Large Venue Projector Preview

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 23:00:00 -0000

The Vivitek D8300 large venue projector looks to be a very nice projector for use in large venues like classrooms and boardrooms (and perhaps very large home theaters). The Gennum processor ensures that non-HD sources will look good and the plethora of inputs won't leave you searching for external switches. At 33 pounds, it it not the massive box the 6500 lumens of output would suggest. It will be able to light up a huge screen in a less than light-controlled environment. With this type of projector, that's the most important thing.

Seymour-Screen Excellence Masking Panels for Fixed Frame Screens Preview

Sat, 08 Oct 2011 08:45:00 -0000

We're very curious to see how this new masking system from Seymour-Screen Excellence works. We're sure the non-acoustically transparent option is perfect, it's the acoustically transparent ones that we'd like to see in action. While $450 might seem like a chunk of change, in comparison with every other masking system on the market, it is a huge steal. If we were on the market for a fixed-frame front projection screen, we know we'd look closely at what sort of system Seymour-Screen Excellence could put together that included the masking panels. For the price of other masking systems alone, you could probably get a full screen and the Seymour-Screen Excellence masking system.

Runco 3Dimension D-113d Projection System Preview

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 11:05:00 -0000

Runco announced the latest extension of its professional cinema 3Dimension family, the D-113d projection system. What the $200,000 D-113d does is pair Runco's Constant Stereoscopic Video (CSV) approach with the optical filters and glasses of the Panavision 3D System. The result is being billed as the brightest CSV projection in the world. The Runco D-113d enables seamless decoding, syncing and merging of stereo images to deliver a constant HD image to each eye without the flicker, distortion, or discomfort inherent in other approaches. This is a truly passive dual-projector approach. In the D-113d, Runco's CSV technology pairs with the spectral filtration technology of the Panavision 3D System and slices the entire visible spectrum is sliced into ten slim bands - with five directed to the left eye and five to the right. The result is that each eye receives the same amount of total white light energy, so the images appear equal in brightness and provide accurate color reproduction. Runco has utilized this technology from the Panavision 3D System in its PreciseColor passive glasses. This differentiates Runco's passive approach from other high-end 3D projection systems, which are based on "active" LCD shutter-glass technology.

Infocus IN5312 and IN5314 DLP Projectors Preview

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 09:45:00 -0000

InFocus announced the release of two new constant-duty commercial projectors in their IN5300 series. The projectors can allow a variety of inputs and sources and there are 3 lens options. With a small form factor and a rich feature set, both the IN5312 and IN5314 seem perfectly suited for large classrooms, conference rooms, or houses of worship. The two new projectors are nearly identical but they differ in realized lumen output and native resolution (the IN5312 is XGA and 4500 lumens and the IN5314 is WXGA and 4000 lumens). Three different lens choices are possible, including a standard zoom lens, short throw lens and long throw lens. The projectors also have horizontal and vertical lens shift, which is almost unheard of at this price with DLP and means custom installers can position the image exactly where it needs to be, or even offset the project a bit as needed to compensate for placement limitations.

Vivitek H9080FD LED DLP Projector Preview

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 20:00:00 -0000

Since the arrival of LED bulbs on the scene, we've been crying out for LED projectors. Finally, Vivitek has made our dreams come true with their new H9080FD LED projector. Well, except for the price. At a buck shy of $15,000, the H9080FD isn't exactly an impulse buy. In the CEDIA demo, Vivitek's H9080FD LED Projector was very impressive. We saw images from Inception, Tron, and Iron Man 2 on the H9080FD LED projector and were suitably impressed with its color reproduction and sharpness. We're happy that LED has come on the scene with such an impressive offering.

JVC Professional DLA-X90R 4K 3D Projector Preview

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 08:35:00 -0000

JVC came to CEDIA with a sort of braggadocio attitude. They spoke out a little on dynamic iris contrast ratios since they can't do both black levels and high output at the same time. Their answer to this was to demo material on their $11,995 DLA-RS65 reference 3-chip projector with e-shift technology. e-Shift is what JVC is using to accomplish it's pseudo-4K projection, which is intended to upscale 1080p content (which, incidentally, is about the only way anybody is going to see 4K at home in the near future). While Sony's demo utilized an actual 4K panel (albeit rather unimpressively in our instance), JVC uses electronics and video processing to establish 3840 x 2160 4K resolution by shifting the image half a pixel up and to the side at 120Hz. Where JVC might have overextended themselves is that they enhanced the lumen output of the DLA-X90R by using a 127" diagonal Stewart Reflections 170 screen material which provides 1.7 gain. The result were lots of sparkly hot spots on the screen whenever pure white was shown.

Epson MG-50 and MG-850HD MegaPlex Projectors Preview

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 08:25:00 -0000

Epson America today announced its innovative new line of portable, combo projectors, the MegaPlex MG-850HD and MegaPlex MG-50. Both systems pair a value-priced, bright projector with stereo speakers and a built-in dock that is compatible with nearly all iOS devices (iPod, iPhone and iPad). The MegaPlex projectors specifically target both entry-level home theater enthusiasts and professionals who want a single, integrated solution for presentations or movie-watching. The MegaPlex MG-850HD and MG-50 make it easy for consumers to watch movies, view presentations, share photos, or enjoy content saved on portable devices on a big screen. You can easily project, play and charge an iPod, iPhone, or iPad, or share high quality imagery from a variety of other media devices, like smartphones, PCs, tablets, or game consoles.

Screen Innovations Black Diamond Zero Edge Screen Preview

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 15:29:58 -0000

The Black Diamond Zero Edge Screen takes Screen Innovations' Black Diamond technology (which allows you to watch HD images in full ambient lighting) and alters the form factor for a whole new, contemporary look. The Zero Edge has only a quarter-inch (1/4") bezel around the circumference of the Black Diamond surface. A typical screen has anywhere from 2" to 4" of felt or border. The thing is, if you have an installation where you can dial in the mounting position just right, you really don't need much bezel to compensate for any potential keystoning or misalignment. This screen really produces the look of a super thin-bezel television that is just floating off the wall. Seeing it live at CEDIA, it's hard to not think it's rear projection or simply a DLP television embedded in a hidden drywall alcove.

Sony VPL-VW1000ES 4K SXRD 3D Home Theater Projector Preview

Sat, 10 Sep 2011 18:35:54 -0000

One of the "gotta see" events at CEDIA were the 4K projectors on hand. Now these weren't commercial theater products. Companies like Sony Electronics were releasing home theater products that bring the 4K experience to the home. That means that their new VPL-VW1000ES 4K home theater projector doesn't look like an air handler for a single family home. No, it's elegant and shiny - just as you'd expect for a $25,000 home theater projector. What's amazing is that just a few years ago $25k would have defined a high end 3-chip DLP projector. Now you can jump to 4K. I like technology and how fast it advances so quickly - we all get to benefit in the long (and often short) run.

Epson Pro Cinema 6010 3LCD Projector Preview

Sat, 10 Sep 2011 11:37:45 -0000

Among one of the brighter, no pun intended - OK, yes it was!) moments of CEDIA occurred when we witnessed the demo of Epson's new Pro Cinema 6010. This is Epson's newest Pro model (which means it comes in black and is sold through traditional dealers only). The new projector replaces the Pro Cinema 9700UB (currently our reference projector). As you'd come to expect from Epson, the new 6010 comes with a full 3-year service warranty (and there is no limit on hours of use) and that warranty service includes advance replacement (typically within 48 hours from Epson to the client). Like all Epson Pro models the price includes a spare lamp, Chief ceiling mount (this is a new mount style), and a plastic rear cable cover to dress up the connections. New for 2011's Pro Cinema 6010 is the inclusion of 2 pairs active shutter glasses... that's right, the Pro Cinema 6010 is fully 3D compatible.

Panasonic PT-AR100U Projector Preview

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 01:46:51 -0000

Panasonic had the PT-AR100U on hand at CEDIA, touting it as their "Full High-Definition" LCD Home Theater Projector with 1080p resolution. While 1,920 x 1,080 pixels doesn't win you any awards of late, the projector boasts 2,800 lumens of brightness and a 50,000:1 contrast ratio, the PT-AR100U lets home-theater enthusiasts enjoy Full-HD large screen entertainment – from movies, sports to games – in various lighting conditions. The PT-AR100U projector produces bright, sharp images by employing a new, high-power 280-watt Red-Rich Lamp and optical unit that generates 2,800 lumens of brightness - which is enough to overcome a significant amount of ambient light. In addition, Panasonic included its advanced Light Harmonizer 3 feature which will automatically adjust the output of the projector to match the ambient light levels.

Vutec SilverStar 3D-P Curved Projection Screen Preview

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 02:10:00 -0000

It's obvious that 3D technology is making a big splash in home theater - although not as fast as some manufacturers would like. This is likely due to the dearth of content available on Blu-ray and television. One thing is for certain, however, technology and manufacturers are not to blame - at least not with respect to their willingness to release products equipped to handle the new formats. Vutec introduced its newest 2D/3D-compatible product with the passive Silverstar 3D-P projection screen. This is a beautiful 2.35:1 curved screen engineered and developed specifically for HD, 2D and 3D content. The screen is a high-contrast model with ultra high gain and, more impressively, a curved wide viewing surface up to 181" diagonal (measured in 2:35:1 aspect ratio).

InFocus IN100 Series DLP Projectors Preview

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 13:00:00 -0000

InFocus has really done well with the IN100 series of projectors. By splitting the features up into a number of models and putting them all in the same enclosures, they've enabled themselves to put out many different projectors without having to stock a bunch of different enclosures. This is fairly brilliant in our opinion and will only help to keep priced down for the consumer. And in the end, who cares what case the projector is in? With a filterless design, longer-lasting bulbs, and price points starting as low as $400, we're sure the InFocus IN100 series of projectors are sure to entice businesses, schools, and home theaters buffs on a budget alike.

Sanyo PLC-WU3800 Compact Projector Preview

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 02:00:00 -0000

If you want bright, the Sanyo PLC-WU3800 has got what you need. At 3800 lumens brightness, this compact projector will give you a useable image even in the least hospitable environments. With tons of options for the inexperienced (auto setup, auto keystone, power-off and go) and the power users (Picture in Picture, Picture and Picture), there is something for everyone. With plenty of inputs (including HDMI 1.3b) and even a built in speaker, there isn't a lot this projector can't do in a business setting.

Optoma GT750 3D Gaming Projector First Look

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 12:00:00 -0000

The new GT750 is probably the first gaming projector that has really caught my eye. With its DLP Link 120Hz 3D-capable display technology, or RF 3D technology options, not only does it support computer gaming 3D, but also Blu-ray and broadcast 3D. What this means is that it is the first projector, geared toward gamers, that can be used in every 3D application. This a huge boon as it allows the projector to truly do dual duty as your everyday display, supporting all the latest video formats, and also be portable for the gamer on the go. While there are some downsides, the $799 price tag is sure to have people taking notice.

Wolf Cinema SDC-15 3D D-ILA Projector First Look

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 05:30:00 -0000

The SDC-15 retains the same boxy styling of other Wolf Cinema offerings (it almost looks like an AV amplifier more than a projector) but has a much more modest 220W lamp (the larger ones start at 500 watts). It sports an advanced three-chip, 1920x1080 D-ILA engine, a 220W lamp with 1300 ANSI brightness and 100k:1 contrast ratio, and is compatible with a number of options. That's right, for $15,000, you GET to buy the 3D kit separately. Or the Wolf Cinema ProScaler. Or the ceiling mount kit. Or the fixed anamorphic lens assemblies. Hey, but at least it's gloss black!

BenQ SH960 1080p DLP Projector First Look

Mon, 23 May 2011 11:10:00 -0000

Business projectors have it rough but the BenQ SH960 looks to be up to the challenge. With a 3000:1 contrast ratio, 5500 ANSI lumens brightness, 1.07 billion colors, horizontal and vertical lens shift, and BenQ's proprietary Wall Color Correction system for non-white projection surfaces, there is very little you can throw at the SH960 that it can't handle. While details at this point are still sketchy, we look forward to learning more (and why we should pay $7k for these features) when the projector ships in Jun.

Cineversum BlackWing MK2011 3D Projector First Look

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 16:15:00 -0000

Cineversum has released MK2011 versions of their BlackWing One, Two, and Three. Sporting 3D with active glasses, motorized zoom, focus, and lens shift (vertical and horizontal), individually calibrated for D65, and up to 100,000:1 contrast ratio, there is a lot to like. Add in the proprietary internal video processor/scaler that adapts for wide range of film and video cadences plus enhances the input signal and removes video noise, ultra quiet operation (<19dB), and optional motorized anamorphic CineTwist kit for Cinemascope, 2.35:1 viewing and we are talking about an installer's dream. The fact that prices start at $9,600 shouldn't really surprise anyone.

Screen Innovations Reference Motorized G3 Screen First Look

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 06:35:00 -0000

The new Screen Innovations Reference G3 screens are precision-cut on computerized fabric tables, are tab tensioned, and are due out in May. We like that they've made the pricing, whatever it is, the same for all the different mounting types and it seems like they've got a good number of options available. Out of the box, you've got a lot of control options and they have a ton of screen materials available. Being able to customize the screen type is also a plus for those with non-standard throw distances. If you are on the market for a screen, the Screen Innovations Reference Motorized G3 Screens are definitely worth putting into your comparison matrix.

Visual Apex VApex Fixed Frame Screens First Look

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 07:15:00 -0000

Visual Apex has released a new line of fixed screens that are easily assembled at home and are quite affordable. Sporting a CinemaWhite high gain fabric (1.1 gain, 80 degree viewing angle), the VApex (get it, Visual Apex = VApex) screens come in 92, 100, 106, 120, and 135 inches diagonal for $329, $339, $349, $399, and $499 respectively. It's hard to imagine that you could DIY a screen for less than the cost of the VApex screen. Assembly looks to be a snap, the materials all look to be very high quality, and you can go from box to watching a movie in less than an hour (it seems). If you've had your eye on a projector to bring your home theater to the next level, the Visual Apex VApex screens should be in the back of your mind.

Mitsubishi WD8200U WXGA Large Venue DLP Projector Review

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 09:20:00 -0000

Mitsubishi introduced its ultra-bright, dual-lamp WD8200U projector last summer, but we weren't able to come up with an excuse to review it until Super Bowl weekend. The DLP projector uses 1280 x 800 (WXGA) 0.65" DMD chip with Dark Chip 3 technology. What really separates this "man" from the boys, however, is the use of its dual 330W UHP lamp, which can operate the projector in dual-lamp mode for maximum brightness (in this case 6500 lumens) or non-stop sequential mode. With each lamp needing only one hour of shut-down time every week, this feature enables users to configure their lamp settings appropriate for applications that run non-stop 24/7/365 operation or in areas with variable ambient light.

Sanyo PLC-HF10000L Large Venue 2K Projector Review

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 11:00:00 -0000

Some projectors are designed for home theater, others for commercial applications. Anyone stumbling onto this review should be 100% convinced that this projector is designed, intended, and perfectly suited for large venue applications and is not created to compete with less-expensive home theater models. To be quite frank, the Sanyo PLC-HF10000L projector is in a completely different class altogether. First off, it's the world’s first "QuaDrive" projector with Real 2K resolution. What that means is this projector has, natively, a resolution of 2048 x 1080 pixels on each of its three 1.64" TFT Poly LCD panels. This not only exceeds the requirements for full HD resolution, it also makes this projector suitable for commercial cinema use. Additionally, this widescreen 3LCD projector puts out an incredible 10,000 ANSI lumens when using both of its 380W UHP lamps.

Acer K11 LED DLP Pocket Projector First Look

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 07:00:00 -0000

If you have salesmen that need to impress or if you are lacking a dedicated meeting room, a pocket projector is a must. The Acer K11 has a lot going for it. It's small, light, and portable, it's got an LED lamp which means you'll probably have to replace the projector before the lamp dies, and it is very reasonably priced. With an integrated speaker, HDMI input, and a focus on supporting all the different PC video outputs, the Acer K11 looks to be a trouble-free projector for the businessman (or woman) on the go.

Vivitek Wireless HDMI 1080p Projector Video Preview

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 11:49:56 -0000

As part of our continuing coverage with Robert Silva of About.com, we were treated to an up close-and-personal look at a new wireless projector. Vivitek showed off a new projector that includes wireless 1080p streaming capabilities. The projector itself had nothing but a power cable plugged in and, with the help of an included USB dongle, the marketing/product rep was able to stream 1080p video from a Macbook to the projector in real time (though we were unable to view frame rates). Since the Vivitek also uses DLP technology, the system can also supported 3D via DLP sync - a system that is somewhat less than reliable in our opinion but does satisfy the minimum requirements of projection 3D. Robert was kind enough to capture some video of the projector in use.

Epson 8700UB LCD Projector First Look

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 11:00:00 -0000

We've reviewed most of Epson's latest projectors and the 8700UB grabbed our attention for several reasons. First off, it can be had for a mere $2199 - bringing most of the features of its Professional big sister to a more affordable consumer level. In fact, aside from a very small amount of features, extra lamp, and an admittedly mediocre mount, the 8700UB is the spitting image of the 9700UB that represents the top of the Epson LCD line. The 8700UB features 3LCD technology with Epson's C2Fine D7 chipset and UltraBlack technology. The projector aims to please by providing some of the deepest blacks yet seen in LCD front projection systems. The delivered contrast is stated at up to 200,000:1. It also delivers sharp, detailed images with Epson’s latest Super-resolution technology, real color reproduction and frame interpolation. And with new pre-set color space selection and a new anamorphic lens mode for 2.35:1 viewing without an external processor, the Home Cinema 8700 UB really offers a cinematic experience in the home.

InFocus IN5535 WUXGA Large Venue Projector First Look

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 07:25:00 -0000

Is your home theater REALLY big? The InFocus IN5535 is a reference projector for large applications, and it looks pretty cool. It is compatible with HD video and native laptop resolutions. It is bright, quiet, and you can control it over the network. There are more than enough connections for even the most demanding of installations and all the different control ports you'd ever need. You can mate it with five different lenses depending on your situation, has motorized vertical and horizontal lens shift, automatic sensors for ceiling detection and keystone, and pincushion and barrel distortion correction. It's flexible, versatile, and can come in wood grain finish. If this sounds like what you need, and you have $10k to spend, the InFocus IN5535 might be fore you.

Epson MovieMate 85HD Projector First Look

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 09:00:00 -0000

Epson has been putting out these all-in-one projectors for a while now. They are portable, easy to use, and seem to be geared towards gamers and kids. The new MovieMate 85HD is the new flagship in this product line sporting a 3-chip, 3LCD optical engine. With a 720p (1280x800) native resolution, built in 10 watt speakers, and an integrated DVD player, the MovieMate 85D needs only a wall to aim at. It may not have all the bells and whistles you may want in your home theater projector, it does have more than enough for a projector to take to a friend's or on a business trip. HDMI and component video inputs as well as a USB port that supports an iPod means you'll be ready for whatever your friends show up with.

LG 60PX950 THX Certified 3D Plasma First Look

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 17:26:04 -0000

LG front-and-centered its new PX950, the "world's first THX Certified 3D plasma TV". It was given the red carpet treatment at the booth and to be honest it looked pretty good in terms of black levels and picture quality. LG is one of the only company's that seems to be thinking this whole 3D thing all the way through. What we mean by that is that they are the only company we experienced that has rechargeable 3D glasses, for instance. Everyone else makes you reach for a screwdriver to replace the CR2025 (or similar style) batteries every 75 hours of use. Of course, with the current crop of Blu-ray movies, that would have you watching the 3 Blu-ray discs that are available about 15 times!

JVC DLA-HD250 Projector First Look

Sat, 25 Sep 2010 01:00:00 -0000

JVC showed us their low-cost home theater projector that delivers fairly advanced D-ILA technology at an entry-level price. The new projector, to be marketed as the DLA-HD250 by JVC Consumer and the DLA-HD250Pro by JVC Professional, is priced below $3,000 and delivers 25,000:1 native contrast ratio and 1,000 ANSI lumens brightness.