Flat Panel BG

GUIDE TO
FLAT PANEL TVs

& PROJECTORS
contents flat panel TVs & projectors
Introduction PROJECTORS
About The Perfect Vision and Playback What You Need to Know Before Choosing a Projector
What Makes A Good Picture Good? New Projectors On the Horizon
Recent The Perfect Vision/Playback Projector Reviews
FLAT PANEL TVs Dreamvision Dream’E (Playback 19)
JVC DLA-HD350 (Playback 16)
What You Need to Know Before Choosing a Flat Panel TV Knoll Systems HDP1200 (Playback 25)
Mitsubishi HC5500 (Playback 17)
3DTV Is Coming: Should You Wait? Optoma HD20 (Playback 24)
Optoma HD8200 (Playback 22)
New Flat Panel TVs On the Horizon Optoma HD806 (Playback 17)
Optoma HD8600 (Playback 26)
Recent The Perfect Vision/Playback Flat Panel TV Reviews Samsung SP-A900B (Playback 23)
LG 55LH90 (Playback 23) Samsung SP-A800B (Playback 12)
Panasonic G10-Series TX-P46G10 (Playback 24) Sharp XV-Z15000 (Playback 21)
Pioneer Elite PRO-101FD (Playback 18) Sony Bravia VPL-HW10 (Playback 20)
Samsung 8500-Series UN46B8500 (Playback 26)
Samsung 7000-Series UN46B7000 (Playback 21)
Sharp Aquos LC-46LE700 (preview—The Perfect Vision 85) PROJECTion screens
Sony Bravia KDL-46W5100 (Playback 22)
Sony Bravia KDL-55XBR8 (Playback 20) What You Need to Know Before Choosing a Projection Screen
Toshiba Regza 46SV670 (Playback 25)
Vizio VF551XVT (Playback 25) New Projection Screens On the Horizon
Vizio VO42LF (Playback 18)
Recent The Perfect Vision/Playback Projection Screen Reviews
Da-Lite JKP Affinity HD Progressive (Playback 16)
DNP Supernova One (Playback 9)
Screen Innovations Black Diamond (Playback 9)
2 THE PERFECT VISION’S GUIDE TO FLAT PANEL TVS AND PROJECTORS www.avguide.com
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Guide to
flat panel displays & Projectors
T
his Guide covers three classes of product dear to the hearts What Makes A Good Picture Good? Choosing a Flat Panel TV.” We show which
Our Guide starts at ‘square one’ with an technologies make differences that actually
of home theater enthusiasts: Flat Panel TVs, Projectors, and article entitled, “What Makes a Good Picture enhance picture quality or ease of use, while
Good?” Read this first as it provides the also identifying features that have less impact
Projection Screens. Unlike many “Buyers’ Guides,” this one foundation for many of the points we’ll on performance.
discuss throughout the Guide. Then, note Then, we provide a brief insider’s look at
is not so much geared toward telling you which products to buy, but that each product section provides several new products that will soon be entering the
important articles you’ll want to check out. market: for example, “New Flat Panel TVs
rather aims to help you become a sharper, better informed, and more On the Horizon.” Use these articles to avoid
Need-to-Know Information situations where you make a purchase only to
performance-savvy consumer so that you can successfully evaluate Each product section begins with a piece discover that the model you really wanted is
that provides need-to-know information: for coming out next week…
products and make better purchase decisions on your own. example, “What You Should Know Before Finally, we provide a representative group
of recent product reviews. You can use our
reviews and recommendations to pick specific
models you might want to purchase. But
the reviews also have broader applications
because they discuss Recommended
Settings, which show you how to make
user adjustments that can greatly affect
performance, and also show how you can
use careful observations of Blu-ray movies
and HDTV broadcasts to evaluate display
performance.
Chris Martens,
Editor, AVGuide.com, Playback/
The Perfect Vision
4 FLAT PANEL TVS AND PROJECTORS BUYER’S GUIDE www.avguide.com

about
the perfect vision & playback
AVguide.com, our Buyer’s Guides and email that they still had a dedicated home theater
newsletters. Here’s a little background publication.
information on this welcomed evolution.
• Moving Forward with The Perfect Vision
• History Nextscreen LLC, a publishing and Playback We are happy to announce
company originally established as Absolute that starting in 2010, Nextscreen will refocus
Multimedia Inc., began operations in 1998 its expanding coverage of home theater
with the re-launch of the popular and under The Perfect Vision name. Content
authoritative high-end audio magazine The from The Perfect Vision will be hosted on
Absolute Sound (or TAS). A year later the the AVguide.com website and delivered to
company re-launched TAS’ sister magazine, readers vis free newsletters, and Buyer’s
The Perfect Vision (or TPV), an enthusiast- Guides like this one. Playback, in turn, will
oriented home theater magazine. ln 2007, shift back toward its roots, focusing on
NextScreen launched Playback, a digital affordable, entry-level music systems with an
magazine that initially focused on music and emphasis on headphones, personal/portable
on affordable music playback equipment. and desktop/PC-based audio components.
The AVguide.com website has served as the
online “home base” for all of Nextscreen’s • About this Guide This is the first in a series
consumer electronics publications, drawing of The Perfect Vision Buyer’s Guides that
content from TAS, TPV, Playback and other are designed to address different product
sources. categories in the home theater space
in depth. We not only review a host of
• Merging TPV with Playback In early 2008, interesting products, but also provide tips on
Y
citing economic considerations, Nextscreen what to look for prior to making a purchase,
ou will notice that this Buyer’s Guide is offered in the name of made the reluctant decision to discontinue including essential background information
publication of The Perfect Vision as a print and advice on techniical tradeoffs that you
The Perfect Vision magazine—a name that is familiar to some, magazine, but expanded the scope of may face. This Buyer’s Guide should give you
Playback to incorporate many of the topic a taste of what some of the content in the
but perhaps not all, of our readers. Given our growth over the areas previously addressed by TPV— new TPV will be like. We trust you will find it
essentially “morphing” the two publications. useful, informative, and just plain fun to read.
past year, and plans for expanded coverage in 2010, we’re happy to From a business standpoint, merging
Playback and The Perfect Vision made a Chris Martens,
resurrect the TPV moniker to help identify home theater content on lot of sense, but in also left some readers, Editor, AVGuide.com, The Perfect Vision,
manufacturers, and editorial staff wishing Playback

WHAT MAKES
A GOOD PICTURE GOOD?
David Birch-Jones
W
ithin the realm of music recording, section, and ask for a gallon of white paint, and possible the color gamut of pro-grade studio essentially three worth noting: 720p, which
mixing and reproduction in the home, most likely you’ll be directed to the merchandising monitors, having a display at home that has is 1280 x 720 pixels displayed at 60 frames
there isn’t a whole lot of rigor when it display nearby that has a range of color chips— an accurate color palette is highly important in per second (ABC, Disney, and ESPN are the
comes to standardization. What goes on in the you may encounter dozens, if not hundreds of order to achieve realistic flesh tones and colors principal backers of the 720p format), with
studio is often tricky to replicate in the home various shades of white from which to choose. that aren’t overly saturated. 1080i (1920 x 1080 pixels at 30 frames per
environment, so it can be difficult to achieve For video displays, the color of white is defined by second, or 60 interlaced field per second)
sound at home that precisely matches what color temperature—D65 or 6500° Kelvin, which Detail and Sharpness as the dominant format for everybody
was heard in the studio environment. is the color of daylight under completely overcast Detail and sharpness are also essential else. 1080p is the non-interlaced highest
(cloudy) conditions. When a display is set to qualities, and it’s important to note that with resolution system at 60 frames per second,
Studio-Grade Picture Quality output white at that color temperature, then all virtually all modern HDTVs, the out-of-the-box and is available via Blu-ray disc as well as
In Your Home other colors should be properly aligned (neither settings provide for at least some overscan, in some internet streaming services through
But with video the case is very different, as too reddish, nor to bluish). order to minimize flickering artifacts at the top some Blu-ray players, satellite set-top
there is definitely a closed loop between what of the screen that often accompany standard boxes, and game consoles such as PS3 and
a video mastering engineer can see on his Deep, Pure Blacks definition programs (or SD segments within HD Xbox 360.
monitor and what a consumer at home should On the opposite end of the luminance scale, programs). Overscan always causes some loss
be seeing on their display. Standards-setting black is easy to define—simply, an absence of of detail, which is why we identify a set’s native The Right Screen Size
bodies such as the ITU and SMPTE have clear white. With CRT and plasma displays, which are 1:1 pixel-for-pixel picture size mode (if it has for the Job
definitions as to what the performance criteria emissive technologies by nature, true black is one—most do). Similarly, a set’s factory default Modern displays are either 720p (now
for video displays and capturing systems should relatively easy to achieve. With LCD, DLP and sharpness setting can often cause a loss constituting low end models and some
be, and many modern HDTVs are equipped other types of transmissive displays, deep blacks of fine detail. Shadow detail is an important midrange sets) or 1080p, which is steadily
with picture modes that can come very close to are harder to achieve, which limits the amount of function of picture quality, as some displays growing in popularity. While 1080p sets can
the tightly defined parameters of a pro-grade contrast between black and bright white. artificially push dark gray image elements into provide improved picture detail over 720p
studio HD monitor. Ideally, viewers at home the black in the quest for more visual contrast. models, the improvement is only discernable
should be able to view images that match, to Accurate, Natural Colors Fortunately, just about all current-generation when viewers are seated reasonably close
the closest degree possible, the images viewed From a color standpoint, the gamut (or color HDTVs have at least one picture mode where to the set. Move back more than four times
by the mastering engineer and the director of palette) is similarly standardized, and for HDTV the dark grays (and therefore shadow details) a display’s picture height, and visual acuity
the original content. the ITU Rec. 709 specification details the are properly presented. drops enough that a 720p set will look just as
exact characteristics of the three primary (red, sharp as a 1080p set, which is why viewing
Getting White Right green and blue) colors and the three secondary Resolutions distance is a critical factor in determining
Of significant importance is defining the color of colors (cyan, magenta, yellow). For optimum While the HDTV standard allows for the right screen size (and definition) for any
white. Go into any hardware store that has a paint color fidelity that matches as closely as a variety of HD resolutions, there are particular scenario.

FLAT PANEL TVs:
What You Need To Know Before
Choosing A Flat Panel TV
David Birch-Jones
TECHNOLOGIES TO CONSIDER where plasma typically trounces the LCD LCD/LED Illumination Systems Compared Looking ahead, power consumption will
While first-generation HDTVs were CRT-based competition. With plasma, there’s an extra The first (and most popular) group features be a critical factor to watch, since certain
(either direct view sets, or rear projection sets layer of dimensionality to the picture, that LCD LED edgelighting, where white LEDs are states (most notably California) have recently
equipped with a trio of CRTs), these days has only recently come close to achieving, arrayed at the screen edges. Some sets have established stringent new standards that
it’s all about plasma and LCD. While rear and then only in sets that carry a price tag that the LEDs arrayed along the screen’s top and mandate dramatic reductions in power
projection DLP-powered sets are still available, exceeds that of comparably sized plasma sets bottom edges, while others have them arrayed consumption for mid- and large-size flat panel
the number of manufacturers offering them by a very substantial amount. on all four sides. TVs.
has been whittled down to one—Mitsubishi. With the current emphasis on “green” Premium LED-powered sets (of which
Virtually all other HDTV manufacturers offer technologies and reducing ecological impact there aren’t many at this point) have the LEDs CONNECTIVITY & IMPORTANT
plasma, LCD, or both. of household appliances, plasma HDTV arrayed behind the LCD imaging panel, and FEATURES
makers have responded by lowering power many of those sets (but not all) offer local Video Inputs
Plasma: Still the Quality Standard? consumption significantly, compared to earlier dimming, where the LEDs are electronically Virtually all sets offer a combination of analog
Plasma is generally considered to be the generation sets that were comparably thirsty in sectioned into blocks or “chunks” that each (composite, S-video and component) video
best performing HDTV flat panel technology, terms of power draw. feature variable backlighting for blacker inputs, along with one or more HDMI digital
as plasma is an emissive technology, with blacks and whiter whites, depending on scene inputs. Depending on the make and model,
individual pixels featuring CRT-like phosphors LCD: The Market Leader content at any given moment. there may be more or fewer analog inputs in
that are “pinged” to emit light. Available in LCD flat panels constitute the bulk of the HDTV favor of more HDMI inputs. That’s a concern
the larger screen sizes (typically from 42” on market these days, part of the reason why is Going “Green” for some buyers who have an extensive set
up), plasma HDTVs are available from three LCD TVs are able to produce remarkably bright With the current emphasis on “green” of legacy video source components that lack
main manufacturers—LG, Panasonic, and onscreen images—a potentially important technologies and on reducing the ecological digital video outputs.
Samsung. Pioneer’s premium-priced plasma benefit for those who plan to use their TVs in impact of household appliances, both plasma
sets are highly regarded as well, but they’ve brightly illuminated rooms. At this stage, many and LCD HDTV makers have responded by Ethernet Connections and Internet Content
announced their departure from the plasma midrange and top-tier sets have dispensed lowering power consumption significantly More and more sets come equipped with an
flat panel business in 2010—a shame, since with the conventional fluorescent tube compared to relatively power-hungry earlier Ethernet port for connection to a local area
their Kuro Elite models are absolutely stunning backlighting system used in earlier-generation generation sets. As a general rule, plasma sets network, allowing access to streaming internet
performers. LCD TVs, opting instead for LED-based consume more power than equivalently sized content such as movies and TV shows,
Color accuracy, black levels, shadow detail backlighting systems. Within the LED backlit LCD sets, although with modern technologies news, sports, weather, stock quotes, traffic
and extremely wide viewing angles are areas segment, there are two sub-groups. the gap is narrowing. info and the like. While relatively few homes

FLAT PANEL TVs: What You Need To Know Before Choosing A Flat Panel TV
offer hardwired multi-room LAN connections, employ the insertion of black frames between and a VCR. While most stores have their demo Seating Distance and Screen Size
wireless LAN adapters are widely available for video frames, which also helps perceived sets’ remote controls tucked away in the Seating distance is the most important criteria
a reasonable price, which solves problems video detail. As LCD is a “sample and hold” storeroom, it’s important to get your hands on for determining screen size. About 3½ to
when the TV is in one room and the PC and technology, the use of faster refresh rates the TV’s remote before making a final purchase 4 times the screen height is the optimum
wireless router are elsewhere. along with interpolation, provides for a sharper, decision. seating distance, which will allow viewers
smoother picture. to experience the most detail as well as the
Wireless HD ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS best field of view. For an eight foot viewing
Wireless HD is just now becoming available, Video Processing Mounting distance, you’ll be better off with a set in the
where the HDTV comes with an external box A number of sets feature the ability to bypass With rare exception, flat panel HDTVs come 60” (diagonal) size range in order to realize
that connects to the A/V equipment, and film-originated content smoothing, while still with some sort of stand for tabletop mounting. maximum picture detail. If you’re considering
streams HD content to the TV. This is helpful retaining the sharpening of video-originated With midrange and upper-tier sets, these can replacing a conventional 4:3 CRT TV, think
when the HDTV flat panel is wall-mounted, and content. Some movie buffs dislike the usually be removed (or simply not installed if about choosing an HDTV with a larger screen
eliminates various cable connections to the smoothing of film judder, as they feel it makes the set is shipped with the stand as a separate size. A 27” 4:3 set has roughly the same
set (though of course an AC power cord is still the resulting image too “video-y.” Samsung’s item in the carton box) so that the TV can be picture height as a 32” 16:9 HDTV set, for
required). latest premium LCD models that feature LED wall-mounted. example. A 36” old-style TV (considered a “big
edgelighting or backlighting provide the best screen” way back when) has almost the same
Higher Refresh Rates solution yet—a Custom mode that allows Screen Height and Viewing Angles picture height as a modern 46” HDTV.
Many of the current generation LCD flat panels individual control of sharpening for video- For optimum viewing, the screen’s center point
feature refresh rates of 120 Hz or 240 Hz, in originated programs, and smoothing of 24 on the vertical axis should be roughly at eye Ambient Lighting
order to provide improved picture sharpness frames-per-second film-originated content. height, which is usually about 40 inches above Both plasma and LCD HDTV types have
with fast moving video images, as well as For those that like their movies with the 24 fps the floor. While LCD flat panels are almost enough brightness to deliver a bright enough
to smooth out judder from film-originated judder artifacts intact, it is very appealing to always spec’d with a 178° viewing angle, in picture in well-lit environments, but LCD has
content. Compared to plasma or even now- have separate controls that allow film content practice there’s typically a significant contrast the edge, as that technology typically features
defunct CRT displays, LCD panels suffer from smoothing features to be turned off at will. washout when LCD TVs are viewed off axis, backlighting that can be adjusted upward,
slower response times, where fast moving and that’s in both the horizontal and vertical which can be of benefit when watching
images are accompanied by noticeable Remote Controls and User Interfaces axes. Should you want to wall-mount your daytime TV shows with the set situated near a
smear. By upping an LCD TV’s refresh rate to While the picture you see from an HDTV is LCD flat panel, you’ll be much better off by window or patio doors, for example.
double or even quadruple that of the original very important, so too is the HDTV’s user spending more on a wall-mounting fixture that
video signal, detail can be improved. This is interface, and that’s where the remote control includes vertical tilting capability, to better aim
especially noticeable with scrolling text, and design as well as the set’s on screen display the set towards the prime viewing area.
can also help improve detail with fast motion come into play. Many current models feature Plasma sets excel in viewing angle
video images such as sports programs. smartly designed remote controls that performance, and can be flat-mounted to a
Some methods work via interpolation, come with user-friendly ergonomic features, wall well above normal eye height, and yet still
where the display’s video processing engine such as backlighting, easy to read button deliver an eminently watchable picture. But, we
analyzes the incoming video signal and nomenclature, programming capability that still recommend a tilt (or better yet) a tilt-plus-
interpolates one or more new frames. In allows the TV’s remote to control a DVD or swivel wall mount for plasma flat panels.
addition to interpolation, some methods Blu-ray player, cable or satellite set-top box,

3DTV Is Coming:
Should You Wait?
David Birch-Jones
W
ith estimated production and At press time, full details hadn’t yet been your home. Polarized (passive) glasses can be
marketing costs in the hundreds of disclosed, but some announcements, made much more cheaply, but the consensus
millions of dollars, director James notably by Panasonic and Sony, (two of the seems to be that active shutter-type glasses
Cameron’s Avatar is the latest example association’s biggest heavyweights) have shed will be the way to go.
of Hollywood’s devotion to 3D-enabled some light on what to expect. Also unknown is whether or not current A/V
blockbusters, which employ highly HDTVs featuring the new technology will be receivers and processors that feature HDMI
sophisticated digital imaging technology along available in 2010, and it’s expected that the repeaters will be able to pass 3D signals
with eyeglasses that are light years ahead of first definitive announcements will be made at intact. Sony’s announcement of a firmware
the old-fashioned blue and red anaglyphic the CES show in Las Vegas in January 2010. upgrade to the PS3 (which is HDMI version
3D glasses of yesteryear. With the increased At the recent CEDIA show in September, one 1.3-equipped) doesn’t jive with the HDMI
emphasis on 3D movies, there’s a similar of Panasonic’s top executives indicated that Licensing company’s statements that 3D will
emphasis to push 3D into the home. they would have 3D flat panel models available require version 1.4 hardware and cabling.
2010 will be the year that real 3D HDTV by summer 2010, in screen sizes from One other important consideration is the
arrives in the marketplace. Up to now, only a 50-inches and up, more than one 3D-capable dimmer picture that accompanies 3D. The
very few HDTV sets featured some sort of 3D Blu-ray player, and that at launch there would HDTV isn’t any dimmer when displaying 3D
capability, and in the fine print in the marketing be roughly 50~60 3D titles available on Blu-ray. content, but the 3D glasses do attenuate
materials that describe those models, set A Sony executive recently confirmed that picture brightness to a noticeable degree.
makers indicated that the 3D function would they’ll have product announcements very This won’t be a problem for LCD-based TVs
only work with a select few PC game titles, and soon, and that they’ll offer a firmware upgrade that feature variable backlighting, but for
that a sufficiently powerful gaming PC would to the PS3 gaming console which will make it larger plasma sets, which are more limited in
be required. 3D compatible. their peak brightness abilities (especially with
Earlier in 2009, the Blu-ray Disc Association At the moment, there are more questions respect to power consumption guidelines
(comprised of electronics manufacturers and than answers, including what type of 3D established by the EPA’s Energy Star program),
the major Hollywood studios that release glasses will be needed. Shutter-type glasses achieving a suitably bright 3D picture might
HD titles on Blu-ray discs) announced that feature LCD-based lenses that quickly switch pose additional challenges.
they would band together and decide on a from transparent to opaque to match the left- If the prospect of 3D HDTV is of high interest
unified standard for 3D in the home, with the right screen images, and they may carry retail to you, it might make sense to hold off a bit
expectation that a standard would be ratified prices as high as $200 a pair—something to before you shell out big bucks for a current
by the end of the year. consider if there are a lot of family members in generation HDTV flat panel or front projector.

new flat panel TVs on the horizon
by: David Birch-Jones
LG’s announcements at the CEDIA Expo 2009

included their 55LHX wireless 1080p LED-powered
55” LCD flat panel set that features local dimming
along with THX certification, which provides a
picture mode that more closely approximates that of
professional studio-grade HD monitors. Their LH85
models are ISF-certified, and provide wireless 1080p
functionality, in 47” and 55” sizes. In the slim-profile
category, they’ve also debuted 47” and 42” LED-
powered models, further evidence of the shift away
from fluorescent backlighting to LED technology,
which provides improved efficiency and greater
“green” credentials.
Mistsubishi debuted 46” and 52” 1080p LCD

models that feature Internet connectivity and that are
compatible with their new VUDU wireless accessory
bridge, which provides access to VUDU’s library of
HD and SD movies and shows. VUDU claims that
their service offers the most titles available in HD—
with more than 2,200 high def choices.
NuVision, a premium tier company that specializes

in flat panel TVs for the CEDIA custom installation
channel, have introduced their FX5 top-line 1080p
HDTV panels, which feature LED edgelighting, with
40”, 46” and 55” variants.
Panasonic previewed their 3D technology with

a demonstration featuring a 103” plasma TV and 3D
HD clips from the Disney/Pixar film Up. A Panasonic
executive stated that the firm plans to have 3D
HDTVs on sale by mid-2010 in the larger screen
sizes (50” on up), along with 3D-compatible Blu-ray
players, and that they expect 50-60 3D Blu-ray titles
at launch.

new flat panel TVs on the horizon
Samsung, which is the world’s largest manufacturer of

HDTV flat panels of both the plasma and LCD varieties,
has announced the addition of a 65” set to their 650
series of LCD HDTVs (unlike their 7000, 8000 and 8500
LED-powered models, the 650 series is equipped with
conventional fluorescent backlighting) and is priced at
$5,999.99.
Sony rolled out two premium LED edgelit models in their

XBR10 series (46” and 52”), with 240 Hz refresh and wireless
HD connectivity via an optional external box, which eliminates
the need for signal cable runs when a set is wall-mounted.
TV shows and movie streaming are available via Amazon on
Demand and Netflix.
Toshiba adds to their line of LED-backlit HDTVs with the

arrival of SV670 series models in 46” and 55” sizes. Their
240 Hz refresh system combines 120 Hz frame interpolation
and along with alternating black frames to achieve the 240
Hz effect. The sets offer local dimming, which provides
improved contrast when an image contains both light and
dark portions.
Vizio has announced that its top tier XVT models, such
as the VF551XVT reviewed in this Guide, will shift to LED
backlighting systems with local dimming (which Vizio calls
TruLED and Smart Dimming, respectively). Vizio’s TruLED
models will be offered in 42”, 47”, and 55” screen sizes. But
perhaps even bigger news is that Vizio’s higher-end models
will also be Ethernet-enabled and have access to the firm’s
very extensive Vizio Internet Apps (or VIA) package, with
Internet content partners including Accedo Broadband,
Amazon Video on Demand, Blockbuster on Demand, eBay,
Facebook, Flickr, Netflix, Pandora, Radiotime, Revision 3,
Rallypoint Sports, Rhapsody, Twitter, and VUDU.

flat panel TVs
go to: projectors | projection screens
LG 55LH90 LCD HDTV

some other LG models, the LH90 series features
audio tweaking by famed audio designer Mr.
Mark Levinson. While the set’s audio performance
wiTH LED Backlighting

could never be called hi-fi (and is no substitute
for an external audio system, which we always
recommend), any attempt to improve on typically
mediocre TV audio is to be commended.
David Birch-Jones Features

LED local dimming backlighting is the principal
W
hile not the first LCD HDTVs to be differentiating feature here, compared to
THX certified, LG’s LH90 series sets the more common fluorescent backlighting
are indeed the first to be available in used in most other LCD flat panels. There are
the US and the first LED backlit LCD flat panels many hundreds of white LEDs spread behind
to attain that status. The THX certification is the LCD panel (1,500 in the case of the 55”
noteworthy, as many video aficionados consider model), and the local dimming function allows
LCD to be a decidedly second-rate player in variable brightness across the screen image,
terms of pure video performance compared to
plasma, and obtaining THX certification is no
small accomplishment—they are quite the fussy
bunch. I’ve witnessed first-hand the extensive
testing that the THX Video program entails at
overview
their San Rafael, CA facility, and I can safely Consider this HDTV if:
say that there is no other third-party display you’d like a big screen LCD flat panel that
evaluation program that goes as deep into is packed with the latest technologies,
video performance assessment as they do. The such as 240 Hz refresh and local dimming
ISF certification adds additional video tuning LED backlighting.
functionality, with a suite of picture adjustments Look elsewhere if:
intended for use by professional calibrators, you’re looking for a flat panel with a
along with the ability to lock critical picture usefully wide viewing angle, as the LG’s
parameters afterwards to prevent inadvertent off-axis contrast is noticeably faded
user mis-adjustment. compared to direct on-center viewing with
Along with the LED local dimming backlighting, moderate and dimly lit scenes. Consider
LG equips the set with their 240 Hz refresh instead one of LG’s fine-performing
technology, which aims to smooth out judder plasma sets, which have plasma’s typically
from film sources while also sharpening up fast very wide viewing angle.
motion with fast action video content. As with

flat panel TVs
boosting brighter sections for more visual pop, The THX Cinema mode provides a more to the basic picture adjustments—they can Connectivity
and dimming darker sections for better deep natural-looking picture than the set’s quite only be accessed with that mode through Four HDMI inputs should be enough for most,
blacks and dark grays. bright and too vivid default Standard mode, the Picture Wizard. If adjustments are made, and two HD-capable component inputs and
The 55LH90 features both THX and ISF but I found the THX mode’s default backlight then they’re saved to the ISF Expert 1 mode, two composite inputs should be enough to
certification, a first for an LCD HDTV, with the setting to be too low for viewing in moderate which provides an extensive set of additional handle additional HD and SD sources. There’s
set providing a built-in picture tuning system or bright ambient light situations—dialing up adjustments best left to a professional an RGB PC input along with a USB port for
called Picture Wizard that includes a high the backlighting control a few steps easily calibrator. There’s also an ambient room light picture viewing, MP3 listening and video
resolution test image along with test patterns, corrected that problem without causing sensor that can adjust the overall backlighting viewing. An optical digital audio output is also
which largely obviates the need for a DVD or unnecessary glare. level automatically. provided. One of the HDMI inputs, the USB
Blu-ray test disc for basic picture adjustments. Interestingly, the THX mode bars access port, and one of the composite inputs are
PERFORMANCE
Source Detail Color Blacks Shadow Detail Artifacts/Noise
An early scene has Jennifer This movie’s color palette is As you would expect from a Here’s where LCD often comes The LG looks pretty good on-
Garner’s character driving all over the map, vivid in some local dimming LED backlit LCD up short, but in numerous night- axis, but once you move off-axis
her car across a bridge on a scenes, muted and pale in others. set, the LG delivers great deep time scenes shot inside a car, (either vertically or horizon-
sunny day, and the LG puts out a The LG does a pretty good job of blacks. The Blu-ray release is the darkly lit interior is easily tally), there’s noticeable contrast
(Blu-ray) bright, vivid and crisp picture, no delivering realistic flesh tones in in the movie’s original “scope” discernable. fade and washout on scenes
doubt aided by the LED dynamic the more naturally lit scenes. widescreen aspect ratio, and the with middle and low average
The Day The
backlighting letterbox black bars are just that picture level (a scene’s overall
Earth Stood Still – totally black. brightness). Darkly lit scenes
(2008) exhibit significant contrast fade
when viewed off-axis, exacer-
bated by the local dimming func-
tion, which produces an equally
objectionable halo effect.
On brightly lit scenes, the LG Selecting the THX picture mode That same test subject wears a jet A close-up shot of an aroma Once again, the off-axis image
does a good job of delivering tones down the LG’s overly vivid black dress over her white blouse, therapist’s collection of bottles is noticeably washed out during
(Broadcast white details (LCD sets often default color depiction, which ren- which the LG presents as suitably of various scents housed in a moderately lit scenes, compared
“clip” bright whites, which causes ders unnatural, almost cartoonish deep black. cabinet has the top shelf mostly to front-and-center viewing.
HDTV)
a loss of detail). One of the show’s flesh tones.With the THX mode, in the shadows, and the bottles
Penn & Teller:
test subjects wears a frilly white skin tones are much more realis- on the back of the top shelf are
Bulls***! blouse, and is shown in front of a tic and natural-looking. easily discerned.
(Showtime) bright white wall that features a
textured paint effect, and the LG
delineates both very well.

flat panel TVs
tucked away on an inset side panel. Picture Mode THX Cinema/ISF Expert 1 wall mounted, choose a mount that offers both
USER INTERFACE
On Screen Display
HD size (pixel-to-pixel)
Color Temperature
Color Gamut
Just Scan
Warm
Wide
horizontal and vertical tilt capabilities to get
the set properly oriented toward the principal
viewing area. TPV
specs/pricing
Big and bold, the G10’s OSD is easy to use. Backlight 50 Screen size: 55” diagonal 
With big, bold graphics and highly legible text, Gamma Medium (2.2 result) Ratings Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080 
1:1 Mode: Yes 
the LG’s OSD is one of the best designed Black Level Low
overall picture quality (SD) Video inputs: 4 HDMI, 2 component,
interfaces out there. When making picture Edge Enhancement Off 2 composite, 1 RGB PC 
adjustments, the slider bars stay on screen Color Filter Off overall picture quality (HD) Other connections: 4 stereo audio inputs,
until the user decides they’re no longer needed, Eye Care On 1 3.5mm PC audio input, 1 optical digital
which is a major plus. Accessing pictures, audio Real Cinema On (5:5 pulldown features audio output, 1 USB, 1 ATSC/NTSC/
and video clips from the USB port is somewhat for 24p Blu-ray movie input) ClearQAM RF input, 1 RS-232 control/
connectivity service port 
slow and clunky however, but the set handles 240 Hz Low Dimensions (W x H x D): 54.1” x 38”

even 1080p/60 and 1080p/24 high resolution Dynamic Contrast Off x 17.9” (w/stand) 
video stored on a thumb drive. A secondary Dynamic Color Off
user interface
Weight: 86.4 lb. 
Quick Menu provides access to picture modes, NR Off Warranty: 1 year parts & labor 
value Price: $3,200
inputs and the like. Intelligent Sensor Your call
LG  
Remote Control Bottom Line: 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 (800) 243-0000 
An overall good design, the remote features From a feature standpoint, LG’s 55LH90 is www.lgusa.com
the preferred amber backlighting, compared to pretty much packed, and the local dimming
the typical red or blue, for better contrast in low LED backlighting most certainly aids in
ambient light conditions. The number keypad delivering deep, rich inky blacks. About all
features large buttons with clearly legible that’s missing is LAN connectivity and the
numerals, and the cursor keys and central enter ability to connect to one of the streaming video
button are spaced sufficiently far apart. No services, but some LG Blu-ray players now
direct input buttons are provided, however. offer that functionality (via Roxio’s CinemaNow,
Netflix and YouTube). The combination of both
RECOMMENDED
SETTINGS THX Video and ISF certification along with
While the THX Cinema mode provides good LG’s Picture Wizard tuning function assures an
overall color and contrast, the default backlight overall great picture.
level for that mode is somewhat dim, so use But, the set does suffer from some off-axis
the Picture Wizard to up the backlighting level contrast fade along with noticeable halo effects
a few notches. associated with the local dimming function
Color 42 with moderate and dimly lit scenes. Choose
Tint 0 this set if you are able to sit front-and-center
Sharpness 50 Horizontal/50 Vertical (horizontally as well as vertically) or, if it is to be

flat panel TVs
Panasonic G10-Series I
f the common wisdom is that LCD is Amazon’s Video On Demand service eliminate
killing plasma, well, someone forgot to tell trips to the local video store or mailbox to rent
Panasonic, who has substantially increased or buy SD and HD shows.
their plasma presence (and plans to continue
THX-Certified
to do so with yet another new next-gen plasma Connectivity
panel factory slated to go online next year). Compared to other sets in its class, the
Offering multiple tiers of plasma models, their Panasonic only comes up a bit short in
Plasma TV
G10 series, which features models in 42”, 50” the HDMI department, with three inputs as
and 54” sizes, as well as the 46” model (the opposed to the usual four. But there are two
TX-P46G10) under review here, might be the HD-compatible component inputs, so the set
ones that hit that magic sweet spot between offers a total of five HD inputs, which should
David Birch-Jones features and performance, and price. All are full be enough for most users. Unlike many sets
1080p sets, and all are both THX certified and which only offer component and composite
Energy Star qualified, and include Internet movie inputs, the G10 is equipped with an S-video
streaming via Amazon’s Video On Demand input, which will be of interest to those with
subscription service. Recent price trimming
includes a $100 drop on the 42” set, and $200
cuts on the 50” and 54” sets, putting the 54” set
at a suggested retail of under $2,000 – a fraction
of what well-performing 50” 720p plasma sets
overview
went for just a few years ago (and without the Consider this HDTV if:
expanded feature set of today’s lineup). you’d like a plasma flat panel that provides
excellent picture quality that exceeds that
Features of just about any LCD flat panel equivalent.
THX certification is what sets the G10 series The 50” set at $1,600 and the 54” set
apart from other popularly-priced plasma at under $2K are superb values by any
models, and the THX mode puts the set into measure. Viewing angle is yet another
essentially studio monitor-grade condition, advantage that plasma enjoys over LCD,
which provides exemplary colorimetry (accurate and the G10 features anti-glare screen
color tone rendition) as well as optimum gamma coating for better contrast under high
to eliminate white clip and black crush. ambient light conditions.
Panasonic’s Viera Cast internet via LAN Look elsewhere if:
connectivity provides access to online services you need a super-bright picture, as that’s the
such as YouTube videos, Bloomberg’s financial one key advantage that LCD holds over plasma.
news service, Google’s Picassa web photo For most users however, the Panasonic’s
album viewer, as well as a weather widget. picture will probably be bright enough.
Streaming movies and TV shows from

flat panel TVs
legacy S-video sources such as S-VHS VCRs equipped. There’s an RGB PC input to round up the Viera Cast function presents a number Remote Control
and/or camcorders and the like. There are two out the connectivity package. Some of the of windows from which to choose, and getting While the remote features backlighting, it is
composite inputs, but one of them is shared connections are on a side-mounted input panel around is fairly straightforward. As with other virtually useless, since the only buttons that are
with the S-video input, so it’s an either-or for hookup convenience, including one of the internet-enabled sets, the Viera Cast function backlit are the two large and easily accessible
choice there. HDMI inputs and the SD card slot. takes a few seconds to load. volume and channel up/down rocker buttons.
Since Panasonic is one of the three co- To set the weather widget to your local zip However, the number keypad is larger than
developers of the SD flash card standard, it’s USER INTERFACE code requires entering the numbers via the on- most and features quite legible markings.
no surprise that the G10 comes equipped On Screen Display screen virtual keypad, rather than just punching Likewise, the transport command buttons at
with an SD card reader slot. But that’s in lieu Big and bold, the G10’s OSD is easy to the numbers in using the remote’s number the bottom of the remote are larger than most,
of a USB port, which will be of concern to navigate, and the Viera Cast button (which keypad – a bit of an oddity perhaps, but since it’s and the four colored Blu-ray special function
those who’d like to hook up their portable calls up the internet widgets and the like) is top a one-time thing, it shouldn’t be too bothersome. buttons are also larger than most and are
media player or other device that’s USB- dead center above the cursor keypad. Calling easier to find, being nearby the cursor keypad
PERFORMANCE
Scrolling text on a computer At the THX default, the various A nighttime scene has a black Another nighttime scene has None noted.
screen is clearly legible (al- actors’ skin tones are somewhat car moving down a darkened two actors in a car wearing black
though such scrolling text went on the rich side. Some viewers street, and the G10 rendered leather coats and the G10 has
out around the time that Com- like this, but I don’t, and turn- virtually perfect deep blacks no problem delineating various
puServe did). ing down the color control a bit and clearly delineated very dark dark gray shadow details with
(Blu-ray )
yielded more believable flesh grays – here is an example (yet the clothing as well as the car’s
Duplicity tones (with this movie, as well as again) of where plasma clearly interior.
numerous other reference clips excels, and the G10 comes
from various Blu-ray test discs). oh-so-close to what I’m used to
seeing on my reference Pioneer
Kuro Elite plasma flat panel.
A slow-motion close-up view of With the color saturation Many players sport all black Late in the game, a number None noted.
a shot off the fairway shows the trimmed back a bit (40-45 seems outfits, including shirts, caps and of shots showing players with
blades of grass blades gracefully to work best), the G10 puts forth slacks.The G10’s superiority in the late afternoon sun at their
(Broadcast sheared off as the ball launches natural and believable flesh tones. delivering superb deep blacks backs reveal very good shadow
HDTV) towards the green and the iron (compared to the typical LCD flat detail, as the foreground picture
PGA Golf follows closely behind. A similar panel) is clearly evident. detail remains solid and dis-
(NBC) slow-motion close-up shot of cernible.
a ball launched from a trap by
a sand wedge has the individual
grains of sand clearly discernible.

flat panel TVs
Block NR Off
Mosquito NR
Black Level
3:2 Pulldown
Off
Light
On
specs/pricing
Screen size: 46” diagonal 
Bottom Line: Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080 
1:1 Mode: Yes 
I never cease to be amazed at the short-
Video inputs: 3 HDMI, 2 component, 1 S-
term memory that some pundits exhibit video, 2 composite (1 shared with S-video),
when they talk about HDTV flat panel pricing 1 RGB PC 
(“still too expensive!”), especially when it Other connections: 4 stereo audio inputs,
comes to larger plasma sets. Here we have 1 3.5mm PC analog stereo input, 1 stereo
a THX-certified set that includes just about analog output, 1 optical digital audio output,
1 SD Card slot, 1 RJ-45 LAN port, 1 ATSC/
(but not all) of the bells and whistles, and NTSC/ClearQAM RF input 
that carries a retail price that’s about a third Dimensions (W x H x D): 44.6” x 30.2” x
of what a similar-sized set sold for just a few 15.8” (w/stand) 
years ago. Weight: 68.4 lb. 
There’s no question that the THX Warranty: 1 year, parts & labor 
Price: $1,500
certification contributes to picture quality (the
THX mode puts the set into near-calibrated PANASONIC
overall performance), and the internet 888-843-9788 
connectivity is icing on the cake. Yes, the www.panasonic.com
remote could be better (Samsung has set
the bar extremely high in that department),
and one might quibble that perhaps the Ratings
rather than at the far bottom of the remote, gamut) is very, very good, as is the gamma Netflix streaming service might have been
overall picture quality (SD)
which is often the case. curve, which yields a virtually perfect 2.18 the better choice for instant access to
result, which helps render deep blacks and dark movies and shows, but overall Panasonic overall picture quality (HD)
RECOMMENDED
SETTINGS grays without the usual black crush. has delivered another winner with their G10
Choosing the THX setting yields by far the best Color 45 series, especially when you factor in the price/ features
overall picture quality, as you would expect. Tint 0 performance ratio. TPV
However, the overall brightness is somewhat Sharpness 50 connectivity

dim compared to other modes, and can’t be Picture Mode THX
increased. The default color saturation setting HD size (1:1 pixel-to-pixel) Just
user interface

provides a rather rich and perhaps over- Color Temperature Warm 2 value
saturated color tone – dialing the color control Color Management Off
down a few notches yields more natural-looking CATS Off
flesh tones. The THX mode’s colorimetry (color Video NR Weak 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

flat panel TVs
Pioneer Kuro A
revamped cousin of Pioneer’s excellent and wall mounting, Pioneer does away with
Kuro Elite 50-inch and 60-inch plasma attached speakers and a table-top stand
HDTVs, the 50-inch PRO-101FD with this set, and the company also forgoes
Elite PRO-101FD
monitor tested here (a 60-inch version is an internal ATSC/NTSC tuner. Instead, the
also available) is stripped of three features emphasis is on custom installation friendliness,
that many users don’t want or need. It has with IP/LAN connectivity for integrator setup.
plasma monitor
no speakers (as an external audio system is By deliberately leaving out features, the
assumed), no built-in tuner (hence the monitor monitors are slimmer than comparable full-
designation, as an external cable or satellite featured TV models, with a svelte 2 ½-inch
box/DVR is likely to provide the video signal) cabinet depth. A deluxe owner’s manual
and no table-top stand (Pioneer assumes package includes a certificate from the factory
Chris Martens most monitors will be wall-mounted, although (here in the U.S where the set is assembled, I
it does offer a table-top stand as an option).
Custom integrator-friendly, the set features IP/
k
LAN connectivity with the ability to set critical
picture characteristics using a computer and
web browser.
overview
Playbmaecnded
Recom It is bittersweet that this Pioneer will be “the Consider this HD Monitor if:
2009 last of the Mohicans” as Pioneer has recently you’re going to go with wall mounting,
announced that, due to market pressures and a cable or satellite tuner/DVR and an
high cost factors, it will be exiting the HDTV external audio setup, as you won’t be
business in 2010. This news is doubly sad paying for speakers and a table-top stand
given that the firm’s recent Kuro Elite offerings that will most likely end up in a landfill.
have in many ways set the standard for plasma But most of all, consider the Kuro Elite if
HDTV picture quality. Premium-priced (but you value extraordinary picture quality;
still a bargain considering what similarly-sized this set meets the color and gray scale
plasma sets used to retail for just five or six specifications of the HDTV standard better
years ago), Kuro sets continue to provide state- than any other we’ve tested.
of-the-art picture quality that the majority of Look elsewhere if:
LCD flat panels can only aspire to. you’ll be needing an ATSC/NTSC tuner for
over-the-air local broadcasts, as well as
Features supplied speakers and a table-top stand.
The news here isn’t what this latest in Pioneer’s Pioneer’s Kuro Elite HDTV sets provide
Kuro Elite monitor line (sub-branded as their these features and essentially the same
“Signature Series”) has, but rather what it picture quality as this monitor does, and at
doesn’t have. Knowing full well that many comparable prices.
customers will go with external audio systems

flat panel TVs
might add) stating the inclusion of specially- fifth HDMI input with a suitable adaptor), the a tad plain-looking, but it’s a useful design RECOMMENDED SETTINGS
selected components and more thorough set only has one component video input and that avoids common mistakes (such as taking While the Kuro Elite (like its cousins) features
testing prior to shipment, including white a solitary composite input, which might be an up large areas of the screen, thus hindering the usual Vivid, Sport and other picture
balance calibration and phosphor pre-aging issue for some, and no side panel convenience picture adjustment tasks). memory settings, the only one you want to
among others, along with web access to each connections, which should be no surprise for choose is Pure, which puts the set basically
set’s white balance calibration results. It also a set that is intended for wall-mounting. An Remote Control into studio monitor mode, with outstanding
has additional configuration options that will RJ-45 IP/LAN port allows a custom integrator Here again, I prefer Pioneer’s earlier design, colorimetry and gray scale characteristics that,
appeal to the Hollywood post-production to get the set tuned up via a web browser. which had larger buttons with easier to read out-of-the-box, provide picture performance
community who desire a reference-grade HD An analog PC input is also provided, which labels. The current design is somewhat that is truly state-of-the-art. Choose the Pure
studio monitor. accepts resolutions of up to 1920x1200. cramped, with numerous small buttons that mode, and you’ll instantly get calibrated video
may have some users reaching for reading performance that is as good as it gets. The
Connectivity User Interface glasses. It is backlit though, which is a help. Pure mode also turns off just about all of the
Above average digital connectivity, with four On Screen Display I’m guessing that for most custom-installation so-called picture “enhancement” functions,
HDMI inputs supplanted by an additional DVI I actually prefer Pioneer’s earlier OSD over customers the remote will be replaced by a most of which aren’t necessary with quality
input (which can be pressed into service as a this latest iteration, which is text-based and more user-friendly touch-screen setup. video sources such as HDTV and Blu-ray.
PERFORMANCE
Lionsgate’s opener features This movie’s color is all over the A jet-black vintage Jaguar saloon Dimly lit tunnel scenes as the None noted.
transmission-like gears, some of map. Many indoor scenes feature (sports sedan) with correspond- crooks work their way under-
which are burnished with fine a yellowish, sepia-like tone, while ing black interior looks stunning neath to the bank vault are
brush marks that are easily evi- outdoor scenes feature a more – here is where an excellent clear, with easily visible details
(Blu-Ray) dent, as you would expect from a natural color palette. The Pio- plasma punches the lights out of – another strength that plasma
The Bank Job 1080p display. neer’s excellent colorimetry re- most LCD displays. has over LCD (but the gap is
veals the cinema photographer’s narrowing somewhat lately).
intent to produce a ’70’s “feel.”
Featuring first-rate production Live direct-to-HD video of Two of the three season-opener The studio setting isn’t awash None noted.
(Broadcast values, this on-the-edge satirical real people in a studio setting guests are wearing dark black with light all over the place, a
talk show is captured in crisp is a top choice for evaluating outfits, and here the Pioneer credit to the lighting designer.
HDTV)
1080i, with easily discernable set skin tones, and here this latest shows off plasma’s superiority Guest commentators are in
Real Time With
details that show some of the Kuro Elite plasma is as good as over LCD at delivering sumptu- front of set elements that are in
Bill Maher background cabinetry could use a its predecessors at outputting ous deep blacks. the shadows, but are otherwise
(HBO) paint touch-up. natural, realistic flesh colors, free easily discernable.
of overt embellishment.

flat panel TVs
Color 0
Tint
Sharpness
Picture Mode
0
-15
Pure
specs/pricing
HD size (pixel-to-pixel) Dot by Dot Screen size: 50” diagonal
Color Temperature Low Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080
1:1 Mode: Yes
Color Space 2
Video inputs: 4 HDMI, 1 DVI, 1 component,
Gamma 1 1 composite, 1 RGB PC
Other connections: 1 RJ-45 LAN, 1 RS
Bottom Line: 232C serial port (for service), 1 IR output
This latest (and sadly, last) Kuro Elite Dimensions (W x H x D): 48.5” x 28.5” x
plasma monitor builds on the strengths of 2.5” (w/o optional stand)
Weight: 69.2 lb.
its predecessors, with a host of custom Warranty: 2 years parts & labor
installation-friendly features, and a simply Price: $4,500
gorgeous picture (when in Pure mode) that
meets, to the highest degree I’ve ever seen, the Pioneer Electronics
exact colorimetry and gray scale characteristics (800) 421-1404
www.pioneerelectronics.com
laid out in the HDTV technical standard. With
so many other sets, achieving this lofty goal
isn’t always possible, even after a thorough
professional calibration. Ratings
This is an absolutely superb performer in all
critical respects, and can be recommended

without hesitation for those looking for the best
overall picture quality (HD)
possible flat panel HD picture quality. TPV
features

connectivity

user interface

value

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

flat panel TVs
SAMSUNG UN46B8500 T
his is it. This top of the range Samsung and you’re looking at an out-in-front performer
is presently the ne plus ultra of LCD in every way.
HDTVs, packed with just about every
LCD HDTV with

bell and whistle that Samsung can toss into the Features
mix. LED local dimming technology is the prime At the top end of Samsung’s extensive range
feature, whereby conventional fluorescent of LED-powered sets, the 8500 series includes
LED Backlighting
backlighting is replaced by many hundreds every possible feature that their engineers have
of individual white LEDs that are themselves in their arsenal. In addition to the 46” size tested
grouped into independently controllable zones, here, there’s a 55” model as well. True 240 Hz
which allows for dimming of darker scene screen refresh provides for sharper video and
David Birch-Jones elements for maximum contrast and deep smoother film images, and Samsung’s latest
blacks that now rival the best plasma sets. video processors (there are three in the 8500)
Add in true 240 Hz screen refresh, handle the various deinterlacing, upconversion
sophisticated video processing that is top class and other chores, and do so admirably. One of
in every way, an elegant cabinet with a dual the functions detects 480i SD material that’s
color acrylic bezel and an included rotatable been upconverted to 1080i HD, such as SD
stand, the HDTV industry’s best remote control, commercials carried on HD channels, as well
as SD elements within an HD program (such
as news clips). The processor analyzes the
k
Playbmaecnded
overview entire HD signal, extracts the SD content and
re-processes and then upconverts it for better
image quality, eliminating crawling dots on color
Recom
2009 Consider this HDTV if: transitions and moiré artifacts.
you’re after the state-of-the-art in 1080p Of special note is the Samsung’s ability to de-
LCD HDTV with LED local dimming couple the video sharpening and film smoothing
technology, 240 Hz refresh, LAN/internet functions. The Auto Motion Plus 240Hz feature
connectivity and a full suite of picture includes a special Custom mode, which has
processing adjustments. one 10-step adjustment for video sharpening
Look elsewhere if: and another for film smoothing. Some movie
you’re pinching pennies, as this Samsung buffs aren’t thrilled with the film smoothing
carries a price tag that puts it squarely function in these latest generation sets, which
at the very top of the luxury pricing tier. can result in images that are too “video-y”. For
Consider instead one of Samsung’s them, the ability to neuter the film smoothing
excellent plasma sets—their top-line 50” function while still enjoying the improved
860 series set carries a retail price that’s sharpness of fast motion video-originated
whopping $1,400 less than the 8500. images will be a major plus. There’s also a split
screen demo mode that lets you evaluate the

flat panel TVs
effectiveness of the functions. foot-Lamberts, which is plenty bright for even miserly for a larger set. upgrade provides Internet TV show and movie
The local dimming LED backlighting function a well-lit room, while at the same time allowing The presence of a LAN port permits streaming via Blockbuster’s online service. The
works like a charm, and the LED backlighting sumptuous deep blacks and dark grays. With connection to a home network, and the set set also finds any DLNA-certified multimedia
has ten levels from which to choose—the bright HD scenes at that setting, the power includes a variety of Yahoo-branded widgets PCs on the network and can access various
midway setting delivers a peak white of 46 draw was around 140 watts or so, which is fairly for news, sports, weather and the like. A recent pictures, videos and music files. Two USB ports
PERFORMANCE
Although only recently released on With the Samsung set to Movie The copyright “guilt screen” The brass players are stationed in None noted.
Blu-ray, this concert is an ensemble mode and the color tempera- message at the very beginning front of a black scrim drop-cloth
of performances that were shot in ture set to Warm 2, the 8500 of the disc is simple white text background, and it’s easy to see
high definition way back in 1997 goes into HD studio reference against a black background, and the folds in the curtain during
and 1998 (Japanese national broad- monitor mode.The color analyzer the background is as black as their close-up shots. Similarly, the
caster and HD pioneer NHK is confirms the set’s colorimetry is can be—virtually no hint of gray woofers in the various Peavey
(Blu-ray) listed in the production credits, nearly perfect, and the brightly lit at all. There’s no need to activate bass bins in front of the drum kit
Earth, Wind & Fire and brief glimpses of one of the concert stage is awash in color the Dynamic Contrast function are easy to discern from behind
Live At main cameras reveals the NHK lighting that comes across with to get these great blacks, either. the cabinets’ protective metal
Montreux logo).You’d never know by looking lots of vividness. mesh grilles.
at the crisp images of the E,W&F
veterans having a ball playing their
various hits are from early genera-
tion HD equipment. Choose the
Screen Fit picture size to get pixel-
perfect 1080p results.
Newsman Lester Holt fills in for The Samsung offers a color en- The Samsung offers a color en- Numerous graphics feature None noted.
regular anchor Brian Williams, and hancement feature, but I found no hancement feature, but I found no boundaries delineated by jet-
the picture quality is simply pris- need to activate it, as the set de- need to activate it, as the set de- black borders, and during brief
tine. Guests visiting at the time livers extremely accurate colors livers extremely accurate colors moments between the program
(Broadcast remarked how the picture looked (confirmed by the color analyzer) (confirmed by the color analyzer) and commercials, the screen
HDTV) ever so much better than they ex- with realistic flesh tones with the with realistic flesh tones with the is completely darkened and is
NBC Nightly News pected from HDTV.Test patterns Movie mode and Warm 2 color Movie mode and Warm 2 color totally black. This is the kind of
(NBC) from a Sencore HD generator temperature settings. temperature settings. black performance typical of
and the Spears & Munsil Blu-ray plasma sets.
test disc confirm that the 1080i
deinterlacing function works
superbly, with no artifacts at all.

flat panel TVs
also support music, video and picture viewing. pose a problem for HDMI cables with thick Samsung premium-tier sets, the 8500’s remote
Dressed in Samsung’s signature Touch of Color connectors. That caveat is clearly pointed is likewise a standout of good ergonomic
livery, the 8500 includes a manual swivel stand. out in warnings on the rear panel as well as design. The remote features clearly legible
During a recent visit to Samsung’s headquarters in the owner’s manual. There are four HDMI button nomenclature, with large number pad
in South Korea, I was able to see how they inputs arrayed down a side-accessible jack indicators. The backlighting system is touch-
manage to produce a single piece bezel that pack, along with one of the two USB inputs, activated and is super-sensitive—just picking
incorporates both clear and opaque areas. A an optical digital audio output (but no analog up the remote activates the lighting function,
massive dual-mode injection molding system is stereo outputs) and a 3.5mm stereo audio and there’s a photocell that deactivates the
sized about one third that of a subway car, and input for connection to a PC. backlighting when the room is well lit, which
features four 16” hydraulically-actuated screws Along the bottom-facing input row is a single helps to prolong battery life.
that squeeze the huge dies together during component input with companion stereo analog The center cursor pad features an iPod-like
the molding process, which includes clear and input jacks, the RF input, PC input, the second click/wheel system, which also provides disc
colored acrylic pellets as the main ingredients. USB port and the power connector. There’s a transport chapter skip forward and back modes.
Some other Samsung sets feature a dark single composite input, but that’s shared with New for the 8500 series is the addition of RF
burgundy/clear bezel, while the 8500 models the component connection, so it’s an either/ capability, which greatly expands the coverage
feature a more demure black and smoked gray or scenario. For users that have multiple legacy area, and helps if the set is mounted in a custom
treatment, which imparts an air of quiet elegance. source components that are equipped only with cabinet that blocks the front panel’s IR eye.
analog video outputs, the Samsung’s lack of A small companion “easy” remote is
Connectivity connectivity there may be of concern. The RGB supplied, but it only includes power on/
The 8500 features an incredibly slim cabinet, PC connection supports full 1920 x 1080 signals. off, volume up/down and channel up/down
only 1.6” deep, which is remarkably svelte User Interface functions. It can’t be programmed for cable
for an LED backlit LCD HDTV, but might On Screen Display or satellite set-top boxes however, so its
The Samsung’s on screen display is one of the usefulness will probably be limited to those
Ratings best in the industry, with clearly legible text, who have either over-the-air or direct-to-the-
and logical groupings. The volume control icon TV cable connections.
resembles a speaker driver, with a graphic
overall picture quality (HD) ring that shows the volume level, as well as RECOMMENDED SETTINGS
a numerical indicator, a nice touch. A soft As with other recent Samsung sets, the
features blue arc at the bottom center of the set glows Movie mode and color temperature Warm 2
when the set is powered on, but that can be setting combine to provide superb measured
connectivity disabled, as can the brief musical tones that performance along with a great picture.

announce the set is powering on and off. The Auto Motion Plus 240Hz Custom mode
user interface provides separate adjustments for video

value Remote Control sharpening and film smoothing, which is an
The TV industry’s best remote control just got a advantage over other systems that provide
little bit better. Virtually identical in appearance only an on/off choice.
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 to the excellent remote that ships with other

flat panel TVs
Color 50 xvYCC Off (unless connected to an HD

Tint G50/R50 camcorder that supports xvYCC)
Sharpness 20 Smart LED On
Picture Mode Movie Digital NR Auto
HD size (pixel-to-pixel) Screen Fit
Color Temperature Warm 2 Bottom Line:
Dynamic Contrast Off Priced for the very well-heeled, the 8500 series
Backlight 5 pretty much sets the standard for LCD flat panel
Gamma +1 (2.28 result) performance. The video signal processing is
Black Tone Off excellent, and does a great job of upconverting
Dynamic Contrast Off and re-processing SD-originated video signals.
Color Space Auto The 240 Hz screen refresh is also similarly
Flesh Tone 0 competent, and the ability to individually tune the
Edge Enhancement Off processing for video-originated and film-originated
LED Motion Plus On content is a major plus.
Compared to some other LCD flat panels that
feature LED local dimming backlighting, the 8500’s
specs/pricing incredibly slim cabinet depth of only 1.6 inches

adds to the visual appeal of the set. The remote
control is also the best HDTV remote currently
Screen size: 46” diagonal on the market, and the added RF transmitting
Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080 function will aid in placement versatility.
1:1 Mode: Yes
The only area where the Samsung is wanting
Video inputs: 4 HDMI, 1 component,
1 composite (shared with the component is the connectivity issue. Only one SD or HD
input), 1 RGB PC analog input is provided, and that will be a
Other connections: 1 stereo audio input, concern for at least some buyers. The recently-
1 3.5mm PC audio input, 1 optical digital added Blockbuster streaming capability puts
audio output, 2 USB, 1 ATSC/NTSC/Clear- the set in the company of other LAN-equipped
QAM RF input, 1 service port
Dimensions (W x H x D): 44.5” x 29.9” x models (but that service is still relatively new,
10.9” (w/stand) with limited HD titles at this point).
Weight: 61.3 lb. From a performance standpoint, the
Warranty: 1 year, parts & labor Samsung is first rate, with a picture that comes
Price: $3,600 close to what top performing plasmas provide,
which is a high compliment indeed. TPV
SAMSUNG
(800) 726-7864
www.samsung.com/us

flat panel TVs
Samsung UN46B7000 W
ith their new 7000 series of LED variable diffusion guide light plate and lens for
backlit LCD flat panel HDTVs, optimum uniformity across the entire screen.
Samsung has hastened the inevitable Samsung’s latest video processing engine
LCD HDTV with

death of conventional fluorescent tube includes numerous picture enhancement
backlighting. Unlike their top-line 950 models, modes, and their 120 Hz Auto Motion Plus
which feature banks of individual white LEDs system now features separate de-blur and de-
LED Backlighting
spread behind the LCD imaging panel, the judder controls for video-originated and film-
7000 series features white LED strips at the originated content, letting you dial in exactly
screen’s edges, with a light guide plate that the amount of smoothing you want.
channels the light over the entire screen. The
David Birch-Jones guide plate also features a variable diffusion Connectivity
system to ensure even light distribution for The slim cabinet depth precludes a traditional
optimum imaging uniformity. input panel, so the Samsung has inset HDMI
There are a number of benefits to using and USB ports along the left center of the rear
LEDs for backlighting, including lower power panel, with the component input and other
k consumption (Samsung says around 40% less ports arrayed horizontally along the lower rear
Playbmaecnded
Recom than a comparably-sized conventionally backlit cabinet center. The only concern here is that
2009 set), slimmer cabinet depth (a svelte 1.2”), eco-
friendliness (no mercury, lead or other nasties), and
consistent lighting characteristics along with long life.
Available in 55” and 46” sizes, the 7000 series sets
also benefit from Samsung’s latest video processor,
overview
an in-house creation that provides numerous picture Consider this HDTV if:
enhancements, including film and video blur and you’re looking for a star performer that
judder elimination and advanced 120 Hz processing produces a great picture, has great
(the step-up 8000 series is essentially the same, but cosmetics and super-slim depth, and
features 240 Hz processing). comes with a well-designed remote
control.
Features Look elsewhere if:
LED backlighting is what sets this Samsung you can find another $500 in your piggy-
apart from conventional LCD flat panels, bank, as that will let you purchase
which utilize fluorescent tube backlighting. Samsung’s top-line 950 model which
With the 7000 series, the LEDs aren’t directly features local dimming LED backlighting,
behind the panel, but are instead arrayed at and is simply the best-performing LCD flat
the panel edges, with their light channeled panel currently out there.
across the back of the LCD imaging panel via a

flat panel TVs
PERFORMANCE
Clean and sharp, the newly-con- This action thriller has a retired An early scene has Neeson’s That same scene shows that Even with Dynamic Contrast
figured Auto Motion Plus 120 government spook (Liam character wearing a black the Samsung is free of dreaded turned off, the Samsung still
Hz de-judder control can be Neeson) on the hunt for his leather coat in the back seat of “black crush”, revealing dark does some noodling with the
dialed up or down to reduce, if kidnapped daughter in Europe, an SUV at night, and the Sam- details of the vehicles interior. backlight levels on very dark
not outright eliminate, film- and features a lush color palette sung does a great job produc- scenes, producing some vis-
induced judder. Some cinephiles with natural skin tones that the ing nice, inky blacks. ible shifts in brightness at low
(Blu-ray)
like their movies with obvious Samsung does a great job with average picture levels. It can’t be
Taken film judder (it’s more “movie- (on the test bench, it turned in turned off, unfortunately.
like” that way, they say). I like a virtually perfect colorimetry
how the Samsung smooths out score).
the judder, with no artifacts
(the default mid-setting works
just fine).
Shot on film (as most episodic Wonderfully rich, but without A cop show set in LA has the With good blacks usually comes None noted.
prime time shows are), then con- overt exaggeration, the 7000’s vir- various lead actors wearing the good shadow detail, and the
(Broadcast verted to 1080i high-def, this series tually perfect colorimetry ensures distinctive all-black LAPD uni- 7000 doesn’t disappoint here.
HDTV) is wonderfully sharp and crisp, and natural skin tones without the forms, and the 7000’s deep black
Southland the 7000’s de-blur 120 Hz feature orangey tinge that some other quality is superior to most other
(NBC) does a good job of sharpening up sets display. LCD sets.
the detail.The default middle posi-
tion provides great results
the spacing around the four HDMI inputs might movie download services such as Netflix. Remote Control without those features, the 7000’s remote is
be a bit tight for some cables that feature Samsung’s top models ship with what I think still one of the best-designed out there.
bulky connectors – the ones I had on hand USER INTERFACE is the industry’s best-designed TV remote. The
just barely fit. (To Samsung’s credit, a warning On Screen Display remote that comes with the 7000 series is very RECOMMENDED
SETTINGS
label advising just that is placed right next to Featuring colorful graphics, logical groupings similar, but not exactly the same. It features As with other recently tested Samsung sets,
the inputs). The USB ports allow connection and clearly legible text that can be seen across large buttons with easy to read nomenclature, going with the Movie picture mode and the
to thumb drives, portable HDD units and the room, the Samsung’s OSD is a model of and is backlit with a gentle amber lighting Warm 2 color temperature mode provides
such for audio and video file playback. A LAN good ergonomic design. One flaw is that the color – the optimum choice for viewing in a results that are oh-so-close to what’s
port allows connection to the home network, picture adjustment slider bars disappear after darkened room. It doesn’t have the iPod-like achievable after a full calibration. (See settings,
to access various internet widgets such as only a few seconds of non-use, a common click/scroll cursor wheel however, nor does below).
Yahoo! Video, news/sports/weather and the fault found on some other brands. it have the auto backlighting function that’s Color 50
like, but this Samsung doesn’t have access to activated when the remote is picked up. Even Tint 50/50

flat panel TVs
Sharpness 10 Bottom Line:

Picture Mode Movie While pricey, the Samsung’s stunning cabinet design
HD size (pixel-to-pixel) Screen Fit and thin depth make it ideal for both wall mounting
Color Temperature Warm 2 as well as tabletop mounting. The supplied stand
Color Space Auto features manual swivel, and Samsung offers a
Film Mode Auto 2 novel optional wall mount system that allows the
Gamma 0 (2.2 result) set to be closer to the wall than can be achieved
Dynamic Contrast Off via a conventional wall mount. At the #4 backlight
Black Tone Off level setting, the 7000 still puts out a healthy 45
De-blur (for video content) 5 foot-Lamberts of brightness, more than enough for
De-judder (for film content) 5 daytime viewing in a well-lit room. At that level, calling
Edge Enhancement Off up the Info screen shows a dial gauge showing how
DNR Auto “green” the set is compared to conventional LCD,
Color Space Auto and I measured a relatively paltry 110 watts of power
Flesh Tone Off consumption, which will certainly keep the greenies
happy. Off axis viewing is also noticeably improved
compared to most other LCD flat panels, but still
specs/pricing short of what plasma provides in this area. The

occasionally noticeable picture shift during scene
changes and fades-to-black is about the only nit I
Screen size: 46” diagonal  can pick with the 7000, which in all other respects is
Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080  a champion performer. TPV
1:1 Mode: Yes 
1 composite, 1 RGB PC  Ratings
Other connections: 2 stereo audio inputs,
1 3.5mm PC audio input, 1 optical digital

audio output, 2 USB, 1 RJ-45 LAN, 1 ATSC/
NTSC/ClearQAM RF input, 1 service port  overall picture quality (HD)

Dimensions (W x H x D): 44.4” x 30.2” x
10.8” (w/stand)  features
Weight: 50.5 lb. 

Warranty: 1 years parts & labor  connectivity
Price: $2,900
user interface
SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS 
(800) 726-7864  value
www.samsung.com/us
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

flat panel TVs
SHARP LC-46LE700UN W
hen it comes to LCD flat panel TV, NASDAQ stock quotes, NAVTEK traffic info,
Sharp could be considered as the and MSNBC’s internet site, among others.
standard bearer. Unlike some other That LAN connection also provides access to
LCD HDTV with

manufacturers who offer both LCD and plasma Sharp’s customer-centric AQUOS Advantage
sets, Sharp has been especially vociferous in Live support service, which lets Sharp’s
championing LCD technology as the way to go. support staff remotely access the TV in case
LED Backlighting
Now, they’re amongst the growing number of of trouble or setup woes, and provide instant
LCD manufacturers to offer LED backlighting. re-configuration of virtually any setting. Should
While the imaging panel itself is still LCD- an owner need assistance, a toll-free phone call
based, the replacement of conventional to their support center allows the technician
David Birch-Jones fluorescent backlighting with an array of to “poll” the set from afar, check the various
white LEDs instead provides a number of settings and even take control of the set to
benefits, including improved backlighting level effect any changes. Given the complexity of
control, a thinner cabinet profile, and a major today’s various video hookup scenarios, this
step forward in going “green”, as there are can be a boon to consumers who might be
no nasties such as mercury, volatile organic overwhelmed when setting up TV, or run into
compounds and the like in these latest sets, other misery further down the road.
not to mention decreased power consumption,
which over time can shave numerous dollars
off the electric bill.
The key difference between the Sharp sets
and other LED backlit competitors is that their
overview
models (at least at the present time) don’t Consider this HDTV if:
offer local dimming. That feature (which is you’d like a well-performing HDTV flat panel
more expensive to implement) divides up the from an established LCD manufacturer and
LED backlighting array into independently you want LED backlighting technology.
controlled zones, allowing more precise control Look elsewhere if:
of backlit levels, which increases perceived you require a set with LED backligting and
contrast when there are lighter and darker local dimming, as that feature is missing
areas within the image. here. Also absent is provision for movie
With their new LE700 series models (which and TV show streaming from providers
include 52”, 40” and 32” variants in addition such as Netflix, Blockbuster or Amazon, to
to the 46” set under review here), Sharp name just three (many competitive LAN-
provides a LAN connection (wired) to your enabled sets now provide this), although
home network along with a variety of widgets it’s conceivable that the feature may be
to access various internet content such as added sometime in the future (or not).
Access Hollywood entertainment news,

flat panel TVs
Features areas are surrounded by a soft gray fringe to a home network, and includes a variety of with one of the component inputs, and three
The key differentiator is LED backlighting, (think white text on black backgrounds such as internet content widgets that can be viewed in composite inputs are provided, but two are
which dispenses with the usual cold cathode movie credits and the like). both split-screen and full-screen modes (but shared with other inputs. For most users, the
fluorescent backlighting in favor of an array Along with the LED backlighting, the set no movie and TV show streaming as of yet). Sharp’s input complement should be more
of white LEDs. This method uses less energy, includes 120 Hz screen refresh, which works The set also features a USB port that allows than sufficient. For connection to an external
and provides for better control of the backlight via interpolation as opposed to the cheaper picture viewing and music playback, as well as audio system (always recommended), there
level, allowing greater contrast and better deep and lesser-performing black screen insertion service technician access. are stereo analog audio outputs as well as an
blacks. method. This allows for sharper fast motion optical digital audio output. An RGB PC input
The lack of local dimming isn’t necessarily a video images along with a smoother, more Connectivity is provided, but the maximum resolution is
strike against the set, however. Local dimming, judder-free look with film-originated content. While some manufacturers are cutting back limited to 1600 x 1200, and an RS-232C port
which has the LED array configured as an For fussy film aficionados who like their movies on the number of analog HD component allows for external system control.
assemblage of independently controlled zones, with the archaic 24 frames-per-second judder video inputs in favor of more HDMI inputs,
promises greater contrast when the image artifacts intact, the feature can be turned Sharp provides a full-featured HD input User Interface
contains both bright and dark areas, but the off independently of the video-sharpening complement, including four HDMI inputs and On Screen Display
tradeoff there is an occasionally noticeable function, which is a plus. two HD-compatible component inputs. An For the variable picture adjustments, the
halo effect, where bright portions near darker The Sharp does feature LAN connectivity S-video input is provided, but that’s shared Sharp features both slider bars and numeric
PERFORMANCE
The disc’s menu features finely The movie’s color palette is Lots of great deep blacks Here’s where LCD typically runs None noted.
detailed graphics incorporating muted as befits its goth horror abound in the movie, which the into trouble, but the Sharp has
single pixel width lines, which are flick genre, with heavy emphasis Sharp does a great job of pre- no problem presenting good
(Blu-ray) perfectly delineated (use the Dot on monotonic black and gray ele- senting, thanks in large part to shadow detail in the movie’s om-
Underworld by Dot screen size choice in View ments, but with the color control the LED backlighting system. nipresent nighttime scenes and
Evolution Mode). trimmed back, the occasional the many darkly-lit interior shots.
splashes of color are realistic,
including skin tones in a few well-
lit closeups.
An episode has the crew testing Skin tones are naturally present- That same screen graphic fea- Numerous scenes in the None noted.
demolition control materials, and ed, but that’s with the color con- tures a deep black background, protective metal shed have the
(Broadcast a screen graphic features finely trol turned down and the color which comes across as inky and crew sheltered from the vari-
HDTV) detailed powder particles that temperature set to Low. Some rich, as you would expect from ous detonations in the show,
Smash Lab come through crisp and sharp, outdoor scenes set in the late an LED backlit set. An HDTV and feature brightly-lit elements
(Planet Green) with no moiré. afternoon feature colors with a advertisement also features a (the window) and darker ele-
suitably burnished late-day glow pure black background that is ments in the shadows, which
and look very natural indeed. similarly black. the Sharp has no problem with.

flat panel TVs
reddish nor bluish). With the backlight at the Ratings

minus 3 setting, the set puts out a reasonable
40 foot-Lamberts, and draws only around 75-
85 watts from the wall socket, which is a paltry overall picture quality (HD)
amount compared to similarly-sized flat panel
HDTVs of yore. features
Color 10
Tint 0 connectivity

Sharpness 0
Picture Mode Standard
user interface

HD size (pixel-to-pixel) Dot by Dot value
Color Temperature Low
Active Contrast Off
Fine Motion Enhancement On 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Film Mode Auto
OPC Off
DNR
Gamma
Backlight
Auto
0 (2.19 result)
-3
specs/pricing
indicators. There are a plethora of picture down buttons are. Also inexplicable is the Screen size: 46” diagonal
adjustments, including white balance (gray placement of the channel flashback button, Bottom Line: Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080
1:1 Mode: Yes
scale) and color management system controls which is nested above instead of next to At $2,000 for the 46” version, the Sharp
that will allow a professional calibrator to get the channel up/down buttons. There are no LED backlit LCD HDTV is strongly worth video (shared with 1 of the composite inputs),
the set tuned just right. direct input buttons either, which means considering. While 240 Hz screen refresh and 3 composite inputs (2 are shared with other
toggling through the various inputs, and the LED local dimming are the hallmarks of today’s inputs), 1 RGB PC
Remote Control source button itself isn’t very large. Overall, a top-tier LCD HDTVs, those features command Other connections: 3 stereo audio inputs, 1
Not one of the better remote controls out disappointing design compared to some other, a premium price. Sharp strikes a nice balance 3.5mm PC audio input, 1 stereo audio output,
1 optical digital audio output, 1 USB, 1 ATSC/
there, unfortunately, as the Sharp’s remote is better remotes out there. between providing the key benefits of LED NTSC/ClearQAM RF input, 1 Ethernet port
definitely dated compared to other offerings backlighting and 120 Hz screen refresh, while Dimensions (W x H x D): 43.3” x 29.2” x
(notably Samsung’s excellent remotes). The RECOMMENDED
SETTINGS keeping the price down compared to many 13.9” (w/stand)
remote is backlit, but the backlighting area is The default Home mode is way too color-rich, other top-line sets out there. Weight: 47.4 lb.
confined to a small patch in the center of the so your first step after adjusting the brightness Areas for improvement are the remote Warranty: 1 year parts & labor
Price: $2000
remote around the volume and channel up/ and contrast controls is to tone down the color control, which is simply not up to scratch for
down buttons, and is quite dim. control. The Low color temperature control a premium HDTV these days, and the lack of SHARP
Those buttons are angled and not terribly puts the set right at the recommended D65 Internet movie and TV show streaming (at the (800) 237-4277
large, and the mute button is on the opposite neutral color temperature, which provides the present time—it’s possible that those features www.sharpusa.com
side of the remote from where the volume up/ most natural whites and grays (neither overly could be added at a later date). TPV

flat panel TVs
Sony BRAVIA T
his latest Bravia 1080p 46” LCD set (also or rental. The rental prices are mostly either
available in other sizes) features built-in $2.99 or $3.99 per SD (DVD quality) movies,
movie and TV streaming capability via and a couple of dollars more for the HD
KDL-46W5100
Amazon’s new (and still in beta at presstime) equivalent (most of both types come with the
Video on Demand service, which provides standard 24-hour viewing window; a select
both SD as well as HD movie and TV shows few movies I noted were available for 48 hour
1080p LCD TV
for rental and purchase (there are also some rental, but with a higher price tag). A purchase
freebies offered, such as short subjects along option is provided with many (but not all)
the lines of bonus material found on DVDs and choices–the content isn’t actually downloaded
Blu-ray discs, and a few movie trailers). permanently to the set, but remains available
While their selection is somewhat limited for for viewing at any time, with unlimited repeats,
David Birch-Jones now (compared to Netflix, for example), expect in most cases.
it to grow exponentially as time goes on. In
addition to the Amazon streaming service, Connectivity
there are also over twenty five other content With four HDMI inputs and two component
services offered, including YouTube, Sony inputs the Sony is well equipped to handle a
Pictures, Sony Music, and Sports Illustrated, variety of HD sources, and the set also features
to name just four. You’ll need a broadband an RGB PC input that is HD-compatible. There
internet connection for these features, of is also one S-video input and a composite
course. A handful of Yahoo! widgets (news,
weather, sports) rounds out the online feature
package. Note: At presstime Sony announced
that they’re adding Netflix capability to their
Bravia Internet Video platform this fall, which
overview
greatly expands the range of streaming movie Consider this HDTV if:
and show choices. you’d like a very good-looking picture
along with a quite broad range of Internet
Features –accessible video channels and movies
With most sets in the Sony’s price range on demand via Amazon. This latest Sony
offering 1080p resolution and 120 Hz screen dispenses with the need for an optional
refresh, here the main differentiation is the outboard Internet video adapter (as was
broad range of internet content channels that the case with some prior models).
the Sony provides. Of the more than twenty– Look elsewhere if:
five content providers offered, it’s Amazon’s you’re not so interested in the 120 Hz
new Video on Demand service and Netflix that screen refresh or internet video capabilities
will probably capture the most attention, with as these functions do add cost to the set.
both HD and SD shows available for purchase

flat panel TVs
input, but those are shared so it’s an either/or the remote brings up the most-used picture it seems). The rounded back side features Sharpness Min
situation. A USB port allows photo, music and and audio controls (among others), and the grooves that help improve grip and a finger Picture Mode Custom
video playback from thumb drives and the like, adjustments and menus remain onscreen for notch near the top that aids in using the cursor HD size (pixel-to-pixel) Full Pixel
and the LAN port is the gateway to the internet as long as you like, which is very helpful when keypad and surrounding buttons. Color Temperature Warm 2
content functions (as well as allowing access making adjustments with test discs. NR Off
to DLNA multimedia-enabled PCs that are on RECOMMENDED
SETTINGS Gamma 0 (2.4 result)
the home network). Remote Control Go right to the Custom picture mode and in an MPEG NR Off
The slender remote features a clearly legible instant the Sony configures itself to deliver top Motionflow Standard
USER INTERFACE numeric keypad, along with dedicated internet notch picture performance. Do trim down the Cinemotion Auto 1
On Screen Display video and widget buttons. While not backlit, backlighting (the default is too bright) and also Black Corrector Off
No surprises here, as the set features Sony’s the remote’s overall layout is sensible with scale back the color saturation a few notches Adv. Contrast Enhancer Off
tried-and-true Xross Media Bar interface that an easy to find Home button that brings up to tame some over-richness. Auto Light Limiter Off
is very user-friendly (and will be quite familiar the main menu. The remote doesn’t have Color 45 Clear White Off
to PlayStation owners). The Options button on dedicated input buttons (few do these days, Tint 0 Live Color Off
PERFORMANCE
The movie features scenes shot Turning the color control down The principal characters often With the backlighting dialed None noted.
in a variety of European locales a few notches helps restore travel around in black sedans, down, the blacks and dark
as well as New York City, and more realistic flesh tones. The and with the backlighting grays are noticeably improved,
(Blu-ray) the picture is clear and crisp measured color accuracy in the control turned down, the deep which certainly helps with the
The International throughout, with numerous Custom picture mode is really blacks come across very well numerous nighttime scenes in
shots of both classic and mod- very good, very close to the indeed. this movie.
ern architecture that are richly results obtained from a studio-
detailed. grade calibrated monitor.
A little on the soft side, but A tad on the rich side at the fac- Quite good, but only when the Overall pretty good, although None noted.
that’s not the Sony’s fault, as tory default middle setting.Turning backlight setting is lowered. The some darkly-lit nighttime scenes
more and more cable and the color down a few steps helps default middle setting puts out an exhibit a bit of black crush, but
(Broadcast satellite channels go HD, the tame the over-richness. overly bright 72 foot-Lamberts. not as much as I’ve noted with
extra compression of MPEG-4 At the “2” backlight setting, the some other LCD sets.
HDTV)
can cause some loss of detail. set puts out about 49 ft.L, which
Reno 911! On test patterns and with the is plenty enough for daytime
(Comedy Central) screen set to Full Pixel (1:1) viewing and not so much that
mode, the set shows perfect nighttime viewing will cause eye
1080p resolution. strain, and improves the deep
blacks in the process.

flat panel TVs
Bottom Line:
This set has a lot going for it, not the least of
which is the Internet-enabled Amazon Video on
Demand feature (and the forthcoming Netflix
specs/pricing
capability), which worked just fine with both Screen size: 46” diagonal 
HD and SD material, as well as the inclusion of Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080 
1:1 Mode: Yes 
the Custom picture mode (something I haven’t
Video inputs: 4 HDMI, 2 component, 1 com-
seen on prior Sony sets) that provides excellent posite/1 S-video (shared), 1 RGB PC 
measured performance. The connectivity Other connections: 4 stereo audio inputs, 1
includes legacy inputs (SD and analog HD), 3.5mm PC audio input, 1 optical digital audio
along with four HDMI inputs and an HD- output, 1 USB, 1 RJ-45 LAN, 1 ATSC/NTSC/
compatible RGB PC input. The wide range of ClearQAM RF input, 1 service port 
Dimensions (W x H x D): 37.7” x 25.6” x
the variable backlighting allows for adjusting 11.9” (w/stand) 
light output for just about any ambient light Weight: 42.1 lb. 
environment, and the 120 Hz refresh feature Warranty: 1 year parts & labor 
works without any apparent artifacts. TPV Price: $2,099.99
SONY 
Ratings (877) 865-7669 
overall picture quality (SD) www.sonystyle.com


features

connectivity

user interface

value

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

flat panel TVs
Sony Bravia A
long with off-axis contrast degradation, Fortunately, the set is equipped with ex-
LCD flat panel HDTVs typically suffer tensive picture adjustment options, and can
KDL-55XBR8
from poor reproduction of deep be (eventually) dialed-in to produce a superb
blacks. Why? Because the fluorescent-driven picture, with breathtakingly deep blacks that
backlighting and the LCD pixel elements’ are simply not possible with conventional LCD
LCD HDTV
inability to deliver a true opaque (total light fluorescent backlighting technology. Do follow
blocking) state combine to prevent displaying our full list of recommended picture settings
the kind of true deep blacks that plasma to get the best picture this Bravia is capable of
technology typically delivers. But what if LCD producing.
sets could offer a better lighting system?
David Birch-Jones The answer, as delivered here with Sony’s Connectivity
top-line Bravia XBR8-series models (such You’d expect a premium-priced set like the
as the 55-inch version tested here, and its XBR8 to have a full connectivity suite, and
available 46-inch sibling), is to toss out the Sony provides just about every connection
fluorescent-powered backlight and instead use you’ll need save for CableCard, which will only
multiple banks of LEDs, which can be modu- be an issue for a very few users. Four HDMI
lated according to the average picture level and two component inputs should be enough
k
Playbmaecnded across many segments of the screen surface for even the most deluxe home theater system
Recom )also known as local dimming). Unlike Sam- setup, and a side panel jack pack includes one
2009 sung, who uses white LED backlighting in their
top-end 950 series sets, Sony’s approach is to
use triads of red, green and blue LEDs—each
system claiming advantages over the other. overview
Features Consider this HDTV if:
Obviously, LED backlighting with local zone you’re looking for an LCD flat panel that
dimming is this set’s star attraction, and Sony has the impressive light output that only
provides extensive picture adjustment options LCD can deliver, along with deep blacks
and enhancements. But even when set to the that approach and even surpass those of
Home option upon first start-up (as opposed to the better plasma sets.
the Retail “torch” option), the default settings Look elsewhere if:
are still so far off the mark as to render the pic- you’re on a tight budget, as LED
ture unwatchable, with overly bright and harsh backlighting is an expensive technology
contrast and excessive color emphasis that is to implement, and this Bravia is definitely
almost painful to watch under normal ambient priced for the well-heeled.
lighting conditions.

flat panel TVs
of the HDMI inputs along with a USB port, and a breeze. I do wish the source component transport Motion Enhancer (120Hz) Standard
composite and stereo audio inputs for tempo- buttons (Play, Pause, Stop, etc.) were some- LED Dynamic Control Low
rarily hooking up a game console. Remote Control what larger, but they too are backlit, so they’re NR Off
Mostly good news to report, as the XBR8’s not overly hard to navigate in a darkened MPEG NR Off
USER INTERFACE remote features backlighting which is always theater room. DRC Mode Off
On Screen Display desirable, although I would have opted for Black Corrector Off
Featuring Sony’s Xross Media Bar graphical white or amber as opposed to the blue back- RECOMMENDED SETTINGS Advanced C.E. Off
user interface as popularized with the com- light color provided here. The cursor keypad is Color 40 Clear White Off
pany’s PlayStation3 and other A/V compo- surrounded by oft-used function buttons, and Tint 0 Live Color Off
nents, the graphics are clear and the fonts the numeric keypad sports large numerals on Sharpness 50
are large, with logical menu groupings and equally large buttons. An Options choice takes Picture Mode Cinema Bottom Line:
picture adjustments that feature slider bars and you right to the picture and audio adjustment Backlight 3 There’s no doubt about it—LED backlighting with
numerical readouts visible even from far away. sub-menus, and the muting button is directly HD size (pixel-to-pixel) Full Pixel local dimming is the best thing to happen to LCD
Plus, the sub-menus and adjustment indica- astride the volume up and down keys, the Color Temperature Warm 2 flat panel technology, ever. Forget about 120Hz,
tors don’t run and hide after a few seconds, logical placement choice that seems to escape Color Space Standard or even 240Hz (or higher) screen refresh, as that
making initial setup and subsequent fine tuning other remote control designers. Gamma Off feature adds only minimal picture improvement,
PERFORMANCE
source Detail Color Blacks Shadow Detail Artifacts/Noise
Right from the disc’s open- At the default settings, the color “Bam!” as Emeril Lagasse would Scenes where Frank Langella’s None noted, except for the oc-
ing menu, the Sony puts forth is way over the top. Turning the say, the disc’s menu features large Nixon character emerges from casional ever-so-slight modula-
a super-sharp rendition of the color control down about 20% sections of deep black space, his limo into bright daylight re- tion of the LED local dimming,
graphics, as you would expect from the default mid-point, and and here the local dimming LED veal the car’s interior details that as evidenced by the halo effect
from a 1080p display. choosing the Standard color backlighting delivers the blackest are easy to see, with no crushed around the liquid drop of
(Blu-ray)
space puts everything just where blacks yet seen from an LCD blacks and obscured dark grays Imagine’s splash screen at the
Frost/Nixon it should be, with a rich and natu- display. as is usually the case with LCD. beginning of the film. Set the
ral color palette that is as good LED Dynamic Control at the
as it gets. minimum setting to enjoy the
maximum benefit with minimum
“pumping” artifacts.
Crisp, clear and wonderfully de- The Bulls’ red uniforms are The on-screen graphics feature Floor shots aimed at the sta- None noted.
(Broadcast tailed, the Bravia’s 120Hz feature suitably vivid and richly colored, segments that are reproduced dium’s upper levels show very
HDTV) does sharpen up fast shots and but only with the Standard color with the kind of inky blacks that good shadow detail even though
NBA Playoffs pans. Choose the Standard mode space, which more closely (very LCD has heretofore been un- the foreground is awash with
(TNT) for optimum detail enhancement closely at that) matches the able to display properly. brightly lit segments.
and minimum artifacts. HDTV color standard.

flat panel TVs
compared to the rich, inky blacks and wide

contrast dynamic range that LED backlighting
delivers. Here, the picture quality matches and
even exceeds that of plasma, the reigning king
specs/pricing
of flat panel picture performance, and the high Screen size: 55” diagnol
degree of picture tuning flexibility that the XBR8 Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080
1:1 Mode: Yes
offers means that the set can be optimized for
just about any viewing environment. 1 S-video, 3 composite, 1 RGB PC
Off-axis viewing is still plagued by noticeable Other connections: 1 Ethernet, 6 stereo
contrast degradation, the Achilles’ heel of LCD audio inputs, 1 stereo audio PC input,
and an area where plasma provides the better 1 NTSC/ATSC/ClearQAM RF input,
result, but with this latest Bravia XBR8 series, the 1 stereo audio output, 1 USB port, 1 optical
digital output, 1 RS-232C serial port for
deleterious effects are less obvious than is the external controller, 1 DMax/service USB
norm for LCD. Overall, the performance is stellar port, 1 DM port
in all of the most important aspects, and the Dimensions (WxHxD): 58.6” x 33.8” x 14.2”
XBR8 can be recommended without hesitation. Weight: 120 lb.
TPV Warranty: 2 years parts & labor
Price: $5,500
Ratings Sony
overall picture quality (SD) (877) 865-7669
www.sony.com

features

connectivity

user interface

value

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

flat panel TVs
Toshiba 46SV670 D
efinitely a top-of-the-line offering, ports, a nice convenience for putting on a
the 46SV670 is one of a duo of new slide show of your favorite pictures or listening
Toshiba models (there’s a 55” version to MP3 audio tracks. Dolby Volume helps
Regza LCD HDTV with

in addition to the 46” model tested here) that maintain a more constant volume, substantially
features banks of white LEDs behind the LCD reducing annoyingly loud commercial
panel, in lieu of the conventional fluorescent interruptions. While the inclusion of Audyssey
LED Backlighting
backlighting method. Hundreds of LEDs allow EQ is a step toward better audio fidelity, you’ll
precise backlighting control that permits much never mistake the Toshiba’s audio for hi-fi.
deeper blacks than can be had with traditional Connection to an external audio system is
fluorescent backlighting. aided by the provision of both stereo analog
David Birch-Jones As with other LED-powered backlit LCD outputs and an optical digital output.
sets (definitely the trend in top-tier LCD flat Where the Toshiba falls short (compared to
panel HDTVs), the LEDs are controlled via some other top-line HDTV flat panels) is the
a multi-block drive system that splits the lack of an Ethernet port, which precludes on-
screen backlighting into dozens of individual demand internet video streaming, a desirable
zones. This provides the ability to boost bright feature given the wide choice of downloadable
portions of an image, while at the same time movies and TV shows from services such as
allowing much darker blacks in other portions
of the image. While Toshiba isn’t alone in
claiming ridiculously huge dynamic contrast
ratio specs, there’s no question that compared
to conventional LCD flat panels, LED local
overview
dimming does provide substantially superior Consider this HDTV if:
contrast, with deep blacks that rival the best yyou’d like a mostly fully-loaded premium
plasmas. A side benefit is decreased power LCD HDTV with the latest LED local
consumption, which can trim back your energy dimming technology. The Toshiba is also
bill a tad. priced well below that of some other LED
backlit sets.
Features Look elsewhere if:
The LED backlighting system is the principal you’re on a tight budget, as the ratio of
differentiator here, compared to most other dollars per square inch of screen area is
LCD HDTVs. The set also features 240 Hz substantially higher than with conventional
screen refresh, as you would expect with a fluorescent backlit LCD HDTVs. Also, the
top-tier LCD flat panel, which helps to sharpen lack of an Ethernet port precludes on-
up moving images and also to smooth out demand video streaming, a feature that
judder from film-originated content. some competitive models now offer.
The set features both USB and SD card

flat panel TVs
Amazon, Blockbuster, Netflix and Roxio. input with stereo audio. No Ethernet port inadvertent user mis-adjustment. The range of which means toggling through the various
though, which is a curious omission on a top- picture adjustments is quite extensive, offering inputs can be a chore if there are lots of source
Connectivity tier set like this Toshiba. a high level of fine tuning capability. components connected to the set. It does
In addition to two HD-compatible component feature backlighting though, which is a plus.
video inputs, there are four HDMI inputs, User Interface Remote Control
of which one is located on the side panel On Screen Display The remote is a virtual twin of the remote that RECOMMENDED
SETTINGS
convenience jack-pack. An RGB PC input Nothing too fancy here, as the Toshiba’s OSD came with the last Toshiba we tested, and The Toshiba provides tremendous picture
is provided, but the maximum resolution is similar to their other recent models, but it features a good layout, with legible button adjustment flexibility, which will certainly
is limited to SXGA (1280 x 1024). The side gets the job done. Of note is the inclusion of nomenclature and a large numeric keypad. The appeal to the video enthusiast who wants
panel’s jack-pack features both USB and SD their Theater Lock feature, which locks the one big drawback compared to some other TV to tweak the picture to their heart’s content.
slots, as well as a standard definition video various picture adjustment settings, preventing remotes is the lack of dedicated input buttons, While the default AutoView setting is notable
PERFORMANCE
With the picture size set At the default setting, the Toshiba Here the Toshiba really shines, as An early scene in an indoor None noted.
to Native (1:1), the movie’s puts forth a picture that is way the local dimming LED backlight- shooting range has the two
opening credits are crisp and oversaturated.Turning the color ing allows absolutely stunning lead characters moderately lit,
sharp. There’s a Dot by Dot control down a chunk (-15 seems deep blacks, clearly evident in the but the rest of the set is very
mode, but that’s to be used for to be the sweet spot) puts things movie’s opening credits, with inky dimly lit. Here the Toshiba does
(Blu-ray) the RGB PC input only (a tad to right, and the set delivers blacks that rival the very best a very good job of rendering
Righteous Kill confusing, since some other natural-looking flesh tones. plasma sets. As the movie is pre- shadow detail, with no evidence
set-makers use Dot by Dot for sented in its original widescreen of black crush.
their 1:1 pixel-for-pixel picture 2.35:1 aspect ratio, the local dim-
size mode). ming provides perfect black bars
above and below the image, with
no evidence of “halo-ing”.
Wonderfully crisp and clean, the Live HDTV shows like this one This episode’s musical act is a Camera pans over the studio None noted.
Toshiba puts forth a gloriously are ideal for gauging color quality, country-and-western singing duo, audience reveal lots of clearly
sharp picture that’s aided by the and with the set’s color control with both sporting black attire visible shadow details, and Jay’s
(Broadcast local dimming function, which pro- turned down sufficiently, the that is reproduced extremely well. house band members are also
HDTV) vides better delineation between Toshiba provides a very good easily discernable all the way to
The Jay Leno Show lighter and darker elements with balance of bright colors that pop the back of their stage set.
(NBC) no washout. Off axis, the contrast but without over-embellishment
faded a bit, but not by nearly as of skin tones.
much as is usually the case with
LCD HDTVs.

flat panel TVs
for providing both backlight level and picture (Dot by Dot for a PC input) Bottom Line: calls a “Deep Lagoon Design” internal bezel
level adjustments according to ambient room Color Temperature 0 Toshiba’s first LED backlit local dimming that frames the picture area, are also a cut
lighting conditions, the color saturation is way Film Stabilization Smooth (if you like a LCD set combines a very good feature set above.
on the high side. The Movie mode provides an judder-free image from film-originated content) with picture quality that is right up there with Where the set comes up short is the lack
overall more natural-looking picture, but the Dynamic Contrast Off other LED local dimming sets (once properly of an Ethernet port, which precludes movie
color level still needs to be turned way down. Backlight 30 adjusted, of course). There’s tremendous and TV show video streaming, a feature that
Color -15 Gamma 0 (2.11 result) picture adjustment flexibility, and sufficient numerous other HDTVs now offer. While
Tint 0 Resolution + On connectivity for a host of present and future pricey (compared to conventional LCD flat
Sharpness 0 DynaLight On source components. The remote control is an panel sets), the Toshiba is nonetheless more
Picture Mode Movie ClearScan 240 On overall good design, and the set’s cosmetics, affordable than some competitive LED backlit
HD size (pixel-to-pixel) Native Auto Brightness Sensor Off which feature a flush front and what Toshiba local dimming models. TPV
Ratings
specs/pricing
Screen size: 46” diagonal 
Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080 
features 1:1 Mode: Yes 

connectivity 1 S-video (shared with 1 of two composite

inputs), 1 RGB PC 
user interface Other connections: 4 stereo audio inputs,

1 3.5mm PC audio input, 1 stereo audio
value output, 1 optical digital audio output, 1 IR
output, 1 USB, 1 SD Card slot, 1 ATSC/
NTSC/ClearQAM RF input, 1 service port 
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Dimensions (W x H x D): 45.7” x 30.9” x
13.7” (w/stand) 
Weight: 72.8 lb. 
Warranty: 1 year, parts & labor 
Price: $2,300
TOSHIBA 
(800) 631-3811 
www.tacp.toshiba.com

flat panel TVs
A
little over six years or so ago, I area where LCD sets typically come up short
VIZIO VF551XVT
transitioned from a career in audio compared to plasma sets. Off axis viewing
and video product development and is markedly improved compared to typical
marketing to become a technology writer LCD sets, another area where plasma reigns
LCD HDTV with

and reviewer. Back then, if someone had said supreme. While there is some contrast
that in a half dozen years or so an upstart TV washout when viewed from way off to the side,
company founded around that time would it’s not nearly as much as with many other LCD
LED Backlighting
be leading the LCD flat panel sales charts HDTV flat panel sets.
this year, I would have probably asked two In concert with the LED local dimming
questions. The first would have been “What backlighting is Vizio’s 240 Hz screen refresh
kind of drugs are you smoking?” The follow-up system. They call it 240 Scenes Per Second,
David Birch-Jones would have been “Can I have some?” and point out in the marketing literature that
Clearly, Vizio has accomplished a lot their system combines a 120 Hz refresh along
in a relatively short period of time, firmly with a blackout scene between each screen
establishing themselves as the value brand frame. While not as sophisticated as true 240
leader in the hotly competitive HDTV LCD Hz refresh (which requires an interpolation
flat panel business. The recent debut of their system that can generate three new frames
first local dimming LED backlit LCD flat panel between each primary frame), the function
puts them in the company of long established
TV makers, and the set delivers surprising
performance along with perhaps the industry’s
best value in a premium-tier model. overview
Features Consider this HDTV if:
While Vizio is certainly not alone in trumpeting you’d like the latest technology, including
their VX551XVT as an LED HDTV, it’s still an local dimming LED backlighting and
LCD flat panel set, but instead of employing a really big screen for a price that is a
conventional fluorescent backlighting, behind fantastic value in terms of dollars per
the LCD imaging panel are hundreds of white square inch of viewing area.
LEDs, which are electronically sectioned off Look elsewhere if:
into blocks or zones, which allows the video a 55” set is too big for your situation, as that’s
processing circuitry to dim or brighten portions the only size in the LED backlit category
of the screen independently of others. that Vizio currently offers (that will probably
While the maximum brightness of the set change, though). The set also doesn’t feature
is the same as with conventional fluorescent- LAN connectivity, which precludes internet TV
driven sets, the key benefits here are blacker show and movie streaming.
blacks and better dark grays, a performance

flat panel TVs
works quite well, with a noticeable sharpness The Vizio’s video processing circuitry also video viewing, as well as audio playback of rules out streaming TV shows and movies
improvement on fast motion video, as well as does a very good job of handling standard MP3 files and the like. from the internet (but that feature is built into a
smoothing of film-induced judder. The Low definition deinterlacing and upconversion, The only major omission is the lack of an growing number of affordable Blu-ray players).
setting worked well, without inducing any and performs similarly well with 1080i Ethernet port, which is a standard feature on Note, however, that Vizio’s functionally
motion reduction-related artifacts. deinterlacing. A USB port allows picture and most other upper tier HDTVs these days, which similar though slightly more costly SV422XVT,
PERFORMANCE
DVD Detail Color Blacks Shadow Detail Artifacts/Noise
This live concert at the Montreux At the default setting, the color Excellent deep blacks, thanks to Close-up shots of the perform- None noted.
Jazz Fesitval features numerous saturation is a bit rich, even in the the LED backlighting and local ers on stage combine brightly lit
close-ups of the two lead guitar- preferred Movie mode.Turning it dimming system. Here the Vizio images along with darker areas at
ists/singers’ beaten and battered down somewhat makes for more delivers sumptuous deep blacks the back and sides of the stage.
(Blu-ray) Telecaster guitars.The Vizio’s excel- natural looking flesh tones. that rival the better plasma The Vizio has no problem provid-
Status Quo – lent 1080i deinterlacing presents HDTV sets. ing a clear picture that includes
Pictures the guitar strings jaggies-free, which very good delineation of scene
can be a problem with standard- elements that are very dark.
grade video processors. 1080i test
patterns confirm the Vizio’s very
good HD deinterlacing.
With the Vizio’s picture size set While the Vizo’s Movie mode is The Advanced Adaptive Luma A nighttime scene involving a None noted.
to Full (that’s their native 1:1 pixel the best of the available picture function seeks to tone down the pleasure boat crashing into a
mode), this crisply shot medical mode choices (and that’s usu- overall brightness with brightly party boat in the San Francisco
drama comes across with excel- ally the case with other HDTV lit scenes. I found it unnecessary, bay has lots of darkly lit shots
lent detail. brands), the default color satura- as with the feature turned off, of the skyline and waterfront,
tion level is still a little on the the Vizio delivers excellent deep which the Vizio does a great job
(Broadcast hot side, which can produce blacks and with the Movie mode with, exhibiting no black crush.
overly exaggerated flesh tones. and the backlighting set roughly
HDTV)
When dialed back a few notches, midway, bright images were vivid,
Trauma the actors’ skin tones are very but not excessively so.
(NBC) realistic, while other colors have
just the right amount of “pop,”
with no need for extra color
“push” via the Vizio’s Color En-
hancement feature. That feature
may help with older programs
that appear faded, however.

flat panel TVs
SV472XVT, and VF552XVT models (with with clear button nomenclature, a large and dimming, it qualifies as a top end set and
42-inch, 47-inch, and 55-inch screens,
respectively) are due out in December, 2009
and will feature Ethernet ports and provide
easily usable cursor wheel, along with colored
function buttons for Blu-ray options, among
other uses.
produces an eminently watchable picture.
Just a few years ago, $2,200 would have
been barely enough for a much smaller sized
specs/pricing
access to the firm’s extensive Vizio Internet 720p LCD HDTV. That you can now get a much Screen size: 55” diagonal
Apps (or VIA) system. RECOMMENDED SETTINGS larger 55-inch 1080p set with most of the high Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080
1:1 Mode: Yes
Color 45 end trimmings at that price is testament to
Video inputs: 5 HDMI, 2 component, 1
Connectivity Tint 0 Vizio’s leadership in the value brand segment. S-video (shared with 1 composite input), 2
A total of seven HD inputs including five HDMI Sharpness 3 While the lack of Internet TV show and movie composite, 1 RGB PC
ports, along with two component video inputs. Picture Mode Movie streaming is one key area where the Vizio fails Other connections: 3 stereo audio inputs,
There is one S-video input and two composite HD size (pixel-to-pixel) Full to deliver, in all other respects it’s an admirable 1 3.5mm PC audio input, 1 stereo audio
video inputs, but one of the composite video Noise Reduction Low performer and a very good value. (But if output, 1 optical digital audio output, 1 USB,
1 ATSC/NTSC/ClearQAM RF input
inputs is shared with the S-video input. An MPEG NR As necessary access to Internet content is important to you, Dimensions (W x H x D): 51.5” x 35.9” x
RGB PC input handles up to 1920 x 1080 Color Enhancement Off remember that Vizio’s slightly more costly 13.5” (w/stand)
pixels resolution, and there are four stereo Advanced Adaptive Luma Off XV552XVT should be coming along soon, Weight: 90.3 lb.
audio inputs (one of which is a 3.5mm jack Smart Dimming Try Off first, get used the which promises to support the firm’s extensive Warranty: 1 year, parts & labor
that’s paired with the RGB PC input). For picture for a while, and then try it On Vizio Internet Apps system—Ed.). TPV Price: $2,200
connection to an external audio system, which Color Temperature Normal
VIZIO
we always recommend, there are stereo analog Smooth Motion Low Ratings (888) 849-4623
outputs and an optical digital audio output. Film Mode Auto www.vizio.com

User Interface Bottom Line: overall picture quality (HD)
On Screen Display At 55” and a suggested list of $2,200, the Vizio
Featuring Vizio’s trademark orange text color, is the champion value leader in the premium features
the OSD is clear and well laid out, occupying the HDTV LCD flat panel tier. While it technically
left side of the screen. The various adjustments isn’t a true 240 Hz set (due to the 120 Hz connectivity

feature slider bars as well as numeric readouts, black frame insertion as opposed to true 240
and there’s a full suite of white balance and color Hz interpolation), the motion sharpening and user interface

management system controls for calibration. The film smoothing functions work quite well.
value
backlight level control has a wide variance range It also does a very good job of SD and HD
with numerous steps, so it’s easy to dial in just deinterlacing, on par with the better performing
the right amount. sets out there. 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
It also isn’t an LED TV either (but then, other
Remote Control set makers that provide LED edgelighting or
With burnished metal accents, the Vizio’s LED backlighting with their LCD flat panels
backlit remote control is a model of good claim that their sets are LED TVs), but as the
design that feels comfortable in the hand, Vizio combines LED backlighting with local

flat panel TVs
VIZIO VO42LF N
ow at No. 2 in terms of flat panel sales Connectivity
(and beating out industry stalwart Above average digital connectivity, with six HD
LCD HDTV
Sony for that slot), relative newcomer inputs (four HDMI and two component), the
VIZIO’s combination of features, value and Vizio is better equipped than some other LCD
smart engineering obviously has captured the sets that cost substantially more. Two of the
attention of many HDTV consumers. HDMI inputs and one of the component inputs
The Vizio VO42LF is a 1080p, 42-inch LCD are on a side-accessible jack panel, along with
David Birch-Jones HDTV priced well under a grand, and while the a composite A/V input. The side jack panel is
set’s out-of-the-box settings produce a picture recessed enough that even with permanent
that fails to impress (as is almost always the cable connections to those ports, cables
case with just about all brands), adjusting to shouldn’t be too apparent, keeping the clean
our recommended picture settings will have
you looking at a pretty good picture in no time
at all. And from a connectivity standpoint the
VO42LF beats out some sets that cost many
times its price.
overview
Consider this HDTV if:
Features you’re looking for a good performer with
A reasonable (but not terribly extensive) com- picture mode setting options that provide
plement of picture and sound adjustments will a quite accurate overall picture quality. The
let users dial in a good-looking picture. Extra VIZIO also has a wide range of backlighting
frills, such as a picture/video/MP3 port con- adjustability. At the brightest setting, it
nection, aren’t found with this model (no big can overcome even the harshest daylight
loss, I say). One item that might be of concern ambient conditions, a strength of LCD sets
is that there are only two picture size setting in general. At lower settings, it still provides
choices: the Wide mode is the pixel-for-pixel a usefully bright picture, and you get better
mode, while Zoom mode is designed to blow blacks and dark grays in the process.
up a 2.35:1 widescreen movie to fill the screen Look elsewhere if:
vertically (but will lop off a substantial chunk you want a 120Hz refresh rate—a feature
of left and right side picture information). The his model doesn’t have. Our experience
set’s backlighting is quite strong, with a wide has been that the real-world differences
range of adjustment, which will aid in getting between 60Hz and 120Hz sets are often
sufficient brightness in just about any ambient subtle at best, despite what the results of
lighting condition. side-by-side 60Hz vs. 120Hz demos with
slowly panned static images might suggest.

flat panel TVs
look of the set, well, clean. There’s also a PC disc player.

RGB input with full HD compatibility, and both
optical digital audio and analog stereo outputs Remote Control
are a plus for connecting the set to an external Clear white labels on soft black rubber buttons
audio system, which we always recommend. is a plus, and there are semi-direct source
selectors per input type (HDMI, Component,
USER INTERFACE A/V, plus the set’s internal tuner). There is
On Screen Display backlighting, but only for the cursor keypad,
A combination of light blue and dark blue but any backlighting is better than none. The
graphic and text elements, along with a dash remote only operates the Vizio however; there’s
of orange (Vizio’s corporate color) makes the no provision for control of cable or satellite
OSD easy to decipher, with three sub-menu boxes, etc.
choices (Picture, Sound, Setup). The slider bar
adjustment indicators feature numerical read- RECOMMENDED
SETTINGS
outs as well (always a good thing), and adjust- Color 35
ment controls don’t “run and hide” after a few Tint 0
seconds as is often the case, making tuning Sharpness 3
easier when using test patterns from a pokey Picture Mode Movie
PERFORMANCE
The disc’s menu features crisp This movie’s color is definitely A great (if totally unrealistic) cop The final chaotic shootout None noted.
elements that highlight the set’s turned up to 11, but in the Movie car chase scene has black and scenes have ninja-like gangsters
1080p native pixel-for-pixel mode mode with the Color turned white police cruisers chasing the hiding in a barn’s rafters. With
(Blu-ray)
(curiously named Wide). down, skin tones are realistic and two stoners in another cop car, moderate backlighting, the VIZ-
Pineapple
not cartoonish. and the VIZIO does a good job IO does a good job of revealing
Express showing deep blacks (but the subtle dark details.
backlighting must be turned way
down for best results).
Extreme close-ups of obsidian Some of those same close-ups More close-ups of obsidian On another expedition with None noted.
(Broadcast HDTV) (jet-black volcanic glass) samples reveal rainbow-like details in the samples show rich black details. underwater diving (always a
that the host and her guest are dark glass under bright sunlight. tough test), the VIZIO does
Treasure Hunter:
prospecting for are crisp and The default color setting is a good job at showing murky
Kirsten Gum detailed. simply way too high, and turning depths, and without banding or
(Travel Channel) it down makes a tremendous gradation artifacts.
improvement.

flat panel TVs
HD size (pixel-to-pixel) Wide

Color Temperature
Backlight
Normal
10-20 should be fine specs/pricing
Bottom Line: Screen size: 42” diagonal
When building to a meet a highly competitive Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080
1:1 Mode: Yes
price point, too often the baby gets thrown out
Video inputs: 4 HDMI, 2 component, 1
with the bathwater. Here VIZIO has made mostly S-video, 1 composite (or 2 composite if S-
sensible engineering decisions, eschewing frilly video isn’t used), 1 RGB PC, 1 ATSC/NTSC/
features, but keeping the basics intact. The ClearQAM RF
generous input complement will appeal to those Other connections: 3 stereo audio inputs,
with an extensive range of source components, 1 PC audio input, 1 optical digital output,
1 stereo audio output, 1 USB port
including older analog legacy sources such as a (for service only)
camcorder or VCR, and both digital and analog Dimensions (W x H x D): 40.4” x 27.6” x
audio outputs are yet another plus. 9.6” (w/stand)
At its highest backlight setting, the VIZIO Weight: 44.6 lb.
is ridiculously bright, but the backlighting Warranty: 1 year parts & labor
Price: $830
adjustment range is quite broad, and when dialed
way down, the set’s blacks and dark gray qualities vizio
improve tremendously. Same goes for the color (877) 698-4946
control; the midrange default is way over the top, www.vizio.com
but it too can be dialed down for just the right
amount of color intensity. Overall, the VIZIO is a
good performer at a competitive (for now) price. Ratings
TPV


features

connectivity

user interface

value

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

PROJECTORS:
Choosing A Projector
David Birch-Jones
F
or movie buffs, nothing beats the DLP to their members. The panels themselves coordination of the color wheel segment
experience of watching a really big Of the three, DLP-based models are the are sourced from Epson, but other elements positioning along with the lamp’s light output.
screen, and for them, a suitably large more popular, in terms of number of models including video processing, optics, the This provides for more precise color and light
front projection system is the only way to go. available from various manufacturers. lighting engine and the like are up to each output control, which translates to purer colors
For many years, the price of a quality front In the DLP camp, single chip variants manufacturer to define for their own models. and improved overall dynamic range (the
projector equated to that of a typical family dominate, especially at the lower price points. LCD-based HD front projectors employ three contrast between light and dark mages).
sedan, restricting the appeal of such systems Each DLP chip contains millions of tiny mirrors, imaging panels, one each for the three primary Typically, projector lamps feature two light
only to the well heeled. arrayed on microscopic stilts that allow each colors. output settings, one that’s about 20% dimmer
With the advent of affordable HD front mirror to be angled in one direction or another. than the other. The dimmer setting allows for
projectors, big screen HDTV viewing at home When angled away from the projector’s optics, LCoS extended lamp life, sometimes double that
is available to just about everyone, and is light is discarded, and when angled toward LCoS is a third front projection imaging of the standard light output setting, which in
something you should consider if you want the the optics, light is transmitted to the screen. system, which features LCD-based shutters, most cases is the preferred setting anyway,
ultimate HDTV experience. Coupled with a spinning color wheel that but with a reflective lighting arrangement that as lowering the lamp output provides blacker
features segments of various color filters, has the light from the projector’s lamp hitting blacks. Even at the lower setting, there’s plenty
TECHNOLOGIES TO CONSIDER single chip DLP sets can deliver a full color the imaging panels from one side, passing of light to provide a suitably bright image when
There are three imaging methods employed range. thru the imaging elements, and exiting at an the scene calls for it.
in today’s HD home theater front projectors— In top end DLP projectors, there are off angle towards the other side. There are
Texas Instruments’ DLP system (which is three imaging chips, one each for the three two main proponents of LCoS: Sony calls their Coming Soon: LED-powered Projectors
offered in both single-chip and three-chip primary colors (red, green, and blue). That system SXRD, while JVC calls theirs D-ILA. New on the scene is the availability of LED-
configurations), LCD (which, in HD home configuration obviates the need for a spinning powered front projectors. While few in number
theater-type projectors, is virtually always color wheel, and allows for greater color Projector Lamps and Light Output (just a handful at the moment), these dispense
provided in a three-panel configuration), and definition as well as improved light output. DLP, LCD and LCoS projectors are typically with the bulb lamp in favor of a trio of high
LCoS, which stands for Liquid Crystal on equipped with high-pressure lamps, which are output LEDs. That technology, which is
Silicon, a variant of LCD that combines LCD’s LCD driven by pulse width modulated alternating emissive, allows for even blacker blacks than
transmissive imaging with along with reflective With LCD, a number of projector makers have current. A few models feature an integrated can be had with conventional bulb-based
imaging. formed the 3LCD Consortium to combine lighting and color wheel control system systems, as the LEDs can be individually
engineering and financial resources to produce (Philips’ VIDI and Osram’s Unishape are dimmed or brightened as necessary, and their
HD LCD imaging panels that are available two such schemes) that feature very tight spectral response more closely mimics that of

PROJECTORS: What You Need To Know Before Choosing A Projector
Widescreen Anamorphic Capabilities Hz refresh for movie-based content (those coming from the screen should go directly
The latest trend in front projection setups rates are four or five times that of a movie’s 24 to, and only to, the prime viewing area). Any
is the addition of widescreen anamorphic frames per second native frame rate). Some equipment such as source components, video
capability, which allows the use of also offer 120 Hz refresh of video-originated processors, A/V amps or receivers should
theater-type widescreens with an aspect content, which (as with LCD flat panel displays) be placed well outside the prime viewing
ratio that matches that of blockbuster seeks to sharpen up fast motion scenes, such angle. Light from the screen that reaches any
movies that are presented in 2.40:1 as sports or scrolling text. other area of the theater should be absorbed
aspect ratio. Most front projectors (and As with any other display, a projector’s outright, or at the very least, attenuated to a
a growing number of external video remote control is a critical component. Many, significant degree, lest it be reflected back
processors and even some top-end but not all, come with backlighting. The better to the screen, which will substantially reduce
AVRs and AVPs) provide a special remotes offer direct source selection buttons, contrast.
anamorphic “vertical stretch” mode, as well as picture size mode buttons—an If there is to be any ambient lighting at all, it
that fills the screen, pushing the black important consideration for anamorphic- should be directed away from the front of the
bars that accompany a widescreen movie equipped setups. room, and be kept to the bare minimum, to
above and below the image out of sight. maximize viewable screen contrast.
old-style three gun CRT-based front projectors, Couple that with an external anamorphic ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
along with delivering additional benefits in lens that widens the image in the same ratio as How Dark is Dark Enough? Screen Lighting Levels: Less Can Be More
terms of lifespan (tens of thousands of hours) the vertical stretch (and an appropriately sized Ideally, an optimum front projection home In commercial movie theaters, the SMPTE
and reduced power consumption as well as screen), and viewers at home can enjoy their theater environment will resemble a dungeon— standard for screen light levels is 16 foot-
better “green” eco-friendliness (no mercury or favorite Hollywood blockbusters in the film’s at least in the sense that it will be completely Lamberts at screen center and 12 foot-
other nasty volatile organic compounds). original aspect ratio, with no black bars. A side and utterly dark when the lights (and the Lamberts at the screen edges and corners.
benefit to the anamorphic widescreen option projector) are turned off. With the room lighting That spec is measured with the projector on,
IMPORTANT FEATURES is that all of the projector’s imaging pixels and the projector both off, if you can hold your but with no film in the gate. In a dedicated
HDMI are used, which results in a brighter picture, hand in front of your face and still see it, then front projection home theater with good light
The advent of HDMI, which combines a compared to the standard letterbox view. the room isn’t properly optimized in terms control, 10 foot-Lamberts is sufficient to
distribution pathway for both digital video Panamorph is the best-known purveyor of of light control. The walls, floor, ceiling and provide a high contrast image that mimics that
and digital audio signals, is a boon for front external anamorphic lenses (available from seating area should be clad in the darkest of of your neighborhood movie house. More than
projection setups, especially when used them, or through their many partnerships with colors, with no shiny surfaces (that includes that is OK, but raising the screen brightness
in systems based on HDMI-equipped A/V leading front projector makers). Other suppliers shiny leather seating—suede or a fabric weave also similarly raises the black level, and it is
receivers or processors, because such include Marantz, Isco and Schnieder, to name would be better choices). the ratio of white to black that determines
systems allow a single HDMI cable run to the just three). perceived contrast. Here is where less
projector. While many home theater projectors Light Control: Practical Tips definitely equates to more.
provide more than one HDMI input, having Higher Refresh Rates While that’s a severe example, in practice a
a single HDMI run to the projector from an A number of projectors, primarily LCD-based, light-controlled environment is relatively easy
HDMI-equipped AVR or AVP saves big on are now offering higher refresh rates that seek to achieve. Avoid light surface colors, reflective
cabling and installation costs. to minimize judder and smearing artifacts. surfaces above and to the side of the screen,
Many models now offer 96 Hz or even 120 and especially along the back wall (any light

New Projectors On The Horizon
Epson: Leading LCD front projector maker Epson debuted four new
1080p models at the CEDIA Expo 2009, two each in pairs destined for
different distribution channels, with all models featuring 120 Hz refresh. The
Pro Cinema models are designed to appeal to the premium home theater
enthusiast crowd, and offer improved contrast compared to previous
models. The PC9100 and PC9500UB both feature Epson’s own E-TORL
lamp, which provides more light output with less energy consumption than
typical projector lamps, and both come with three year warranties as well
as ISF certification. The 9500UB model is also THX certified, and features
Mode 1 vertical stretch for widescreen anamorphic compatibility.
JVC recently introduced six 1080p projectors based on their LCoS

technology (called D-ILA), three destined for the CEDIA/custom-
installation/enthusiast channel, and three siblings targeted for wider
distribution. All are equipped with 120 Hz refresh, with the top models
featuring THX certification and anamorphic widescreen compatibility.
Contrast ratios are improved compared to earlier offerings, and the
top of the line DLA-RS35 comes with a 70,000:1 specification that’s
achievable without the need for an automatic iris. All models feature all-
glass lenses as well as HQV Reon video signal processing.
Mitsubishi’s 1080p HD3800 is a single chip DLP-powered model

and is priced at an appealing $1,395, a new low price point for them.
The model features a two year parts and labor warranty, which is very
generous for a projector at this price point, and includes high end features
such as anamorphic widescreen capability, with both Mode 1 (vertical
stretch) and Mode 2 (horizontal squeeze) that allow both movable and
fixed external anamorphic lens setups. When used with its lower-output
lamp mode setting the HD3800 claims an estimated 5,000-hour lamp life,
which should dramatically lower long-term costs of ownership.
Optoma: the three newest models from Optoma are, in ascending

order of price, the HD20 (a 1080p DLP projector priced under a grand!),
the HD8200, and the HD8600. Rather than summarize the feature of
these projectors here, let us simply point out that all three models are
covered by in-depth reviews presented in this Guide.

New Projectors On The Horizon
Panasonic brings to the party their PT-AE4000, a freshened update

of the popular PT-AE3000 predecessor; the PT-AE4000U retains the
firm’s innovative zoom lens memory system, which allows widescreen
(“scope”) viewing without the need for a costly outboard anamorphic
lens system. For normal viewing, the zoom is set to match the screen’s
16:9 viewing area. For widescreen 2.40:1 viewing on a suitably-sized
screen, the projector’s automatic aspect ratio detection function instantly
expands the picture area to match the widescreen, eliminating black
bars. While sacrificing some resolution in the process, the system
nonetheless allows regular 16:9 (1.78) and expanded 2.40:1 widescreen
presentations without the additional cost and complexity of an external
anamorphic widescreen lens setup. Priced at a very reasonable $2,499,
the PT-AE4000 is equipped with a 3-panel 1080p LCD imaging engine,
and is rated at a hefty 1,600 lumens (in the bright lamp mode).
Planar’s Runco division has a slew of new models designed for

premium custom installation, including their first LED-powered model,
the Q-750, priced at $15,000. They also offer three new affordable
models in their LightStyle line, all of which are single chip DLP-powered
(note that the term “affordable” in Runco parlance means less than the
cost of a family sedan or sports car). The three new LightStyle models
are based on a proven single-chip 1080p DLP design, and feature
Runco’s Vivx video processing engine.
Sony has two new 1080p front projectors, including the VPL-HW15
priced at a cool $3,000, based on their LCoS technology (they call it
SXRD). Rated at 1,000 lumens (which is more than bright enough for
even large home theater screens), the VPL-HW15 includes features more
commonly found on top-end models such as anamorphic widescreen
capability. The warranty is also a notch above the usual, with two years
parts and labor coverage. For deluxe systems, the VPL-VW85 features
motorized lens shift along with increased contrast, and carries a retail
price tag of $8,000.

projectors
go to: flat panel TVs | projection screens
DreamVision F
rom DreamVision of Paris, France, blacks. While the Dream’E has useful (but me-
comes the Dream’E 3-panel 1080p chanical, not motorized) horizontal and vertical
projector, featuring LCoS (liquid lens shift, the thumbwheel controls are them-
Dream’E LCoS
crystal on silicon) imaging, which blends selves tucked away in a small opening on the
both transmissive (LCD-like) and reflective chassis bottom, making adjustment difficult
(DLP-like) technologies. Distinctively styled, for tabletop or shelf mounting scenarios. The
Projector
the gently swoopy enclosure is available Dream’E is equipped with the HQV Reon video
in either black or white gloss plastic, and processor, a proven performer that provides
DreamVision provides a custom color option excellent deinterlacing capabilities, both with
(at extra cost, though). SD and 1080i HD sources.
A key benefit to the Dream’E is the avail-
David Birch-Jones ability of an optional anamorphic lens setup,
which includes an OEM’d Panamorph lens,
a customized lens hood which spiffs things
up nicely, and a custom mounting plate. This
solution will appeal to custom installers and
do-it-yourself types looking to put together a
overview
true, cinema-grade widescreen front projec- Consider this Projector if:
tion setup. you’d like to get the full widescreen
cinema experience. DreamVision’s optional
Features Panamorph-based anamorphic lens system
DreamVision touts the Dream’E’s all-glass lens is custom-tailored for good looks and
optics along with the availability of a turn-key easy installation. At the highest lamp and
anamorphic lens setup and has equipped the aperture settings this projector puts out
unit with an efficient LCoS imaging engine that sufficient light to handle big screen sizes,
provides both high contrast and high output. while the low lamp mode and aperture
Indeed, at the highest lamp and aperture set- adjustability allow dialing in just the right
tings, the projector puts out a lot of light, mak- amount of light for smaller screens.
ing it suitable for screens in the 140-inch range Look elsewhere if:
(16:9 diagonal, matte white assumed). The you’re seeking a projector that has a
lower lamp mode still puts out enough light precise color palette that matches the
that standard 100-inch screens can get more HD video standard, as the Dream’E color
than enough light for a bright picture, with the gamut adds extra color emphasis that can’t
benefit of extended lamp life thrown in. be tamed. Some very odd quirks with the
A multi-step aperture adds further light con- picture adjustments also indicate that this
trol, allowing the user to dial down brightness current Dream’E version isn’t fully cooked.
to get the best overall contrast and deepest

projectors
Connectivity However, the Contrast control (a critical first

With 2 HDMI inputs, and single component, adjustment) behaves badly, pushing the
S-video and composite inputs, the connectivity black level way out of line (which shouldn’t
of the Dream’E is about average. An RGB input happen at all). Curiously, in the next sub-menu,
is provided for a PC, but that input only allows White Level and Black Level adjustments are
up to SXGA resolution, a downer for hard-core provided, which serve to replace/duplicate the
PC gamers who want to get the full widescreen Contrast and Brightness controls.
HD gaming experience. Two 12V trigger outputs To properly adjust the Dream’E, I had to
are handy for external motorized controllers. leave the Brightness and Contrast at their
The connection ports run down one side of the middle (default positions) and use the White
cabinet though, and not on the back panel as is and Black level adjustments instead. Here
usually the case with front projectors. again, the Dream’E misbehaves though, as
turning a control “up” actually causes the
USER INTERFACE reverse of the intended effect (and vice-versa).
On Screen Display Very odd behavior indeed.
Colorful and legible, the OSD features While the product literature touts Mosquito,
adjustments that stay on screen long enough Block, and Temporal noise reduction modes
to be useful when setting up and tuning. (which can be useful with highly compressed
PERFORMANCE
Crisp and clear, the Dream’E That extra dab of color intensity Good deep blacks are a hall- A scene in a darkened video None noted.
features tight convergence so noted earlier gives this animated mark of LCoS imaging technol- control room has easily discern-
individual pixel elements are movie lots of color pop, but not ogy and here the film displays able studio elements along the
(Blu-Ray) well-defined with minimal color excessively so. very good deep blacks. Use the darkened back wall and ceiling.
Bolt fringing. economy lamp mode if you can,
to further improve deep blacks
(and extend the lamp life at the
same time).
As with most episodic television, The emphasized color palette Here again, LCoS technology In a car garage, the two actors None noted.
this new series is shot on film and tends to give skin tones some helps to provide very good are only partially lit, and the
(HDTV) then converted to HD. NBC/Uni- extra “blush,” something that deep blacks, and the Dream’E darker background elements
Kings versal didn’t skimp on production can’t be tamed by turning the low lamp mode and variable are easily visible.
(NBC) values, as the Dream’E puts out a color control down (a malady aperture let me dial down the
solid, sharp as a tack image. by no means unique to the overall brightness to get even
Dream’E). better blacks.

projectors
and visibly noisy sources), they’re not user- unified system remote). have a dedicated light-controlled room. The
adjustable (they’re hidden away behind a
passcode-protected installer mode), for
absolutely no good reason that I can imagine.
RECOMMENDED SETTINGS
Color 45
range of brightness that the Dream’E provides
via the two lamp settings and multiple
aperture opening choices means that the
specs/pricing
Plus, the literature also incorrectly states Tint 50 projector can be tweaked just right for a wide Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080
1:1 Mode: Yes
that these modes work on both SD and HD Sharpness 50 variety of screen sizes and types and desired
sources, but that’s not the case with the HD size (pixel-to-pixel) light output. 1 S-video, 1 composite, 1 RGB PC (up to
current generation Reon chip, as these modes Overscan Off The availability of an optional turn-key SXGA)
only work at the SD (and not the HD) level. Color Temperature Medium anamorphic lens setup is a major plus and will Other connections: 2 12V trigger outputs,
Gamma 4 certainly appeal to movie buffs who want to 1 RS-232C serial port for external control
Remote Control see films in their original aspect ratio without Dimensions (WxHxD): 20.5” x 7.6” x 20.7”
Weight: 37.5 lb.
Featuring soft red backlighting, the remote Bottom Line: annoying black bars. That the anamorphic Warranty: 1 year parts & labor (6
features dedicated source selector buttons, as Once you get past the quirkiness of the lens, customized mounting plate and custom months/500 hours on the bulb)
well as six picture modes (three preset, three picture adjustments noted earlier, the Dream’E hood trio together add only $4,300 to the price Price: $5,295 (projector only), $9,595 with
user-defined), which should be enough for puts out a satisfyingly bright picture which (keeping the total under $10K) is another plus. anamorphic system
most. Discrete power on and off buttons are will appeal to users who want to have a front But DreamVision will have to fix a few flaws if
Audio Plus Services
a big plus for external system control (or via a projection home theater system but don’t they want to really satisfy the true purist. TPV
(North American distributor)
(800) 663-9352
www.audioplusservices.com
Ratings


features

connectivity

user interface

value

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

projectors
Features
JVC DLA-HD350
input could save the day if you want to use the
Motorized everything on the JVC, including fo- projector as a big-screen PC monitor.
cus and zoom, along with vertical and horizon- Do take note that the input and power con-
LCOS Projector
tal lens shift, which allows quick and accurate nections are along one side of the JVC’s slen-
setup by letting you stand close to the screen der cabinet, instead of being around back as is
to dial in the sharpest possible picture. A test almost always the case with other projectors.
pattern is automatically called up during the Side-mounted connections might be more
focus/alignment process, which further aids convenient for some installations, but might
David Birch-Jones setup. There’s even a motorized sliding lens also expose wiring that would otherwise be
cover to help keep dust and dirt off the lens less visible with back panel connections.
Playb
Recom ack when the JVC is powered down.
mended There are picture adjustment options galore, USER INTERFACE
2009 with numerous picture-setting memories and On Screen Display
three user-defined memories, so tuning the Well-designed and logically laid out, the OSD
JVC for daytime and evening modes is easy. features a raft of adjustments, including the
In addition to the usual array of aspect ratio ability to adjust on-screen timing; it also pro-
choices, this latest JVC now features Vertical
Stretch (prior models didn’t), which is a special
1.33 vertical stretching mode that allows the
use of an external anamorphic lens (such
as the Panamorph) for true 2.40:1 “scope”
overview
widescreen reproduction (you’ll need a suitably Consider this Projector if:
wide 2.40:1 aspect ratio screen, of course). you’re looking for a high value, high
With two lamp modes and three iris choices, performance 1080p projector with LCOS/D-
the JVC can be tweaked for brighter daytime ILA technology that’s loaded with step-up
viewing and for optimum nighttime viewing features. Given the dramatic price drop,
C
ount JVC as a leading proponent of with respect to deep black and dark gray with the lower lamp mode, which will help to this latest JVC projector is, at $4,500, an
Liquid Crystal On Silicon technology, performance. significantly extend the lamp life. exceptional value compared to earlier
which the company has dubbed D-ILA Introduced at last September’s CEDIA show offerings.
(for Direct drive Imaging Light Amplifier) as in Denver, the DLA-HD350 was slated to carry Connectivity Look elsewhere if:
used in the firm’s top-tier projectors, such as an SRP of $6,000—which seemed entirely ap- With two HDMI, one component, one S-video you’d like to be able to see a projected
the DLA-HD350 reviewed here. This three- propriate and competitive. In the three months and one composite input, the JVC has enough image with the most accurate HDTV color
panel technology has, at its core, LCD-like since the trade show introduction and actual inputs to be sufficient for most users. The gamut (palette) possible, as this JVC’s
panels, but instead of being transmissive, the product shipments, the MSRP dropped by 25 lack of a dedicated RGB PC input might be a extended color gamut tends to over-
D-ILA imaging system features a combination percent, making this one of the most afford- hindrance for some, however, but as more and embellish colors. For some (or perhaps
of transmissive and reflective technologies able 1080p LCOS-based projectors yet. more desktop and laptop computers feature many), this might be desirable, though.
to provide better light control, especially digital video outputs, the JVC’s second HDMI

projectors
vides single pixel graphics to check for exact preferred discrete input buttons as opposed
focus, as well as color bars to aid in color and to the single toggling source button provided
tint adjustment. here, but that’s my only gripe with the JVC’s
remote. In all other respects, it’s one of the
Remote Control better-designed projector remote’s I’ve seen.
Slim, slender and black, the JVC’s remote is
well-designed and features amber backlighting, RECOMMENDED SETTINGS
the best choice for legibility in a darkened Color: -3
theater room. Discrete power on and off Tint: 0
buttons are helpful for setting up macros with Sharpness: 0
a system remote or external controller, and Picture Mode: Natural
most of the important adjustments and options Color Temperature: 6500Ў
feature dedicated buttons, including the three HD size (1:1 pixel-to-pixel): 16:9
user-defined picture memories. I would have Gamma: Custom 1 (2.2)
PERFORMANCE
Even before the movie began, Turned up to 11. Unfortunately, Here’s where JVC’s D-ILA An evening scene in Tony Stark’s None noted.
I could see the graphics in the the JVC comes with an expanded LCOS technology shines, with office shows easily visible
disc’s menu featured some color gamut which over-empha- rich deep blacks clearly evident. shadow details in the nighttime
single pixel lines, which the JVC sizes colors, and the set doesn’t Two lamp settings and three iris view through the windows, with
showed sharply and cleanly, with provide a second, more accurate settings let me get just the right no black crush to impair shadow
(Blu-Ray)
no color fringing, even toward HDTV gamut option, as is usually combination of overall picture detail.
Iron Man the screen edges. the case with other projectors. brightness and great deep blacks.
Throughout the movie, the
various actors’ skin tones feature
over-embellishment, providing
orange-y fake-tanning salon tones.
On-screen captioning showing Still turned up to 11. Same A two-second fade-to-black be- A scene showing Malawi work- None noted.
(Broadcast an interview translation is pixel- problem with over-emphasized tween the program and a promo ers unloading bags of corn off
perfect, sharp and clear. colors, which is most notice- spot shows just how great the the back of a truck reveals dark
HDTV)
able with skin tones. Turning the JVC is at keeping the blacks as details all the way back to the
HDNET World
color down helps tame things a black as possible—it’s a stellar truck body’s inside back wall—
Report bit, however. performer in this critical area. an excellent result without the
(HDNET) black crush that some other
projectors exhibit.

projectors
Bottom Line: Ratings

JVC has come up with an excellent projector
that achieves the elusive combination of high
performance and high value. Highlights include overall picture quality (HD)
motorized optics, extensive picture-adjustment
options, a vertical stretch mode for anamorphic features
lens compatibility, plus a Standard (low) lamp
mode that extends lamp life. What’s more, connectivity

the JVC is smaller than earlier models and
whisper quiet. The only drawback is an over-
user interface

emphasized color gamut with no secondary value
HDTV standard gamut choice. But once you
dial back the color a few notches you’ll be able
to savor the JVC’s superb deep blacks and rich 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
shadow details. TPV
specs/pricing
Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080
1:1 Mode: Yes
Video inputs: 2 HDMI, 1 component/RGB,
1 S-video, 1 composite
Other connections: RS-232C serial port
Dimensions (WxHxD): 14.4” x 6.6” x 18.8”
Weight: 24.3 lb.
Warranty: 2 years parts & labor (90 days
lamp)
Price: $4,500
JVC
(800) 252-5722
tv.jvc.com

projectors
Knoll Systems
room with large amounts of glass on a sunny As well, the projector features very good video
day. Knoll’s approach applies DSP processing signal processing, including chips from Pixel-
to separate the infrared codes from the “fog”, works (a popular choice for projectors) as well
HDP1200 DLP
which ensures IR signal integrity and reliable as the well-regarded HQV Reon Vx chip, which
operation, even with outdoor IR setups that provides top notch standard and high definition
would be rendered useless with conventional deinterlacing as well as noise reduction and
Projector
analog IR repeaters. detail enhancement, among other functions.
The HDP1200 projector sent to us is one of For widescreen 2.35:1 enthusiasts who
two “twins”, the other being their HDP1100. will have the projector mated to an external
Cosmetically and functionally identical, the anamorphic lens (such as the Panamorph)
principal differences involve lens throw distanc- and a suitably wide screen, the Knoll offers
David Birch-Jones es—the HDP1200 is the longer throw version— both types of anamorphic signal processing.
and pricing (the HDP1200 sells for $6798.95 The first, commonly referred to as Mode 1,
while the HDP1100 sells for $800.00 less). provides vertical stretch, and would be used
with a movable external anamorphic lens. The
Features second mode provides horizontal squeeze,
Equipped with a 200W Osram high pressure and would be used when the external lens is
bulb, the Knoll is also equipped with Osram’s permanently mounted in front of the projector’s
companion Unishape pulse width modulation lens. Most projectors these days provide the
power control system, which ties the lamp’s vertical stretch mode only.
specific output at any given millisecond to the
exact position of the DLP system’s spinning six
segment RGBCYM color wheel. This system is
said to provide greater visual dynamic range,
better color control, increased efficiency along
overview
with the ability to provide specific picture Consider this Projector if:
modes suited for home theater as well as data you’d like a competent single chip DLP
(presentation) projection. Knoll makes a point front projector that includes the latest lamp
of noting that this system (which is essentially modulation technology along with a solid
comparable to the Philips Vidi system) is most projector design with very good optics and
often found only on high end (>$20K and up) excellent video signal processing.
A
relative newcomer to the front signal handling, and for introducing a line of projectors. Look elsewhere if:
projection playground, Knoll Systems, IR repeater systems that feature DSP signal The optics are a cut above the norm, featur- you don’t need a long throw lens option,
headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, processing. Conventional analog IR repeaters ing an all-glass Nikon-sourced lens system as Knoll’s HDP1100 is virtually identical
is better known within the custom installation just boost the signal and send it along, which (many entry and midrange level projectors (except for the shorter throw), and carries a
trade for providing innovative solutions in can often cause mis-operation if the IR sensor feature hybrid lens designs with both glass and price tag that’s hundreds of dollars less.
areas such as multi-room audio distribution, is deluged with sunlight (as it might be in a plastic lenses making up the optical system).

projectors
For the best out-of-the-box experience, One input is a standard definition composite/ graphics are clear enough, but the nomencla- white balance adjustment (used during cali-
each projector is calibrated at the factory for S-video choice, meaning it’s one or the other. ture is sometimes confusing. A case in point bration) appear in a box directly positioned at
the proper D65 (6500° Kelvin) neutral white Two 12V trigger outputs allow for screen is the 1:1 pixel-for-pixel picture mode—some- screen center—in complete conflict with estab-
color temperature, and while a post-installa- control and external anamorphic lens control, thing competitors typically refer to as Native or lished calibration procedures, as that’s where
tion calibration is always recommended for a and there’s also an IR repeater output. An RS- Dot-by-Dot mode, but that Knoll calls out as the color analyzer ideally should be aimed.
premium front projection setup, the projec- 232C port permits external system control, and the Anamorphic mode. Some messages (such
tor’s initial settings put it indeed very close to there’s a USB port for service use only. as the power off confirmation and the picture Remote Control
where it should be. modes) appear at the extreme bottom center The palm-sized remote gets points for
USER INTERFACE of the screen (and they’re fairly small to boot), backlighting, but that’s about all, as the input
Connectivity On Screen Display which can be a problem if the picture is slightly buttons are simply labeled numerically, and
There are four HD-compatible inputs, including Here’s where the Knoll comes up short com- optically overscanned (often done by installers the user has to toggle between the two HDMI
two HDMI, one component, and an RGB PC pared to competitive offerings, as the OSD to eliminate picture edge noise with some SD inputs with one of the buttons. There is a
input that accepts up to 1920 x 1080 signals. can best be described as clunky. The text and sources). The adjustment slider bars for the button for aspect ratio control which is handy,
PERFORMANCE
Live HD concert videos like this At the factory settings, the color is Knoll claims a 4400:1 native Numerous shots of the various None noted.
one are just the ticket for evaluat- just about where it should be, with contrast ratio, and while that performers from up close with
ing picture quality, and the Knoll lots of pop on strongly saturated spec is hard to verify in practice bright stage lighting behind them
delivers a sharp, crisp picture.The hues, but without over-embellish- as there’s no industry measure- could be a problem, but not here.
(Blu-ray)
HQV Reon chip ensures that jag- ment.The colorful stage lighting ment standard, the deep blacks Even when bathed in light from
Toto – Falling In
gies are banished, and on various jumps off the screen, and an ex- seen here are indeed very good, behind, it’s easy to see their faces
Between Live close-ups of guitar strings and amination of the set’s colorimetry and are especially evident during and their instruments.
frets, that was indeed the case. with test patterns confirms that the opening numbers as lead
the Knoll is above average in terms singer Bobby Kimball’s black at-
of color accuracy. tire is suitably dark and crisp.
At an indoor arena, vari- Advertiser graphics are embla- On either side of the audience, Past the partitioning scrim None noted.
ous dudes are performing on zoned everywhere, adding lots large sheets of black scrim hang sheets, it’s easy to see snip-
skateboards. The skid marks on of color vividness to the event. from the rafters and serve to pets of the empty seats in the
(Broadcast the board walls are crisp and Close-ups of the various skaters partition off the stadium’s out-of- shadows as the overhead HD
HDTV) detailed, and the grain of the reveal realistic flesh tones. view empty seats, and there are cameras follow the action on
Extreme Sports wood is clearly visible. plenty of black-painted surfaces the track below.
(NBC) on the main skateboard track.
The Knoll puts out a respect-
ably bright picture, but not at the
expense of deep black washout.

projectors
but after activating a selection, the message Bottom Line: Ratings

box remains on-screen until the Exit button is
pressed twice.
Knoll contends that many of their customers
By concentrating on the inclusion of useful
features and technologies such as the all-glass
Nikon optics, the Osram lamp modulation
specs/pricing
will have the projector connected to an system and the HQV Reon video processing, Practical Screen Size Upper Limit (10
external system controller and won’t be using Knoll has succeeded in coming up with a solid features Foot-Lamberts, 1.0 gain): 125” diagonal
the projector’s remote, and they also note that performer. While the OSD and the remote 16:9 
the IR code set is available with a number of disappoint, Knoll’s dealer base of custom connectivity
1:1 Mode: Yes 
popular universal system remotes, including integrators can easily engineer around those Has Mode 1 Scaling (vertical stretch for
Nevo, Philips and RTI to name three. shortcomings with any of a number of popular
user interface movable anamorphic lens compatibility)?:

system remote controllers. Yes  
value Has Mode 2 Scaling (horizontal squeeze
RECOMMENDED
SETTINGS Where it really counts, the Knoll delivers,
for fixed anamorphic lens compatibility)?:
Color 0 and by providing two different models, each Yes 
Tint 0 tailored for specific installation conditions, their 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Video inputs: 2 HDMI, 1 component,
Sharpness Normal custom integrators can match the right model 1 S-video/1 composite (shared), 1 RGB PC 
Picture Mode Normal for just about any front projection scenario.TPV Other connections: 2 12V trigger outputs,
HD size (pixel-to-pixel) Anamorphic 1 RS-232C serial port, 1 USB port for ser-
vice/upgrade 
Overscan type Crop
Dimensions (W x H x D): 15” x 6.5” x 12.8”  
Overscan adjust 0 Weight: 15.9 lbs. 
Color Temperature D65 Warranty: 2 years parts & labor; 90 days
Gamma 2.2 (2.28 result) on lamp 
Color Space Auto Price: $6,798.95; $5,999.95 for HDP1100
Dynamic Black Off short throw version
Brilliant Color Off Knoll Systems 
Detail Enhancement Off (800) 566-4555 
LTI Off www.knollsystems.com
CTI Low

projectors
Mitsubishi HC5500
focus, zoom, and offset adjustments, which Mode 2, so Mitsubishi is to be commended for
hampers adjustment precision, especially if the providing both stretch and squeeze modes.
projector is sited far from the screen. The Silicon Optix Reon processor provides
LCD Projector
outstanding 480i and 1080i scaling and dein-
Features terlacing, with effective MPEG noise reduction
With the Mitsubishi’s motorized optics and modes for SD content (but not HD), where it’s
dual-range controls, setup is a breeze. Once more likely to be needed. (The step-up HQV
the projector is ceiling-mounted (or placed on Realta processor does provide both HD and
David Birch-Jones a shelf towards the back of the room), simply SD MPEG noise reduction, but its increased
take the remote control in hand and then make cost precludes its inclusion in projectors in the
k the requisite focus, zoom, and vertical offset Mitsubishi’s price range).
Playbmaecnded
Recom adjustments right at the screen. The Mitsubi- The HC5500 retains Mitsubishi’s traditionally
2009 shi offers coarse (to get you in the zone) and excellent “shutter” control adjustments, which
step (to get you right to the absolute optimum allows slight cropping to exorcise random pic-
point) adjustments, and the vertical offset ture noise at the extreme edges of the picture
range is sufficient to allow above-the-screen
placement, as well as allow shelf placement.
The only limitation is that there’s no horizontal
offset adjustment—no big loss for most users,
I would expect.
overview
New for this Mitsubishi is the addition of Consider this Projector if:
both Anamorphic Mode 1 (horizontal stretch) you’re looking for an all-round first rate
and Anamorphic Mode 2 (horizontal squeeze) performer, which has top-notch video
scaling. The former provides the necessary processing courtesy of the HQV Reon
1.33 stretch for anamorphic lens compatibility, chip, the latest C2Fine inorganic Vertical
for true 2.40:1 ultra widescreen movie view- Alignment LCD imaging panels, and which
ing. The latter mode allows the anamorphic provides truly inky blacks and great dark
lens to be fixed permanently in front of the gray detail. What’s more, the projector adds
projector’s lens (no motorized or manual lens not one but two widescreen anamorphic
sled needed), which can save between $1,000- processing modes, which are new for
M
itsubishi’s next-to-top-of-line 3LCD and dark gray reproduction, along with Silicon $3,000 for those that want to display 16:9 non- Mitsubishi.
1080p front projector is certainly Optix’s HQV Reon video processor. anamorphic images with the anamorphic lens Look elsewhere if:
very well equipped, with a host of The company has wisely carried over the fixed in front of the projector lens. Given the you choose to ignore our “Playback
improvements over the model it replaces, excellent motorized optics from earlier models, Mitsubishi’s very reasonable price, that option Recommended” honor, which we’ve
including the latest C2Fine inorganic Vertical with improved control over lens adjustment is now available to an even wider consumer bestowed on the Mitsubishi given its
Alignment LCD imaging panels, which provide precision during setup. Many projectors in the base. Other projectors that offer anamorphic tremendous price/performance ratio.
noticeable improvements in very deep black Mitsubishi’s price range provide only manual scaling usually only include Mode 1 and not

projectors
(something you’d notice when watching SD Connectivity

content on an HD channel for example, when About par for the course, the Mitsubishi has
the projector is set to 1:1 100% scaling mode). two HDMI inputs, along with component,
The Mitsubishi puts out a bright enough im- S-video and composite connections. The
age with the low-lamp mode that most users PC input can only handle resolutions up to
can get by just fine without needing to run it in 1024x768 (XGA)—for higher PC resolutions
the high-lamp mode, which will provide sub- you’ll need to use one of the two HDMI inputs.
stantially extended lamp life. The Mitsubishi A trigger output is handy for motorized screen
runs super-quietly too, running virtually inaudi- or drapery control.
bly as long as the soundtrack is barely louder
than a whisper—I could only notice the faintest USER INTERFACE
and most gentle “whooshing” sound when the On Screen Display
audio system was completely stifled. Well-designed and logically laid out, the OSD
only suffers from a lack of placement options—
PERFORMANCE
With the overscan set to 100% Although the color analyzer The film’s opening scene shows Same scene has the mechanic’s as- None noted.
(1:1 mode), the Mitsubishi puts reports a wider gamut than the Morgan Freeman’s character (a sistant peering out from under the
out a sharp picture even at the HDTV spec calls for, the Mitsubi- mechanic) in a garage, with his car, and the vehicle’s under-chassis
screen edges. An early scene has shi doesn’t overemphasize color assistant at work on underside details are easily discernable.This
(Blu-Ray) Jack Nicholson’s character savor- too much. Turning down the of a car, and the vehicle’s black is very good performance for
Bucket List ing a cup of espresso, served color control just two or three tire and rim appears suitably such a moderately priced projec-
in an elegant gold-and-china notches puts things right, giving black (and not simply dark gray). tor— credit must go to the newer
demitasse, with easily discernable believable flesh tones. C2Fine inorganic Vertical Alignment
details. LCD panels, which are superior to
earlier offerings.
A bit soft, but that isn’t the This old-house improvement The show’s hostess Jodi is wear- As Jodi enters a home, the None noted.
projector’s fault.This is one of series is a treat to watch in HD, ing a dark black jacket and shiny camera pans upward to a win-
numerous HD shows that are and the Mitsubishi’s just-a-tad black leather boots, which the dowed transom over the front
(HDTV) produced using less than stellar- extra color richness brings a Mitsubishi displays with inky, rich door, and the HC5500 lets me
Wrecklamation grade HD camera equipment, and little extra pop to the interior blacks. see the dark details in the inte-
(Planet Green) is MPEG-4 re-encoded to boot. scenes, but not at the expensive rior ceiling through the glass
Still, the Mitsubishi does a fine job of cartoonish skin tones.
of showing detail on a close-up of
a glittering chandelier.

projectors
the choices are either top left or bottom right are also direct buttons for all of the important processor, Mitsubishi’s excellent motorized
screen corners. This limitation won’t trouble
most users, but for those that opt for the
widescreen 2.40:1 anamorphic route, the menu
picture control and lens adjustment functions,
another big plus.
optical adjustment system, and dual
anamorphic scaling modes (this is the first
generation of Mitsubishi projectors to include
specs/pricing
system is outside of the visible screen area RECOMMENDED SETTINGS those features). Overall excellent picture quality Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080
when in widescreen mode—I’d have preferred Color -3 is a testament to good design and smart 1:1 Mode: Yes
a vertically-centered screen left and right OSD Tint 0 product management. The HC550 is as quiet
1 S-video, 1 composite, 1 RGB PC
placement options for better anamorphic Sharpness 0 a projector as I’ve ever heard (or not heard, in Other connections: RS-232C serial port,
compatibility. Color Temperature Medium/User this case). 12V trigger output
HD size (1:1 pixel-to-pixel) 100% At its $2,295 list price, the HC5500 is Dimensions (W x H x D): 13.2” x 4.9” x
Remote Control Gamma Video (comes closest to 2.2) definitely a cut above some other models in its 13.9”
A comfortable size, the Mitsubishi’s remote Auto Iris Off price class, but when you factor in the current Weight: 12.4 lb.
Warranty: 2 years parts & labor (1 year/500
control features a sculptured back panel for CTI Off $300 rebate and bonus free replacement lamp hours on lamp, whichever comes first)
improved grip, and is backlit with amber color promotion that runs through the late spring Price: $2,295
tone, which is a big plus. It also features direct Bottom Line: (a $459 value that might even be extended
source input buttons, another big advantage Mitsubishi scores high marks with its HC5500. further), the HC5500 by far leads the pack Mitsubishi Presentation Products Division
over most projector remote controls. There High points include the latest 3LCD 1080p in terms of performance and high value in (888) 307-0349
www.mitsubishi-presentations.com
are three picture memory buttons, and there imaging panels, the Silicon Optix Reon video affordable 1080p front projection. TPV
Ratings


features

connectivity

user interface

value

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

projectors
USER INTERFACE
Optoma HD20
at the back of the room. The HD20’s fixed verti-
cal offset allows the set to be ceiling-mounted On Screen Display
at a height above the top of the screen, but No news to report here, as the HD20 features
DLP Projector
that same fixed offset means that for table-top Optoma’s standard OSD design, which is
or shelf mounting it needs to be placed at a certainly competent enough, with the typical
point lower than the screen’s bottom edge. The menu sub-groups that mirror other projectors’
further away from the screen the projector sits, configurations. The OSD doesn’t include any
the lower it needs to be, so ceiling-mounting is provision for adjusting the on-screen time, but
David Birch-Jones pretty much the only way to go. that shortcoming is shared by many other pro-
The zoom and focus adjustments are of the jectors. It does like to play run-and-hide after
hair-trigger variety, with coarse granularity that just a few seconds of adjustment inactivity,
will have you cursing at setup. I’d recommend which makes setup a bit of a chore. The OSD
pairing the HD20 with a ceiling mount that can also be shifted around to various locations
includes three-axis adjustability—Chief’s new on the screen.
compact RSMA Mini Elite would fit that bill, for You’d never know the HD20 was priced so
example. low given the projector’s extensive range of
picture adjustments, which include gamma
Features
1080p single-chip DLP at $999 sums up the
HD20’s appeal. For the price, don’t expect
step-up features such as horizontal and verti-
cal lens shift, and the necessarily compact
overview
optics don’t provide the deepest blacks that Consider this Projector if:
upper-tier single chip DLP projectors can you’d like a well-designed 1080p single
provide. chip DLP projector at a remarkably
However, the HD20 provides a pretty good inexpensive price. Optoma has a well-
feature package, including extensive picture deserved reputation for delivering high
tuning adjustments not usually found on price- value front projectors, and the HD20
leader models. provides a really good picture that will
O
ptoma’s diminutive HD20 is barely winner on their hands. surely please.
larger than two hard-bound books, You would expect that delivering a high value Connectivity Look elsewhere if:
and its small size might have some product at a breakthrough price point would Three HD inputs (two HDMI, one component) you need installation flexibility, as the HD20
dismissing the projector as a mere toy (it necessitate some reductions in the feature is more than generous for a projector at this doesn’t come with horizontal and vertical
isn’t). Its low price tag might also turn some package, and you’d be right. For example, the price point, with an RGB PC input and a single lens shift, which will preclude its use in
away, but the good news here is that Optoma HD20 isn’t equipped with horizontal and verti- composite input tossed in for good measure. certain placement situations—it really is
(who’ve always done well with designing good cal lens shift, which will be an issue for those The RGB PC input can accept resolutions up designed for ceiling-mounting only.
performers at high value price points) has a that would like to mount the projector on a shelf to 1600 x 1200 (UXGA).

projectors
curve and offset controls among others. In Remote Control As well, there are buttons for overscan, edge by going with the HD20 you’ll be able to put
fact, the HD20 has all you (or your calibration I certainly wasn’t expecting a backlit remote masking and lamp mode—I’ve seen projectors together a true widescreen front projection
technician) really need in order to dial in a real- to come with the HD20, but there you go. that cost more than ten times what the little setup for a lot less money than with many
ly good-looking picture. Video buffs who like to While the backlighting is blue (amber is best Optoma does that come with remotes that are other anamorphic-compatible projector
twiddle and tweak the picture (and are armed for contrast in low light), the brightness was missing many of these features. models.
with suitable test discs or a test pattern gen- high enough that I didn’t have to squint in Incredibly, the HD20 is equipped with Mode
erator) will be in heaven. The only thing missing my darkened theater room. There are direct 1 vertical stretch scaling, allowing the use COMMENDED SETTINGS
RE
is a color management system (CMS), but the buttons for the various aspect ratios as well of an outboard anamorphic lens (you’ll also A full calibration performed at the time of
set’s overall colorimetry is actually better than as direct buttons for the inputs, and there are need a suitably wide 2.40:1 screen). Although installation is really the only way to ensure that
some other more expensive projectors. discrete power on and off buttons to boot. outboard anamorphic lenses aren’t cheap, the projector is properly optimized and mated
PERFORMANCE
With 1080p single-pixel test The HD20’s default color settings The set’s default Bright picture Fairly good, aided by the adjust- None noted.
patterns, the HD20’s economy and somewhat over-expanded mode puts out a surprisingly able gamma parameters. Most of
optics tend to soften things up colorimetry provide a too-rich bright picture, but the Cinema, the race scenes are shot at night,
a bit compared to more expen- color intensity, although this film’s Reference and User modes and the various drivers inside
sive projectors, but with actual color palette ranges from the sub- tame some of that extra bright- their dark vehicle interiors are
(Blu-ray) program material the set puts dued to the intense, depending on ness, and improve the deep fairly easy to see, but there is
Death Race out a comfortably crisp image. the scene.Turning the color con- blacks. There’s more light spill on some black crush which obscures
The disc menu for this movie trol down tames things somewhat very deep blacks than I care for, dark gray detail.
features sharply-defined graphics without washing out the picture. but that’s about the only major
and single-pixel text that came drawback of the HD20.
through surprisingly well for such
a low-priced projector.
A brief segment has a commen- With the HD20’s color control With so many of the cars sport- Various close-ups of the drivers None noted.
tator showing one race car’s dialed down, the over-emphasis ing shiny black paint jobs on in their cars during pit stops
elaborate brake cooling system, at the factory default position which their various sponsorship are bit too shadowy, but then
(Broadcast and the HD close-up shots are largely goes away. The various logos are applied, the HD20 does this nighttime race doesn’t have
remarkably clear and crisp. cars’ colorful paint jobs and logo a fine job of delivering good deep optimum lighting along pit row.
HDTV)
embellishments have just the blacks.
NASCAR Racing right amount of color vividness.
(ESPN) The projector’s Warm color
mode puts the set’s color tem-
perature remarkably close to the
D65 color temperature ideal.

projectors
to the projection screen, but our recommended 1080p DLP projectors I’ve had my hands on quibbles when I consider the surprisingly
settings will put you in the ballpark.
Color
Tint
40 
50 
lately. The set puts out enough light (in the
Bright mode) to handle even very large screen
sizes, and the other picture modes including
good performance and the tremendous value.
At the risk of repeating myself, the Optoma
HD20 shows once again that good engineering
specs/pricing
Sharpness 1  Cinema and Reference feature default need not come with any price premium. It’s a Practical Screen Size Upper Limit (10
Picture Mode User or Reference settings very close to the technical ideal. The tremendous performer and a superlative value, Foot-Lamberts, 1.0 gain): 180” diagonal
16:9 
(Choose Bright if you plan projector runs fairly quietly, and the extensive which will surely increase the number of big
to mate the HD20 with a very large screen)  video adjustability means that the HD20 can screen front projection aficionados. TPV 1:1 Mode: Yes 
HD size (pixel-to-pixel) Overscan Off  be mated to just about any screen size and Has Mode 1 Scaling (vertical stretch for
Color Temperature Warm  material type. The inclusion of anamorphic Ratings anamorphic lens compatibility)?: Yes  
Image AI Off  Mode 1 vertical stretch scaling puts to shame Video inputs: 2 HDMI, 1 component,
overall picture quality (SD) 1 composite, 1 RGB PC (doubles as a 4th
NR Off  some other projector brands, who only offer component input with suitable adapter
B/W Extension Off  the function on their higher-priced models as overall picture quality (HD) cable) 
Gamma Film; Curve: +2; a step-up inducement (yet, the feature itself Other connections: 1 12V trigger output  
Offset: 0 (2.26 result) costs virtually nothing). features Dimensions (W x H x D): 12.8” x 3.8”
With the very difficult 1080i “Jaggies” test x 9.2”  
Bottom Line: pattern on the Spears & Munsil Blu-ray test connectivity Weight: 6.4 lbs. 
Warranty: 1 year parts & labor; 90 days
Frankly, I’m amazed at the overall terrific disc, the HD20 did an incredibly good job
performance of the Optoma HD20. Given the of deinterlacing it to 1080p, as good as I’ve
user interface on lamp 
Price: $999.00
breakthrough low price, I was expecting at ever seen on any display or outboard video value
least some significant compromises, but found processor. I have only a few gripes with the OPTOMA 
virtually none, save for a little higher light spill HD20, such as the overly sensitive focus and (888) 289-6786
on deep blacks compared to other single-chip zoom adjustments, but these are really minor 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 www.optomausa.com

projectors
Optoma HD8200
royal pain when trying to dial in the optics to input. Single composite, S-video and compo-
match the screen. A mere touch of one control nent inputs are joined with an RGB PC input
necessitates a re-adjustment of another, mak- that’s HD-compatible. Two 12v trigger outputs
DLP Projector
ing setup especially irksome when the projec- can be used for screen and motorized anamor-
tor is ceiling-mounted towards the back of phic lens control, to name just two functions
the room. For less money than the HD8200, that these can provide.
Mitsubishi’s upper-tier 1080p 3LCD models The elegant cabinet features an inset rear
provide remote-controlled motorized optical input panel that will allow for out-of-sight cable
David Birch-Jones adjustments with both coarse and fine granu- management when ceiling-mounted.
larity, which makes setup a breeze.
Optoma touts the video processing section’s USER INTERFACE
Playb
Recom ack prowess, which combines the firm’s own front- On Screen Display
mende end video chip that’s paired with Pixelworks’ Nothing fancy here, just a text-based OSD that
d
2009 latest PW9800 video processor chip. With does the job just fine, with logically grouped
arduous test patterns and test video clips, the sub-menus, along with an option to position the
combo does indeed provide excellent upcon- OSD at various locations in the image area. The
version and deinterlacing, rendering even the adjustments including sliding bars with numeric
most difficult clips with both sharpness and indicators, but they only remain onscreen for a
smoothness, and with no apparent artifacts. few seconds, which is bothersome when making
With the Spears & Munsil jaggies test (on Blu- adjustments or measurements. A high resolution
ray), it produced the best result I’ve ever seen, grid pattern and a full-field white pattern are
which should ensure that any 1080i HD shows included to aid in fine-tuning the optics during
will be completely jaggy-free. It’s also ISF certi-
fied, so installers and calibrators can dial in
(and then lock) critical picture adjustments with
both Day and Night viewing modes.
There are a variety of picture enhancement
overview
functions, but I found best results with most of Consider this Projector if:
them bypassed. The Reference picture mode you’re looking for a very good 1080p
W
ith a high-end look (and a midrange and zoom controls, but they’re manual, as are produced excellent measured results, and single-chip DLP projector that features
price tag) Optoma’s latest full 1080p the horizontal and vertical lens shift adjust- appeared to deliver the most natural-looking generous connectivity and a first-rate video
DLP projector combines the firm’s ments. Having both horizontal and vertical lens picture out of all the choices available. processing engine
own video processor with Pixelworks’ PW9800 shift is a plus, especially if there are archi- Look elsewhere if:
chip for the smoothest picture. tectural impediments to having the projector Connectivity you’d like easier setup, as the set’s manual
mounted directly in line with screen center. The With two HDMI inputs (the norm these days), optical adjustments are overly sensitive,
Features fly in the ointment here is that the granularity the HD8200 also features a DVI input that, with making installation a chore.
The optical system features the requisite focus of the controls is much too coarse, which is a a suitable adapter, can act as a third HDMI

projectors
setup. second credit card-sized convenience remote

is also included, which can be magnetically
Remote Control attached to the projector above the
The compact remote is backlit, which is a connections bay at the back–a handy feature if
plus, but the blue backlighting fades away the main remote somehow goes AWOL.
after just a few seconds. Touching any button
activates the backlighting, but there’s no COMMENDED SETTINGS
RE
dedicated light button. There are direct input Color 45
selector buttons (yay!), along with dedicated Tint 50
buttons for brightness and contrast as well Sharpness 1
as picture size buttons. The Letterbox button Picture Mode Reference
is the one that puts the projector into vertical HD size (pixel-to-pixel) No overscan
stretch mode, which is the setting that’s used Color Temperature Warm
for watching 2.35:1 widescreen movies with an NR Off
outboard anamorphic lens (such as the popular Gamma Film; Curve: 0;
Panamorph) on a suitably wide screen. A Offset: 0 (2.3 result)
PERFORMANCE
This unusual film features a Given the somber subject matter A mock funeral scene has the That same scene has the direc- None noted.
gigantic recreation of New (a community theater director’s priest in black garb along with tor’s back to the camera, only
York City’s cityscape in a huge mortality), the color palette is many attendees wearing similar- indirectly lit, and the Optoma
(Blu-ray) warehouse, with elaborate set suitably restrained, especially with ly dark black clothing, which the provides very good shadow detail
Synecdoche pieces along with a heavy dose respect to flesh tones. Outdoor Optoma renders very well. The rendition.
New York of CGI. The Optoma delivers daylight scenes pop with lush color, lower lamp mode still provides a
all of the sumptuous detail with though, and I saw no need to ac- sufficiently bright picture, along
very good uniformity across the tivate the Optoma’s various color with improved blacks.
entire screen. enhancement features.
A segment covering wedding Nice and rich, the color has a Some of the rings are displayed in While the entire Today Show None noted.
jewelry has a number of close- slight over-emphasis that can’t jet black boxes with deep black set is very brightly lit, a close-
(Broadcast up shots, showing the various be completely dialed down, velvet and shiny black embroidery up of one of the hosts has the
HDTV) pieces’ intricate detail, which but it never veered toward the with the close-up shots show- set’s coffee table casting a dark
Today Show looks sharp as a tack, along with garish. Do trim back the color ing rich, inky blacks with superb shadow over the light carpet,
(NBC) a complete absence of jaggies on control just a few steps from the contrast surrounding the shiny and the Optoma picks up the
straight edges. default middle setting to make rings on display. details of the carpet’s pile
skin tones their most realistic. underneath.

projectors
Dynamic Black Off

Pure Detail
Pure Color
Pure Motion
Off
Off
Off
specs/pricing
Image AI Off Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080 
1:1 Mode: Yes 
Video inputs: 2 HDMI, 1 DVI, 1 component,
Bottom Line: 1 S-video 1 composite, 1 RGB PC 
While not inexpensive, the HD8200 is a fine Other connections: 2 12v trigger outputs,
all-around performer, delivering very good 1 RS-232 
color and contrast performance. The light Dimensions (W x H x D): 14.6” x 7.6”
output at the lower lamp setting is sufficient for x 19.2” 
most standard-sized screens, which reduces Weight: 17.6 lb. 
Warranty: 3 years parts & labor, 1 year on
power consumption, extends lamp life, and lamp 
delivers darker blacks in the process. The Price: $4,999.99
video processing engine provides deinterlacing
and upconversion performance on par with OPTOMA 
expensive outboard video processors, and with (408) 383-3700 
www.optomausa.com
three digital video inputs plus the legacy analog
inputs and a PC input as well, the connectivity
should be enough for just about any user.
The coarse granularity of the optical Ratings
adjustments is the only downside here, which
will make setup a chore, but once it’s properly
dialed in, the HD8200 puts out a great-looking overall picture quality (HD)
picture. The anamorphic vertical stretch mode
is a plus for users wanting to go the 2.35:1 features
widescreen route (with a suitable anamorphic
lens, of course), and in the low lamp mode the connectivity

projector runs very quietly indeed. Optoma also
provides a more generous warranty period than
user interface

most with this model, both on the projector as
value
well as the lamp, and also provides express
unit replacement instead of the usual repair-
and-return. TPV 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

projectors
Optoma HD806 Y
ou’ll come up short if you go searching ogy (AI-II) for extra image manipulation with
for an LCD projector within Optoma’s lower resolution images, such as SDTV, VCR,
extensive lineup, since the firm is as or camcorder sources. I also like the Edge
LCD Projector
“DLP faithful” as they come. The HD806 sits Masking function, which provides cropping of
above the company’s entry level 1080p single- the four edges to eliminate the edge flicker that
chip DLP offerings, and is distinguished by often accompanies SD segments of HD shows,
a 300 watt UHP lamp for brighter images on for example.
large screen sizes. The lens system is all-manual, with conven-
David Birch-Jones Powered by a PixelWorks video processor tional focus ring and zoom lever adjustments—
chip (a popular choice among projector mak- something to consider if the projector is to be
ers), the HD806 also features Anamorphic Mode mounted far from the screen. On the plus side,
1 1.33 vertical stretch scaling for compatibility
with an optional external anamorphic lens for
Playb
Recom ack
mended
2009
true 2.40:1 widescreen viewing. Optoma has
teamed up with Panamorph (the market leader
in anamorphic widescreen lenses) to provide
overview
their dealers and customers with a dedicated Consider this Projector if:
Optoma-compatible lens/sled combo. you’re looking for a sharp and vivid picture.
The HD806 features an extended color
Features gamut (no compatible Rec.701-compatible
Unlike some LCD-based projectors which fea- HDTV gamut choice is provided),
ture automatic iris via motorized “french door” which tends to give colors some extra
mechanical light control, the Optoma features punchiness. The HD806 also features a DVI
a conventional “stop-down” iris, which can be input for PCs and laptops so-equipped, but
preset among 17 settings or set to Auto where only the European version is equipped with
the projector ratchets the iris opening size up a DVI-A input, which allows for hookup to
or down according to the average picture level. a conventional RGB analog PC output (a
The trouble with this approach is the quite suitable adaptor is also necessary).
noticeable lag and subsequent picture bright- Look elsewhere if:
ening and darkening artifacts that can’t be you need installation flexibility, as the
escaped. It’s best to leave the iris at a single HD806 does not feature adjustable lens
setting—the 17 settings range should allow shift. The amount of built-in offset is quite
anyone to find the right combination of light generous (136%), which allows above-
output and best deep black performance. the-screen ceiling mounting, but if you’re
In addition to Texas Instruments’ TrueVivid considering shelf or tabletop mounting,
color enhancement processing, Optoma also forget it.
tosses in their automatic improvement technol-

projectors
PERFORMANCE
A close-up shot of comic books A bit rich, but not too much so. I Will Smith’s sunglasses have A laptop computer’s top cover None noted.
(sorry, Comic-Con fans—graph- find that dialing the color down deep black frames with simi- is in the shadows, and the Op-
ic novels) let’s me see the sharp helps give skin tones a more natu- larly inky black lenses, which toma clearly shows sculptural
(Blu-Ray) text and graphics on the covers. ral, believable appearance. I see no the HD806 does a fine job of details of the casing even though
Hancock need to activate the TrueVivid func- reproducing. the image is quite dark.
tion here, but that feature’s color
enhancement might benefit other,
less saturated programs.
The Science Channel’s on- As with the Blu-ray movie, the No observations on black level A close-up shot in the shadows of None noted.
screen “bug” is a square white Optoma shows skin tones that performance noted for this fire-resistant chemical foam in a
(HDTV) box with a logo inside, and the are just a tad rich—an attribute HDTV program. bucket clearly shows the markings
How Stuff Works detail is crisp and clean. that will appeal to many. Dial- on the bucket’s interior wall—this
(Science) ing the color down just a few is quite good performance for a
notches improves flesh tones single-chip DLP projector.
considerably.
the HD806 features Optoma’s 02 filter-less air Devoid of fancy graphics, the OSD is simple as well as some of the more oft-used picture Bottom Line:
filtration system, which promises to reduce and straightforward, with logical groupings. controls, along with direct aspect ratio buttons. The Optoma HD806 is a no-nonsense 1080p
maintenance over the life of the projector. I like that the OSD can be placed at screen In all, the remote is one of the better-designed DLP projector that produces sharp and vivid
center or at any of the four corners, which aids types I’ve come across lately. images, which stop well short of the garish
Connectivity external anamorphic lens compatibility when color exaggerations some projectors impose
Just about what you’d expect. The Optoma adjusting the set while in 2.40:1 widescreen COMMENDED SETTINGS
RE (though you’ll want to back color down a bit
includes two HDMI and one each component, mode. Color 45 to achieve more accurate skin tones). We also
S-video, and composite inputs. A DVI input is Tint 50 applaud the fact that Optoma has worked
useful for PCs and laptops so-equipped, but Remote Control Sharpness 2 out a good anamorphic lens option with
for non-European models, the HD806’s DVI in- A tad smaller than I’d like, the remote control Picture Mode Cinema PanamorphСan option that can make home
put is digital only (a DVI-A input, as supposedly is nonetheless well-designed, with a number Color Temperature Warm theater experiences much more involving.
found on the Euro version features analog RGB of positive attributes, not the least of which is HD size (1:1 pixel-to-pixel) 0 (Cropping) Our only cautionary note: bear in mind that
PC compatibility, as long as a suitable adapter backlighting (in this case, a nicely vivid green). Gamma Video (closest to 2.2) the HD806 is not suitable for shelf or tabletop
is employed). Many of the buttons feature imprinted icon Image AI-II Off mounting. But when mounted on the ceiling,
overlays, aided via printed nomenclature on Auto Iris Off it’s a winner. TPV
USER INTERFACE the remote’s smooth white surface. Other plus TrueVivid Off
On Screen Display points include direct source selection buttons,

projectors
specs/pricing
1:1 Mode: Yes
Video inputs: 2 HDMI v.1.3, 1 DVI w/HDCP,
1 component, 1 S-video, 1 composite
Other connections: RS-232C serial port,
1 x 12V trigger
Dimensions (W x H x D): 16” x 4.6” x 12.2”
Weight: 10 lb.
Warranty: 1 years parts & labor (90 days
lamp)
Price: $2,599
Optoma TECHNOLOGY. INC.

(408) 383-3700
www.optomausa.com
Ratings


features

connectivity

user interface

value

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

projectors
Optoma HD8600 F
or a number of front projection ed brands, such as Runco, Digital Projection,
installation applications, the typical and Projection Design to name three of the
throw distance of today’s projectors better known brands in the interchangeable
1080p DLP
isn’t sufficiently short or long. While virtually lens segment. The price tag for this class of
all front projectors offer some degree of zoom gear typically starts in the five-figure range and
adjustment, either manual or motorized, they’re escalates upward from there. With the intro-
Projector
spec’d for the most common installation duction of the HD8600, Optoma dramatically
situations. lowers the cost of entry into this exclusive front
Older CRT-based front projectors were typi- projection class.
cally equipped with lenses featuring short throw Shipped without a lens, the HD8600 is a step
ratios, and owners looking to replace them up from the firm’s HD8200 model (reviewed in
David Birch-Jones with a modern HD equivalent face removal and Playback 22), with a brighter lamp (280 watts
re-installation of the ceiling mount, as well as vs. 220 watts), an additional HDMI input, along
k re-positioning wiring, among other challenges. with premium all-glass lenses offered among
Playbmaecnded
Recom A rear projection system also benefits from a
2009 very short throw ratio, saving valuable space
behind the screen.
Others may wish to have the projector
mounted at the extreme rear of the room for a
overview
variety of reasons, including aesthetics, mini- Consider this Projector if:
mizing fan noise from intruding into the prime you need a projector with either a very short
seating area, or even putting the projector in a or a very long throw ratio that’s well outside
custom soffit or hush box, and for them, only that of the typical throw range of fixed lens
a projector with a very long throw distance will front projectors. In addition to the standard
suffice. throw lens option, Optoma offers a fixed
Optoma, makers of a range of popularly- short throw (0.77:1 distance/width) lens and
priced HD projectors (including their marvelous a zoom-able long throw (1.93~2.90:1 d/w)
HD20 1080p DLP model, which is priced at an lens.
amazing $999 list), have taken up the challenge Look elsewhere if:
and now offer their HD8600 with three lens your situation doesn’t require either a short
choice options, at a price far below that of other or long throw lens. There are a host of
projectors that offer interchangeable lenses. lower cost alternatives, including Optoma’s
own HD8200 model, which is a very good
Features performer at a price of roughly $1,500 less
High definition front projectors with inter- than that of the HD8600 with the standard
changeable lenses have typically been offered throw lens.
by the premium tier custom installation-orient-

projectors
the interchangeable lens options. We tested turn and lock insertion. On the removable lens links up with its mate when the lens is twisted variable zoom, while the short throw lens (a
the unit with the standard throw lens, which is barrel is a four-pin connector that mates with and locked into place. $1,500 premium) is a fixed throw ratio affair. As
a wonderfully machined affair that connects to a partner connector in the projector’s lens hole The long throw lens option (a $1,000 pre- with other Optoma projectors, the focus and
the projector body in an instant via a bayonet for motorized iris control, and it automatically mium over the standard throw lens) offers zoom (or focus only on the short throw lens)
PERFORMANCE
Combine three legendary blues With the Reference setting and For all but the largest screens, At the back of the stage and None noted.
guitarists (Chicago’s own Buddy the D65 color temperature, the the lower lamp setting (which away from the prime light-
Guy, along with Clarence ‘Gate- 8600 puts forth a very colorful provides extended life) and an ing zones are numerous amp/
mouth’ Brown and Bobby Parker) picture that is at the same time iris setting at the mid-point speaker stacks, and they’re well
with guest artists including Carlos vivid but not overly saturated. provides an optimum combina- reproduced with no evidence of
Santana as well as Nile Rogers That’s especially evident in the tion of brightness along with black crush. Shots of the drum-
and Barbara Morrison, and you’ve many shots of the performers very good deep blacks, evident mer from off to his side reveal
(Blu-ray) got nearly four hours of musical and their natty outfits, and flesh here in numerous close-ups additional details in the shadows.
Carlos Santana dynamite.The Optoma’s excel- tones are very natural. of the keyboard’s black keys,
Presents Blues At lent 1080i deinterlacing shows its as well as the singer’s jet black
Montreux 2004 prowess on the many low angle microphone.
close-ups of guitar strings, with no
jaggies evident.The HD8600 also
scored very well on the Spears
& Munsil 1080i deinterlacing test
pattern, which jives with the ex-
cellent results achieved with this
Blu-ray disc.
A close-up under the hood shot The color analyzer confirms Both the show’s host and shop While the two are chatting None noted.
of a recent vintage but highly that the Optoma’s colorimetry owner Craig Biffle are sporting away, a black Mustang is situ-
beefed up Shelby Mustang shows very closely matches that of the black shirts, and Craig’s shirt ated behind them. Even with its
the brushed anodized intake HDTV standard (ITU Rec. 709), features tone-on-tone black tinted windows, detail’s of the
(Broadcast manifold and throttle body very which assures that vivid colors horizontal striping which is eas- car’s black interior are easily
HDTV) clearly defined. will pop, but lesser saturated ily discerned. discernable, such as the dash-
Car Crazy colors such as skin tones will be board top, steering wheel and
(Speed) realistically presented, as they the front seats.
are here.Various cars shown in
NASCAR driver Craig Biffle’s
shop feature fantastic paint jobs
with lots of vibrancy.

projectors
are manually adjusted. for programming system startup and shutdown Bottom Line:
There are vertical and horizontal lens shift
adjustments (manual) to aid in placement
versatility, as well as compatibility with an ex-
sequences with an external system controller
(and the projector features a RS-232C serial
port for a hardwired connection). There are
By offering different lens throw options,
Optoma adds to the choices available to
custom integrators as well as their customers
specs/pricing
ternal anamorphic lens for 2.35:1 widescreen discrete source buttons as well as individual for special front projection setups. The Practical Screen Size Upper Limit (10
projection, and the set features ISF certifica- buttons for key picture controls and for the projector itself, along with the standard throw Foot-Lamberts, 1.0 gain): 180” diagonal
16:9
tion, which provides for Day and Night picture various picture size modes. The remote is lens, is definitely a superlative performer (no
memories, along with a full set of calibration backlit with blue lighting, but it fades away surprise there). The short throw lens option is 1:1 Mode: Yes
controls. after just a few seconds (there’s no dedicated just the ticket for those wanting to replace an Has Mode 1 Scaling (vertical stretch for
backlight key either). aging CRT-based front projector and who don’t external anamorphic lens compatibility)?:
Connectivity A second convenience remote is intended want to re-structure their existing ceiling mount Yes
The HD8600 provides one each of compos- to be attached to the projector’s rear panel, and in-place wiring, or for those who want to Video inputs: 3 HDMI, 1 component,
1 S-video, 1 composite, 1 RGB PC (which
ite, S-video and HD-compatible component which can be helpful for an installation or have a custom rear projection system, while can be used as a second component input
video inputs, in addition to three HDMI inputs. service technician should the main remote the long throw option is ideal for situations with an adapter)
There’s a PC RGB input that, with a suitable be mislaid—that’s often the case in custom where the projector needs to be sited (for Other connections: 2 12V trigger outputs,
adapter, can serve as a second component installed systems with a single system whatever reason) way at the back of the home 1 RS-232C serial port, 1 USB port for
video input, which might be of interest to controller that contains just a few commands theater room. service/upgrade
Dimensions (W x H x D): 16.9” x 6.5”
owners of older CRT front projectors that were for basic projector operation. While a bit pricey compared to projectors
x 13.4”
previously connected via component video with fixed lens systems, the Optoma is priced Weight: 19.8 lbs. with standard and long
cables. Two 12V triggers allow for screen COMMENDED SETTINGS
RE far below other projectors with interchangeable throw lenses; 20 lbs. with short throw lens
masking and external anamorphic lens control, Color 0 lens options and is an all-around excellent Warranty: 3 years parts & labor with
and there’s a USB port for service access. Tint 0 performer that’s easy to recommend. TPV express replacement; 1 year on lamp
Sharpness 0 Price: $6,999.00 (projector w/o lens);
$499.00 additional for BX-DL200 standard
USER INTERFACE Picture Mode Reference Ratings throw lens; $1,499.00 additional for
On Screen Display Color Temperature D65
overall picture quality (SD) BX-DL300 long throw lens; $1,999.00
Virtually identical to the HD8200’s OSD, the Lens Iris 5 additional for BX-DL080 short throw lens
graphics feature reasonably legible text, Lamp Mode Economy overall picture quality (HD)
although when viewed during installation at Dynamic Black Off OPTOMA
features (408) 383-3700
the back of the room with the long throw lens Gamma Standard (2.26 result)
www.optomausa.com
option chosen there might be some squinting Black Level Auto
involved. The menu system features a wide Color Gamut HDTV connectivity

range of adjustments, and there are white field Pure Engine Off
user interface
and grid patterns to help with getting the pro- RGB Channel Normal
jector optically aligned with the screen. Overscan 0 value
Edge Mask 0
Remote Control 1:1 pixel-for-pixel mode WNative
Separate power on and off buttons are helpful 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

projectors
Samsung
and have added a few new features that are The marvelous self-calibration function is
of interest to both home theater enthusiasts carried over from the SP-A800B, which chops
as well as the Hollywood film-to-video post- the calibration time down from a couple of
SP-A900B 1080p
production community. First off, the SP-A900B hours to perhaps five minutes or so, and the
now sports Mode 1 anamorphic vertical post-calibration results produce outstandingly
stretch processing, which allows true 2.40:1 accurate scores that match to the highest pos-
DLP Projector
widescreen presentations with a suitably wide sible degree the specifications of the HD video
screen and an outboard anamorphic lens—that standard, qualifying the SP-A900B as a true
takes care of the # 1 gripe that I have with the reference grade display device. A color analyz-
SP-A800B model. This latest version also fea- er is required however, so you’ll still need the
tures improved contrast, with a quoted spec of services of a competent calibration expert to
David Birch-Jones 35% practical contrast increase compared to get everything dialed in just right—something
Playb the SP-A800B. you’d want to do anyway with a front projector
Recom ack Finally, the SP-A900B now features the abil- of this caliber.
mended
2009 ity to scale HDMI sources for both HD video
and computer/PC video – consumer HD video Connectivity
is encoded over the range of 16-234 levels, Four HD inputs (two HDMI, two component)
while PC video is encoded over a 0-255 range. should be enough for most home theater us-
Having both range choices allows proper black ers, and there are SD legacy inputs as well
levels and optimum contrast for each video as an RGB PC input for computer gamers or
encoding method. those who want to use the projector as a giant
Features
With the anamorphic vertical stretch scaling I
can use the SP-A900B along with my Stewart
CineCurve 2.40:1 widescreen and an outboard
overview
Panamorph anamorphic lens to enjoy wide- Consider this Projector if:
screen movies in their original theatrical pre- you’d like a reference grade projector with
sentation, with no black bars above and below anamorphic widescreen compatibility, a
the image. For home theater fans, that’s one of feature missing on the lower-cost SPA-
the SP-A900B’s two main advantages over the 800B. The increased contrast over the SPA-
lesser SP-A800B model. 800B is also noteworthy.
C
onsider the SP-A900B a “tweaked” Indeed this latest model now bears the Joe The other significant improvement is the Look elsewhere if:
version of the well-regarded SP-A800B Kane Productions logo along with a “Special improved contrast, which helps produce better you’re on a budget as the Samsung is most
front projector (reviewed in Playback Edition” moniker on the projector’s front panel. deep blacks. While the SP-A800B is a very definitely premium-priced for a single chip
issue 12); it is the latest collaboration between Mr. Kane and Samsung have succeeded in good performer in this regard, the step-up SP- 1080p DLP projector.
Samsung and noted video guru Joe Kane. improving an otherwise excellent projector, A900B model is noticeably better.

projectors
screen computer monitor. An RS-232 serial Remote Control of installation is really the only way to ensure NR Off
port allows the use of an external system con- Also virtually the same as the SP-A800B, that the projector is properly optimized and Gamma Film (2.2 result)
troller (Crestron, AMX, HAI and the like). the ovoid remote features backlighting, with mated to the projection screen.
buttons spaced far enough apart to avoid mis- Color 45 Bottom Line:
USER INTERFACE setting. The labeling is a tad on the small side Tint 0 Samsung has another winner with the SP-
On Screen Display though. Discrete input selector buttons are Sharpness Min A900B, with improved contrast, possibly even
Virtually the same as the SP-A800B, with a another plus. Picture Mode Movie 1 quieter fan noise than the 800 version (which
colorful text and graphics GUI that is well-laid HD size (pixel-to-pixel) 16:9, Overscan Off itself runs very quietly), and anamorphic vertical
out and logical. I like that the OSD can be set RECOMMENDED
SETTINGS Color Temperature 6500°K stretch processing for widescreen movie buffs
to display the various menus continuously, As with any other quality front projection setup, Dynamic Black Off (like me) who want to see 2.40:1 movies in
which aids setup and calibration immensely. having a full calibration performed at the time Color Standard HD their full original theatrical presentation. The
PERFORMANCE
The Samsung’s excellent optics Once properly adjusted, the Sam- I watched the movie in both let- With so many nighttime scenes None noted.
provide outstanding uniformity sung displays true reference grade terbox and anamorphic wide- in the movie, I never found
from edge to edge, corner to color accuracy, which is most screen modes, and in letterbox myself squinting to make out the
corner, and are one of the key evident in the movie’s late timeline mode the black bars at the top shadowy parts of the film—the
(Blu-ray)
reasons why this 1080p projector scenes, which have a more vivid and bottom of the image simply textbook perfect gamma provided
Watchmen carries a premium price.The vari- and sharper color palette than the disappeared when my theater excellent shadow details all the
ous HD “making of” featurettes color palette chosen for the film’s room’s lights were dimmed—an way down to the darkest grays.
are chock-a-block packed with many flashback scenes. excellent result.
stunning video detail.
Super crisp and clean, this tal- With spot-on colorimetry, the With the improved contrast The many close-ups of the Someone should tell the show’s
ent competition show features Samsung excels at producing over the SPA-800B version, the three-judge panel feature the producers to avoid the use of
superb production values and vivid color, but not at the ex- Samsung excels at keeping deep audience behind in shadows, strobe lights, as that causes the
uses high-grade studio quality pense of exaggerated skin tones, blacks from becoming washed and here again the Samsung broadcast HD encoder to go
(Broadcast HD camera equipment, and the making the show visually pop. out by nearby brighter portions does a superb job of providing haywire as it chokes to com-
HDTV) Samsung puts forth a detailed of the image—this attribute is excellent dark shadow details. press the HD video data down
America’s Got presentation that is highly uni- called “depth of modulation” and to the ATSC HD broadcast
Talent form across the entire screen. is a key performance parameter format’s data rate. It’s not the
(NBC) that sets this projector apart from fault of the Samsung at all, which
most other front projectors. dutifully displayed the obnoxious
compression artifacts that virtu-
ally always occur with strobe
lighting and live HD video.

projectors
increased contrast is also noteworthy, and

pro users using desktop HD video editing
workstations will appreciate the ability to
switch between HD video and PC video
specs/pricing
encoding ranges. While the projector carries Practical Screen Size Upper Limit (10 Foot-
a $5,500 premium over the SP-A800B version Lamberts, 1.0 gain): 164” diagonal 16:9 
(whose price has now dropped to $7,495), I
1:1 Mode: Yes 
suspect that for true movie buffs as well as Has Mode 1 Scaling (vertical stretch for
post-production houses looking for an all- anamorphic lens compatibility)?: Yes  
round excellent front projector, that premium Video inputs: 2 HDMI, 2 component,
will be easily justified. TPV 1 S-video, 1 composite, 1 RGB PC 
Other connections: RS-232 serial 
Dimensions (W x H x D): 18” x 8.5” x 19” 
Weight: 21.6 lbs. 
Ratings Warranty: 2 years parts & labor 
Price: $12,995.00

EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR
overall picture quality (HD) DVE Dist. Inc. 

1275 Bloomfield Ave 
features Building 9 Unit 78 
Fairfield, NJ 07004 
connectivity (973) 333-4630
www.dvedist.com
user interface
Samsung 
value (800) 726-7864 
www.samsung.com/US
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

projectors
Samsung
the best quality home video format, followed ted with Firehawk G3 screen material. Joe
by DVDs and then most recently on high-def indicated his liking for either of his preferred
Blu-ray and HD-DVD. But, few know that (and Joe Kane Productions-badged) screens
SPA-800B 1080P
Mr. Kane also consults with numerous HDTV (Stewart’s StudioTek 130 and Grayhawk RS),
manufacturers, often quietly in the background, both of which I also have on hand, so we set
advising them on how to make better looking up the system with the Grayhawk RS screen.
DLP Projector
HD displays. Ordinarily the calibration process is both
The SP-A800B isn’t the first projector that time-consuming and extensive, with numer-
Samsung has had Joe Kane involved with (an
k
Playbeancded earlier 720p DLP projector was the SP-A800B’s
overview
m
Recom precursor), but with this latest effort, top-end
David Birch-Jones single chip DLP projector performance has
k been elevated substantially.
Playbmaecnded Consider this Projector if:
Recom
2008 Features you want a projector that delivers
• Single chip Texas Instruments DarkChip2 outstanding picture uniformity across the
1080p imaging engine. entire screen, plus top-notch colorimetry
• Pure 3-color-only (RGB), 6 segment color that is as good as it gets. The Samsung’s
wheel. unique and highly accurate self-calibration
• Manual focus, zoom and lens shift. system essentially guarantees great results.
• Top-line optics. Also consider the SP-A800B if you want
• 300-watt UHP lamp. a projector that provides quite good SD
• Joe Kane’s “secret sauce.” upconversion and that is bright enough for
very large screens. Finally, note that the
SETUP Samsung provides an excellent and highly
For optimum picture quality with a two-piece informative on screen display system.
front projection system, a full precalibration and Look elsewhere if:
post-calibration analysis is a must, as the screen you seek maximum performance per dollar;
adds variability to the mix (two piece means just though excellent, the SP-A800B is top-
that, as the projector and the screen together tier projector that carries a premium price
T
here are two steps to high-end the competition. Such was the case this past decide the resulting picture quality—one can’t be (possibly putting the projector beyond
projection TV heaven. Step 1: get the summer, when, after quite a lengthy gestation evaluated without factoring in the other). reach for some home theater enthusiasts).
latest projector that video guru and period, Samsung finally released its SP-A800B For this reason, Joe wanted to know in ad- Also look further if you need or want a
industry veteran Joe Kane helped design. single-chip 1080p DLP projector. vance what screens I had on hand. I had three projector that provides an anamorphic
Step 2: have Joe Kane personally install and Many video enthusiasts know Joe Kane from screens on hand, all from Stewart Filmscreen, vertical stretch mode—a feature the SP-
set up/calibrate same, all the while telling you his various test and evaluation discs, first of with the principal screen being the company’s A800B does not include.
about the product and why it’s superior to the laser disc variety way back when that was CineCurve variable aspect ratio model, outfit-

projectors
PERFORMANCE
Clear and crisp enough to see Wow, just wow. From the ornate Chapter 6 features the doc- The next chapter features the MPEG-related speckle noise,
that while the movie is visually costumes to the incredibly deco- tor’s wife swathed from head to emperor receiving counsel in a which unfortunately mars an
(Blu-ray) stunning, the Blu-ray transfer has rated palace in the Forbidden toe in black chenille fabric, and darkened room, with the other otherwise visually stunning
Curse Of The some MPEG encoding-related City, the Samsung simply shines, the Samsung displays all of the character wearing an ornate black film—but that’s not the fault of
Golden Flower noise. delivering rich color without subtle elements of the costume. mesh headdress, beneath which the Samsung.
embellishment the Samsung clearly reveals the
actor’s hairline.
At the top of my list of favorite Here again, the Samsung’s out- Chapter 2 begins with Mr. Incred- In Chapter 6, a nighttime scene None noted.
DVDs to use when checking out standingly accurate colorimetry ible and his best man Mr. Freeze of Mr. Incredible and Mr. Freeze
displays, this superb production provides rich luscious color, but dressed in tuxedos for the wed- in a car reveals abundant shad-
(DVD) and excellent transfer show without unnecessary exaggeration. ding, and the deep black detail and ow detail of the auto’s interior
The Incredibles that the Samsung does a very quality is as good as it gets.
good job of deinterlacing and
upconversion, retaining all of the
movie’s fine detail.
With the Samsung set to 1:1 Natural-looking flesh tones of Mr. Mr. Williams likes his suits on Easy to see details in the darkly-lit None noted.
(Broadcast HDTV) pixel-for-pixel mode, the projec- Williams and on-set guests show the dark side, often charcoal background of the news studio.
NBC Nightly News tor shows all of the fine detail that the innate post-calibration gray or black. Here the Samsung
(NBC) in anchorman Brian Williams’s colorimetry accuracy of the Sam- shows its prowess by revealing
tailored suit without artifacts. sung is as good as you’ll ever see. the dark color tones of his suits.
ous measurements made, followed by vari- push of a button and the projector calibrated Ovoid-shaped, as is the projector itself, the the better-designed projector remote controls
ous tweakings of the display’s settings, more itself in an instant, adjusting all of the six color remote control features backlighting (always a I’ve come across.
measurements and tweaking and so forth. In points and the white point at the same time. good thing for a front projector, presumed to
this case, however, the entire process was A quick check afterwards showed indeed that be used in a darkened, light-controlled room). Menu System
made ever so much faster and simpler due to the white point (gray scale) and the colorimetry It includes discrete power on and off buttons, Typically Samsung, which means typically
the projector’s unique single-step calibration were indeed spot on, putting the SP-A800B which makes it compatible with external excellent, with logical and sensible groupings,
regimen. Within minutes, we had measured into the absolute top rank, with post-calibra- third-party controllers and system remotes clear and easy to find sub-menus, with
the color characteristics of the six principal tion results the best I’ve ever seen from any where startup and shutdown sequences can concise information available that includes full
colors (red, green and blue primaries, and display, front projector or otherwise. be programmed. And, it has discrete input disclosure about the incoming video signal—
cyan, yellow, and magenta secondaries) and buttons, another plus. The layout is sensible, especially useful to ensure that the source
then white, and entered the measured values USER INTERFACE although I wish both the buttons and labeling components are properly configured and a
into fields in the projector’s service menu. A Remote Control were somewhat larger, but overall it’s one of feature I wish that all high definition displays

projectors
provided. Often, with HDMI connections, performance in all key areas, wanting for Ratings
source components and the display don’t quite none. I only wish that the SP-A800B was
get the hookup handshake just right, which equipped with anamorphic lens compatibility,
can result in the source component putting which is nothing more than a simple overall picture quality (HD)
out a computer-type video signal (which vertical stretch mode, a feature that’s easily
differs from a video source signal in terms of implemented and is available on numerous features
below-black and above-white capability). If other projectors, even on models costing a
that occurs, it’s impossible to properly adjust fourth of the SP-A800B’s price. TPV connectivity

brightness and contrast.
user interface

RECOMMENDED
SETTINGS
In order to properly adjust any display, you’ll
need a good test disc. When Joe Kane comes
specs/pricing value

to visit to assist in the Samsung projector Practical Screen Size Upper Limit (10 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
setup, the only choice is, of course, his Digital Foot-Lamberts, 1.0 gain): 164” diagonal
16:9
Video Essentials HD Basics, which includes
Pixel Resolution: 1920 x 1080
all of the test patterns necessary to match the 1-1 Mode?: Yes
projector to the screen, as well as fine-tuning Accept 1080p?: Yes (24Hz, 60Hz)
the source. Has Mode 1 Scaling (vertical stretch for
Color Temperature 6500° anamorphic lens compatibility?: No
Gamma Film Video Inputs: 2 HDMI v1.3, 2 component,
1 S-video, 1 composite, 1 VGA
Picture Mode Movie 1 Other Connections: RS-232 serial port
Dynamic Black Off Dimensions (WxHxD): 17” x 7.8” x 18.4”
Weight: 21.6 lb.
Bottom Line: Warranty: 2 years parts and labor
The SP-A800B is a textbook example of Price: $7,495
proper video design. All too often, video
EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR
display engineers get a tad “creative,” looking DVE Dist. Inc. 
for ways to differentiate their products, 1275 Bloomfield Ave 
with the resulting efforts veering far from Building 9 Unit 78 
the established technical standards. In this Fairfield, NJ 07004 
case, the SP-A800B is a stunning performer (888) 383-9698
because it adheres to those standards and
Samsung
simply defines the state-of-the-art in single (800) 726-7864
chip DLP front projection. Expensive it is, but www.samsung.com/us
even at its price, the value equation is entirely
reasonable, given the projector’s exceptional

projectors
Sharp
as a carrying handle that tucks away when Remote Control
not used and a sliding manual lens cover. The Nothing fancy about the Sharp’s rather
manual focus and zoom adjustments are fine- compact remote, as it’s a plain-Jane affair that
XV-Z15000 1080p
grained enough to get the picture dialed in just features very small and tightly packed buttons
right during setup, but the optics don’t include with correspondingly small nomenclature. It
either horizontal or vertical lens shift. The set doesn’t help that the remote isn’t backlit either.
DLP Projector
has a goodly amount of vertical offset, which However, it does provide separate power on
is helpful for mounting the projector closest to and power off buttons along with discrete
a typical room’s ceiling, but that same vertical input selector buttons, which are two pluses
offset precludes shelf mounting the projector for encoding the remote’s codes into a system
at the back of the room if ceiling mounting isn’t controller or a deluxe learning remote. In a
David Birch-Jones an option. darkened home theater, however, you’ll need a
In the higher output lamp mode, the flashlight and perhaps reading glasses nearby
projector’s 250 watt lamp provides plenty of to operate the Sharp’s remote.
light output (rated at 1600 lumens), but even
at the lower lamp mode (which also extends RECOMMENDED SETTINGS
lamp life significantly), the Sharp still puts out Color: -5
enough light for a sufficiently bright picture on Tint: 0
fairly large screens. Sharpness: 0
Three HD inputs are provided (two HDMI, 1:1 mode (pixel-to-pixel): Resize—Dot By Dot
one component) along with S-video and Iris 1 (Manual): High Brightness
composite inputs—a typical complement for
projectors these days. There’s also an RGB
computer video input, and an RS-232C port for
external control.

overview
USER INTERFACE Consider this Projector if:
On-Screen Display you’d like an affordable 1080p DLP
A basic design with text that’s perhaps a projector that provides solid performance
W
hen one thinks of affordable front gloss black and includes a manual sliding lens tad too small, the Sharp’s OSD nevertheless and enough light output to handle larger
projector makers, a premium brand cover as well as a carrying handle, which might presents a full suite of picture and setup screen sizes.
like Sharp probably wouldn’t be one be of interest for those looking for an on-the- adjustments with adjustable slider bars and Look elsewhere if:
that immediately comes to mind, but with their go high definition presentation projector. numeric indicators for the various functions in you’re looking for shelf mounting, as the
XV-Z15000 single chip 1080p DLP model, it’s logically grouped sub-menus. While it won’t Sharp doesn’t provide lens shift and the
clear that Sharp is taking an aggressive stance FEATURES win any design awards, the OSD is straight- amount of vertical offset precludes back-of-
towards the segment. While marketed as a home theater projector, forward enough that even novices should be the-room placement on a shelf or stand.
The compact chassis is nicely finished in the Sharp includes portability options such able to navigate within it easily enough.

projectors
Iris 2 (Auto): Off projector’s feature set is sufficient, and that Ratings
specs/pricing
Lamp: Eco they will plan on ceiling mounting the unit (relative to comparably-priced projectors)
Detail Enhance: 0 anyway. overall picture quality (SD)
Brightness Boost: Off I’m impressed with the range of picture
Overscan: Off tuning adjustability, especially with respect to overall picture quality (HD)
the iris adjustments, which along with the high/ Pixel resolution: 1920 x 1080 
1:1 Mode: Yes 
BOTTOM LINE: low lamp modes should allow this projector to features
Sharp was the first home theater projector mate with just about any home theater-sized video, 1 composite, 1 RGB PC 
maker to pair with Texas Instruments to market screen and screen material type. The remote
connectivity Other connections: 1 RS-232C serial port

a 16:9 720p HD projector not quite 10 years is a disappointment, but backlit touchpad-type for external control 
user interface Dimensions (WxHxD): 15.8” x 4” x 13.8” 
ago (they were the developing partner with TI). system remotes abound that will take care of
Weight: 12.8 lb. 
Sharp’s DLP expertise is evident with the XV- that problem. All in all, the XV-Z15000 sensibly- value Warranty: 1 year, parts & labor (90 days on
Z15000, and while it is missing some features designed projector that provides a most the bulb) 
found on more expensive models such as pleasing picture at a very affordable price. TPV Price: $2,500
lens shift, I suspect that for most users the 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SHARP 
(800) 237-4277
www.sharpusa.com
PERFORMANCE

While the movie is sufficiently The Sharp doesn’t offer a color Lots of nighttime outdoor and The many dimly-lit scenes in the None noted.
sharp, the HD video making-of gamut choice that conforms to dark interior indoor scenes set film’s landmark locations are well
(Blu-Ray)
featurettes on Disc 2 feature the HDTV standard. So, at the the tone for the movie, and the defined, with shadowy details
The Da Vinci Code
many close-up shots of the vari- default color setting, things are Sharp does a good job, with no clearly visible.
(Extended Cut) ous props used and are sharp as overly rich, especially evident on crushed blacks in evidence.
a tack. skin tones.
Nice and crisp, as you would That somewhat extended color A nighttime NASCAR race is an Close-up shots of the pit crews None noted.
(Broadcast expect from a 1080p projector. palette has a tad too much over- ideal HD program for evaluating working their magic contain lots
HDTV) The on-screen HD graphics are emphasis at the default setting. blacks, and with the Sharp on Eco of shadowy details which the
NASCAR suitably sharp all the way out to Dialing down the color control (low lamp) and Iris 1 on High Sharp reproduces very well.
(ESPN2HD) the screen sides. a few notches puts the color Brightness, the Sharp puts out
saturation at a more realistic, good deep blacks with plenty of
believable level. punch on bright scenes.

projectors
Sony VPL-HW10 L
iquid Crystal on Silicon (LCoS) The road to hell is paved with good inten-
technology resides somewhere between tions, though, and when I tested the feature
LCD and DLP, where the former is a I noted a significant and detrimental byprod-
projector
transmissive type (i.e., light passes through uct; namely, a decidedly pink tinge added to
the panel) while the latter is reflective (i.e., light detailed whites and grays that I could see with
is reflected off the panel surface). LCoS is a both test patterns as well as program material.
hybrid of the two, combining both transmissive Sony confirmed that with the panel conver-
and reflective properties, and promises both gence feature disabled, the obnoxious bubble-
David Birch-Jones high contrast (good deep blacks) and full- gum pink tinge disappears, and indeed that
time imaging (no spinning color wheelСa was the case.
component of single-chip DLP systems).
Sony is one of the two main proponents of Connectivity
LCoS (JVC being the other), and brands its Connections are arrayed down one side of
LCoS technology as SXRD, found here in the the lower chassis (curiously, JVC, Sony’s main
affordable Bravia VPL-HW10 3-panel 1080p competitor in the LCoS projector arena, does
projector that’s the subject of this review. the same), with dual HDMI inputs, and single
component, S-video and composite inputs,
Features rounded out with a PC VGA input that allows
The optical system includes the requisite zoom up to 1280x768 analog RGB signals (although
and focus, manually operated, along with with a suitable adapter that input can also
horizontal and vertical lens shift, also manu- accept up to 1920x1080i analog component
ally operated. Unlike some other models so
equipped, the Bravia’s manual adjustments are
more finely granulated, allowing precision dial-
in at setup, and the two lens shift adjustments
are completely independent of one another.
overview
The Sony’s three SXRD imaging panels Consider this Projector if:
are precisely aligned at the factory, and the you’re looking for a solid performer from a
convergence even at screen corners is quite proven brand with a great track record in
tight (perhaps a half-pixel off alignment at the front projectors and don’t mind the quite
most, which is very good and virtually un- affordable price tag.
noticeable at a reasonable viewing distance). Look elsewhere if:
Even so, Sony has equipped the VPL-HW10 you’re looking to go the anamorphic
with a panel convergence adjustment feature, widescreen route, as the VPL-HW10
which operates not by physically adjusting lacks the requisite vertical stretch scaling
the panels, but rather by sophisticated video function.
processing trickery.

projectors
signals). An RS-232C port allows connection a good thing for a front projector. The cursor
to an external controller. keypad is easy to use, and the remote features
three preset and three user picture memory
USER INTERFACE buttons—just the ticket for setting up custom
On Screen Display modes such as daytime and nighttime memory
Rather ordinary, in that the VPL-HW10 settings. There are no direct input buttons,
isn’t equipped with Sony’s excellent cross however, so you’ll have to toggle through the
media bar (XMB) interface as found on their six inputs.
PlayStation3, Blu-ray players, AVRs, and
some Bravia TVs. The interface is nonetheless RECOMMENDED
SETTINGS
serviceable, with blue and black background Color 50
color options. The nomenclature font size is Tint 50
a tad on the small side, but is still reasonably Sharpness 5
legible at a normal viewing distance—perhaps HD size (pixel-to-pixel) Overscan Off
less so from the back of the room during Color Temperature Low
setup, though. Gamma 1
Pic Mode Cinema
Remote Control Advanced Iris Manual
Sony remote control designs run the gamut Black Level Adjust Off
from quite good (their latest Bravia TV designs) Color Space Normal
to the execrable (the PS3’s optional media RCP Off
remote). Here, they provide a simple basic Wide Mode Full
design, which includes backlighting—always Panel Alignment Off
PERFORMANCE
Although the Sony offers panel The projector’s Normal color Very good blacks, a hallmark of An after-hours campaign meeting None noted.
alignment controls, it’s easy to palette just about exactly LCoS projectors. Using the lower in the dimly illuminated camera
(Blu-Ray)
get everything tuned in perfectly, matches the HDTV standard, and lamp setting improves deep shop reveals the film racks in the
Milk with no color fringing at all. the Sony provides natural flesh blacks, but still provides plenty of shadows, with no black crush.
tones without embellishment. brightness.
(Broadcast Close-ups of the players’ uni- Even under harsh nighttime The Chicago White Sox bright Fans at field level behind home None noted.
HDTV) forms shows crisp detail, and the ballpark lighting, close-ups of the white uniforms with black ac- plate are in the shadows, but are
Major League on-screen graphics are sharp as players show proper skin tones. cents are reproduced with rich, easily discernable.
Baseball a tack. inky black details.
(WGN)

projectors
Bottom Line: Ratings

Given its affordable price tag, one might expect
that the Sony is missing some key features
or functions, but this latest Bravia seems to overall picture quality (HD)
have just about everything most home theater
fans are looking for (with the exception of features
the missing anamorphic scaling mode). With
sufficient brightness to handle larger screen connectivity

sizes, the Sony’s adjustable aperture control
and low lamp mode combine to allow just the
user interface

right amount of brightness while delivering very value
good deep blacks. The sleek cabinetry looks
great, and even on the higher lamp setting,
the projector runs at a barely audible, whisper- 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
quiet level. All in all, this latest Bravia
1080p SXRD projector is a great performer,
and a very good value. TPV
specs/pricing
1:1 Mode: Yes
1 S-video, 1 composite, 1 RGB PC (up to
SXGA)
Other connections: 1 RS-232C serial port
for external control
Dimensions (WxHxD): 16.1” x 7.1” x 18.4”
Weight: 22.1 lb.
Warranty: 2 years parts & labor (90 days on
the bulb)
Price: $3,500
Sony
(877) 865-7669
www.sony.com


PROJECTION SCREENS:
Choosing A Projection Screen
David Birch-Jones
A
s the other half of a front projection
system, the screen contributes as
much to picture quality as the projector
itself does.
Back when CRT-based front projectors were
de rigueur for a top end home theater system,
their limited light output demanded great care
in screen sizing and material choice, in order
to get the maximum amount of brightness
directed back toward the prime viewing area.
Now that bulb-based front projectors
dominate the market, their abundance of light
output means that traditional white screen
types can be eschewed in favor of newer,
lower gain materials, that attenuate the
projector’s brightness somewhat in order to
achieve blacker blacks.
TECHNOLOGIES TO CONSIDER
Screen Color and Gain
White screen materials with unity (1.0) or
moderate (1.3) gain are often the preferred
solution in applications where there is total
light control within the room. “Total light
control” means no extraneous light leaking
in from doorways, windows and the like,
as well as the incorporation of darker room
surface colors (and non-reflective materials)

PROJECTION SCREENS:
What You Need To Know Before Choosing A Projection Screen
throughout. To see how the color and there’s some rejection of light coming back to very high ambient light environment. combo that’s always there, day and night,
gain of various screen materials can affect the screen from off axis. Paint-On Screens whether exhibiting images or not. A drop-down
performance in various room settings, let’s If you’re put off by the high cost of obtaining a screen might be advantageous when daytime
consider several examples drawn from the Gray Screen/Moderate (1.3) Gain deluxe name-brand screen material (and have aesthetics come into play, and there are drop-
catalogs of Stewart Filmscreen and other Stewart’s most popular residential screens a do-it-yourself streak), consider Goo Systems’ down screens that combine designer fascias
popular screen makers. are made of their FireHawk material, which line of paint-your-own-screen kits. Combining (Stewart’s Cabaret is but one example) that
combines a gray background color that a base (reflective) coat and a separate top hide the motorized roll-up mechanism behind a
White Screen/Unity (1.0) Gain provides some attenuation of the projector’s (diffusion) coat, you can create a screen right designer-inspired bezel. Other hide-the-screen
With a unity (1.0) gain white screen, light light output to deepen black levels, and at the on your existing wall, and from start to finish options include motorized drop-down systems
from the projector is dispersed evenly in all same time features moderate (1.3) gain for the whole job takes only a couple of hours. As designed for installation in a soffit, keeping
directions. An example of a screen material improved brightness in the prime viewing area with the conventional screen manufacturers, the room’s daytime aesthetics intact, yet
with such properties would be Stewart along with some attenuation of ambient light Goo Systems offers a choice of white, gray allowing the full impact of evening viewing of a
Filmscreen’s recently released StudioTek 100 that arrives at the screen from other angles. with some gain, darker gray with a bit of gain, blockbuster movie on the big screen.
material, which provides true Lambertian and darker gray with sub-gain (attenuation).
distribution. Stewart cautions, however, that White Screen/High (2.0) Gain For a typical residential screen size (130” Screens with or without Variable Masking
the StudioTek 100 material isn’t for everybody, In rooms where there’s little or no light control, diagonal or less), the cost of the kit is under With anamorphic widescreen (2.40:1) setups,
as any extraneous light from the screen that is going with a higher gain screen can help $230, a tenth of what a deluxe pre-fab screen screen makers offer variable masking, which
subsequently reflected back from the room’s maintain good contrast at the prime viewing and frame would cost from the name-brand partitions off unused screen area for viewing
interior surfaces will result in reduced contrast, area. Stewart’s UltraMatte 200 (2.0 gain) is just screen makers. regular widescreen (16:9) and standard
grayish blacks and seriously impaired shadow such a material, and with its comparably high definition (4:3) content. Side masking variants
detail. The material is also not suitable for gain it can provide increased brightness along IMPORTANT FEATURES cover unused screen areas via the use of
curved screens, as some light from a bright with superior ambient light rejection. But, the Flat or Curved Screens motorized masking that unfurls from the
scene portion at one side of the screen can trade-off is greatly diminished brightness off- Flat screens dominate the market, but more screen edges, while drop-down widescreens
reach the other screen side and reduce axis along with some notable hot-spotting, so makers are now offering curved screens, can be configured with masking that unfurls
contrast there if it’s displaying a darkly lit this material type isn’t for everybody. which help preserve sharpness at the screen’s from above. For the ultimate in screen aspect
portion of the overall image. extremities (as the distance from the lens to ratio masking versatility, a frame system that
High Contrast Screens the screen is equidistant over the entire screen provides both vertical and horizontal masking
White Screen/Moderate (1.3) Gain For rooms with no light control at all, and area), and add an extra dimensionality to the is the way to go—features you will find, for
Stewart’s StudioTek 130 material provides where daytime viewing is desirable, there are aesthetic. Most of these are of the widescreen example, in Stewart’s Director Series screens
moderate (1.3) gain, with a neutral white new generation high contrast screens that (2.40:1) very wide aspect ratio type, and (along with breathtaking price tags, though).
surface. Viewers seated on axis in the prime provide maximum ambient light rejection. Two Stewart’s CineCurve and dnp’s Epic are
viewing area get a brighter picture than viewers excellent examples are Screen Innovations’ examples of the genre.
off to the sides, and the moderate gain (which Black Diamond II material, and dnp’s
is at the upper limit for gain, beyond which hot- Supernova screen, both of which excel at Fixed or Drop-Down Screens
spotting can become a problem) ensures that providing an eminently watchable picture in a A fixed screen is just that—a frame and screen

New Projection Screens On The Horizon
Da-Lite has introduced a new variant of their acclaimed JKP Affinity

HD screen (reviewed in this Guide), co-developed with video guru Joe
Kane. The new material, which is optimized for 1080p projectors, now
features a lower (0.6) gain compared to the original (and still available)
0.9 gain screen. While designed for the Hollywood post-production
community, the new screen will also find favor with home theater
aficionados who want the best deep black reproduction.
Elite Screens now offers a motorized roll-down 2.35:1 widescreen

to appeal to the growing number of front projection enthusiasts who
want to watch their favorite Hollywood blockbuster in its original
widescreen aspect ratio. The CineTension2 is equipped with both IR
and RF control capability in addition to hard-wired and low volt trigger
control functionality, and is tab-tensioned for optimum screen flatness.
Screen Innovations has added a new curved screen option

to their line of Black Diamond II high contrast screens; the curved
screen helps prevent pincushion distortion when paired with short-
throw projectors. The curved look also adds an authentic movie theater
aesthetic, and is available in anamorphic widescreen aspect ratios.
Stewart Filmscreen: Venerable screen maker Stewart Filmscreen

adds a new reference screen material, StudioTek 100, to their extensive
portfolio. Designed to mimic a true white Lambertian surface, the
StudioTek 100 is optimized for reference control rooms, post-production
screening rooms, and home theaters where light control is 100%
optimized (that means no extraneous light impinging into the space, and
total control—as in, absorption—of extraneous light within the space).
The material is both THX and ISF certified. They’ve also recently added
LED lighting accent options to their Cabaret motorized roll-down system,
which provides a stylish bezel in lieu of an industrial-looking screen
housing. Their deluxe CineCurve variable aspect ratio widescreen, which
features motorized side masking, is now available in a slimmer profile
version that trims a half-foot off the enclosure’s width, allowing greater
installation flexibility in tight spots.


projection screens
go to: projectors | flat panel TVs
Da-Lite JKP W
hile new and improved front studio in Los Angeles confirmed my earlier
projector models appear almost enthusiastic impressions, and when he played
weekly, the development of new scenes from the recently released Baraka ultra-
Affinity
front-projection screen materials occurs at high resolution Blu-ray disc, I was blown away.
a much more leisurely pace. Da-Lite’s debut This film, shot entirely in large format 65mm
of their new Affinity HD Progressive screen and mastered for Blu-ray with highest resolu-
HD Progressive
material, rolled out at trade shows last tion 8K telecine technology, is chockfull of liter-
summer and fall, caused quite a stir as this ally breathtaking imagery from start to finish—if
new type was co-developed with Joe Kane, you don’t have this disc in your collection, you
perhaps our industry’s most noted video simply can’t know what Blu-ray is capable of.
guru, and this was his first collaboration with
David Birch-Jones veteran screenmaker Da-Lite.
Kane approached Da-Lite to develop a
better-performing screen for the broadcast and
post-production industry, as he was becom-
overview
ing increasingly dissatisfied with current screen Consider this Projection Screen if:
offerings. The current crop of screen materials, you’re looking to achieve true studio-quality
supposedly optimized for 1080p high-definition big screen imaging—this new Da-Lite
projectors, exhibited too many noticeable arti- material is truly neutral and artifact-free and
facts that he felt impeded critical viewing during will bring out the very best of your high-
HD disc and program mastering in the demand- definition front projection setup.
ing post-production studio environment. Look elsewhere if:
With stunning speed, Da-Lite developed a your front projection setup is in a room that
new material that met Kane’s exacting require- isn’t light-controlled—best results will only
ments, taking just four weeks to do so—a be achieved in a properly light-controlled
remarkably quick development and production environment. Other screen material types
gestation. I was highly impressed with Kane’s are better optimized for viewing in conditions
demo at CEDIA, where (of course) the new HD where ambient light can’t be tamed.
Pro screen was paired with the Samsung SP-
A800B 1080p DLP projector, another Joe Kane
Productions co-development. The images I Ratings
saw there were of best-in-show quality, made
all the more remarkable given that the pricing
of the projector/screen combo is only about value
$12,000—a bargain when you’re talking state-
of-the-art HD front projection.
A recent visit to Joe Kane’s home theater 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

projection screens
Bottom Line: screen is priced competitively with other

Da-Lite and Joe Kane have struck a home premium screens; it’s actually a pretty good
run here with the JKP Affinity HD Pro material value given its outstanding performance. TPV
and as more Hollywood broadcast studio
and post-production houses upgrade their
projection screens (word is already spreading
like wildfire), we’ll be seeing the benefits in
improved HD picture quality down the road.
specs/pricing
Indeed, we already have one prime example— Gain/Color: .9 gain, gray color
the Baraka Blu-ray disc was first check- Price: $1,898 (for 16:9 100” diagonal on
standard Da-Lite fixed frame)
screened at Joe’s home theater studio on the
HD Pro screen, and subtle defects that weren’t Da-Lite
noticeable at the post-production house led (800) 622-3737
to the film being thoroughly re-mastered as www.dalite.com
a result. Though not cheap, the new Da-Lite
PERFORMANCE
This Blu-ray title takes the top Absolutely gorgeous, with so As you would expect, Joe Kane’s A scene of a modern chicken None noted, and that’s what
honors as the most breathtaking- many standout scenes in this home theater studio is properly coop has the forward ele- is so noteworthy about this
ly sharp high-definition movie out remarkable film, such as the fires light controlled, which allows ments brightly lit, while the screen material—the screen
there, and during the preparation of Kuwait after the 1992 Desert the best blacks you can imagine, ceiling above is very dark, and itself becomes invisible—all you
(Blu-ray) for the Blu-ray release, the Da- Storm invasion, as well as the exemplified again during the the Da-Lite/Samsung combo can see is the image, which is as
Baraka Lite HD Pro/Samsung SP-A800B intricately woven and colorful Kuwaiti oil fires scenes. lets me easily see details in the it should be.
setup at Joe Kane’s home theater fabrics of peoples from numerous trusswork.
studio was used for critical evalu- foreign lands in other scenes—a
ation of test pressings prior to revelatory viewing experience.
the disc’s release.
Crisp and clean, with no screen- Rich yet natural, the Da-Lite is A scene with the various at- That same scene reveals details None noted, and none expected
(Broadcast related artifacts to impinge on completely neutral color-wise, torneys in a conference room of the conference room sur- either.
the HD image, which lets me so bright whites are pure and has them all dressed in black and roundings which are intention-
HDTV)
see all of the fine details of the untainted, and the various ac- dark gray suits, sitting on black ally shadowy, and it’s easy to
Boston Legal various attorneys’ suits. tors’ skin tones are natural and leather chairs, which the Da-Lite/ make out dark details.
(ABC) believable. Samsung combo presents with
excellent black definition.

projection screens
B
ased in Denmark, dnp is the screen higher-gain material is only currently available
dnp Supernova OnE

making subsidiary of printing giant Dai as a fixed frame type (but a roll-up high-gain
Nippon Printing, a corporate behemoth material is currently in development). The
that is the largest printing company in the low-gain screen is also available in dnp’s new
world. Dai Nippon has been in the screen deluxe Epic curved screen that features motor-
David Birch-Jones business a long time, and is the dominant ized side masking to handle multiple aspect
maker of rear projection screens, which ratios, up to 2.40:1, with compatible projectors
employ a lenticular/Fresnel lens combination. and anamorphic lenses.
Aided by their extensive experience in the The low-gain Supernova screen in the train-
lithographic printing industry, dnp developed ing room is their Flex model, a motorized roll-
new multi-layer optical lamination technology up screen that is distinguished by an elegant
that provides both high ambient light rejection curved facia that hides the mechanicals and
as well as maintaining the overall picture screen roller. The material is flexible enough
quality provided by conventional front that when unfurled it is as flat as a conven-
projection screens. tional tab-tensioned drop-down screen, and
As dnp’s U.S. subsidiary wasn’t able to sup- the Flex features a thin-wire tensioning system
ply us with review samples by our deadline, I that is all but invisible from a normal seating
instead arranged to meet with their head hon- distance.
cho, Manfred Freiberger, at their new facilities Once the projector and Blu-ray player was
in Los Angeles and brought with me a 1080p set up, I fired up my Konica-Minolta color ana-
DLP projector, a Samsung Blu-ray player, lyzer, and put up a 100 IRE white window test
and my test equipment, as they had only just pattern. I had previously calibrated the projec-
moved to new office and warehouse space tor for use with one of my reference screens
and were still in the process of putting it all at home (Stewart Filmscreen’s Joe Kane-
together—in short, they hadn’t yet completed approved GrayHawk RS) and was curious to
their home theater demonstration room. see if the Supernova introduced any color shift.
There, I was able to set my projector and In an instant, the analyzer reported a virtually
player up in the training room, where we did perfect 6490-degree Kelvin result with the Su-
the testing and evaluation. The Supernova pernova, confirming that it is indeed possible
screen is available in two versions, a low- to have a high-contrast screen that is color-
gain (.8), wide viewing angle type, as well as neutral (old-style high contrast screens tended
a higher-gain (2.0) but more narrow viewing to have an excessive shift towards blue that
angle version. seriously impaired the overall color fidelity).
Before we got to watching actual program
Supernova’s Low Gain material, Manfred ran through a quick dem-
At the moment, the lower-gain type is available onstration, comparing the Supernova mate-
in both fixed frame and roll-up types, while the rial against a conventional white screen type.

projection screens
Using a flashlight, he aimed the beam from a

high angle above both screen types, simulating
light coming from a track lighting fixture. With
the white screen material, the reflected beam
was easily visible, even in the very brightly lit
training room. As he moved the flashlight over
the Supernova material, the beam’s intensity
diminished dramatically—it was indeed visible,
but ever so much less so than with the white
screen material.
Supernova’s HIGH Gain

The Supernova high-gain material is designed
for situations with high ambient light condi-
tions, and features more gain (2.0) to direct
the most light back to the viewer. Darker in
appearance than typical gray screen materials,
the high-gain Supernova features the same
shimmer-free surface of its low-gain sibling,
and while a flexible version is in development
that will allow roll-up and curved very-wide-
screen options, for now it’s only available in
fixed-frame styles.
At the time of my visit, dnp only had high-
gain Supernova versions in a modest 45-inch
diagonal size at their facility—a size that would
PERFORMANCE
Source Detail Color Blacks Viewing angle
No loss of detail with the Supernova Shifting the projector slightly sideways Celine sings “Seduces Me” while wear- While the factory specification of 20
high-gain material. Easy to see the glit- lets me see part of the image on the ing a lacy black dress, with fabric details degrees suggests that the viewing angle
(Blu-ray) ter in her eye make-up in the opening high-gain screen with the other part on clearly visible. During a close-up shot, I would be restrictively narrow, I found
Celine Dion— number, along with the intricate details the lower-gain material. Except for the can easily see the dark gray brand label that I could go at least 30 degrees off-
A New Day of her black gown which is accented expected brightness difference of the on her jet black microphone (it’s a side without noticing significant fall-off.
with shimmering black jewels. high-gain screen, the color quality is es- Sennheiser). The color quality held up well too.
sentially the same—rich and natural.

projection screens
not be large enough for a typical home theater, BOTTOM LINE

but was fine for our test purposes. As my host For high ambient lighting conditions, the high-
Manfred Freiberger noted, in addition to target- gain Supernova can’t be beat. It has the same
ing the residential market, the Supernova line great color accuracy as its low-gain sibling
also appeals to commercial and corporate cus- and a surprisingly wider viewing angle than the
tomers (boardrooms, conference rooms, and specification suggests. Presently only available
the like), so dnp offers a wide range of sizes. in fixed-frame models, the factory is developing
We set up the screen on a table in front of a flexible version for dnp’s motorized roll-down
the low-gain Flex screen, and after I adjusted offerings that may appear on the market later
the projector to match the smaller screen size, this year (and will also be available with dnp’s
I again took a snapshot of the white balance ultra-deluxe Epic motorized masking curved
with my color analyzer and was astonished screen). TPV
to find that the high-gain screen material had
virtually the same near-ideal result, coming in
at 6390 degrees Kelvin.
Once again, we looked and compared the
various screen types with the overhead flash-
specs/pricing
light trick, and it easily showed the higher-gain 100-inch diagonal 16:9 fixed frame
Supernova material’s superior light rejection high-gain version
Price: $3889
capability, compared to the lower-gain type.
While the factory quotes a quite narrow 20 de- dnp
grees viewing angle for the high-gain material, I (714) 545-2711
would have guessed a much wider 60 degrees, www.dnp.dk
before I noted the expected fall-off when view-
ing from the side.
I then measured the light output of the
screen, and while I was expecting a fairly high
number given the much smaller screen size,
I wasn’t expecting to get an astonishing 102
foot-Lamberts reading. Clearly, the Supernova
high-gain material is directing much more light
to a tighter viewing area, and I calculated that
with a 100-inch size, the screen would return a
healthy 20 or so foot-Lamberts.

projection screens
SCREEN J
ust five years old, Austin, Texas-based The smaller size of the review sample allows
Screen Innovations recently introduced me to set it up on stands directly in front of my
its latest high-contrast screen model, reference 78-inch screen (a Stewart GrayHawk
INNOVATIONS
the Black Diamond. Manufactured in its Austin RS) so that I can shift the projector slightly and
facility, the screen features multiple layers get a good side-by-side comparison between
of laminated optical material on a flexible the two.
BLACK DIAMOND
background that permits the screen to be Once everything is set up, I check the
rolled up into a tube for easy shipment. The light output from the Black Diamond with a
frame consists of two horizontal and two 100 percent white field test pattern, and the
vertical components that are easily assembled analyzer reports a value of 42 foot-Lamberts.
in much the same fashion as a standard That’s about as bright as a 60-inch plasma
David Birch-Jones metal picture frame. Flexible vinyl “wings” are flat panel is capable of putting out, suggest-
attached to the screen material, and these are ing that a 100-inch version would provide a
pressed into slot channels with plastic bars reasonable 12 foot-Lamberts with a typical
on all sides. It only took me about a half-hour 300W projector.
from start to finish to put it all together, and With my test patterns and test HD clips,
when it was all done, the screen material itself I can clearly see a watchable image on the
was suitably flat and properly tensioned. Black Diamond, even when I turn up the track-
The review sample’s nearly black screen lighting that is just overhead. While I can still
surface together with the elegant wood- see an image on my Stewart screen, it’s quite
accented frame with black velvet screen trim obviously washed-out and pale, whereas with
gives the screen a look that is more reminis- the Black Diamond, it still looks bright and
cent of a luxury plasma flat panel than that of colorful.
a front projection screen.
Available in fixed-frame and roll-down mod-
els, the material is available in both low- and
high-gain versions. While we would have liked
to test both version of the Black Diamond,
specs/pricing
we were only able to get our hands on the 100-inch diagonal 16:9 fixed frame high
higher-gain version, which has a 1.4 gain and gain version
Price: $2597
an 88-degree viewing angle.
Note: Wood trim finishes are optional at
The review sample at 60 inches diagonal extra cost, as are velvet color choices.
is a tad smaller than most would prefer for a
home theater system, but Screen Innovations Screen Innovations
is targeting commercial users as well as home (512) 832-6939
theater customers and offers a range of sizes www.siscreens.com
up to 113 inches diagonal (16:9 aspect ratio).

projection screens
PERFORMANCE
source Detail Color Blacks Viewing angle
A close-up shot of a bronzed The color analyzer reports that the Easy to spot Captain Jack’s jet Screen Innovations quotes a ±44-de-
(Blu-ray) pirate skull medallion in the first screen is biased toward blue, but not black eyes and eye makeup, as the gree viewing angle for this screen,
chapter reveals all the detail of by much (about 800 degress Kelvin screen excels at maintaining deep which jives with my rough guesstimate
Pirates of the
the burnished metal, and looks away from the ideal D65 white point). blacks even when I bring up the by moving offside the screen center
Carribbean--The Curse the same as it does on my reference Even so, the ornate red and blue British room lighting. and looking for noticeable falloff. That’s
of The Black Pearl Stewart screen. naval uniforms look great, and various wide enough to ensure most viewers
actors’ skin tones look natural. will enjoy an acceptably bright picture.
BOTTOM LINE
The Black Diamond excels at light rejection,
and yet still has a respectably wide viewing an-
gle. The color quality is excellent, as is the de-
tail (Screen Innovations engineered the Black
Diamond to be compatible with ultra high
resolution digital cinema projectors that have
twice the detail of today’s 1080p home theater
projectors). And, that very slight shift towards
blue that I measured with the color analyzer is
something that’s easily fixed with a video cali-
bration. Compared to a typical premium front
projection screen, the Black Diamond is hardly
more expensive, and Screen Innovations offers
a variety of frame styles, finishes, and cosmet-
ic options. I think they’ve got another winner
with the Black Diamond. TPV
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GUIDE TO

FLAT PANEL TVs

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4 FLAT PANEL TVS AND PROJECTORS BUYER’S GUIDE www.avguide.com

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5 FLAT PANEL TVS AND PROJECTORS BUYER’S GUIDE www.avguide.com

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9 FLAT PANEL TVS AND PROJECTORS BUYER’S GUIDE www.avguide.com

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LG’s announcements at the CEDIA Expo 2009

Mistsubishi debuted 46” and 52” 1080p LCD

NuVision, a premium tier company that specializes

Panasonic previewed their 3D technology with

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Samsung, which is the world’s largest manufacturer of

Sony rolled out two premium LED edgelit models in their

Toshiba adds to their line of LED-backlit HDTVs with the

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LG 55LH90 LCD HDTV

wiTH LED Backlighting

David Birch-Jones Features

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LCD HDTV with

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Color 50 xvYCC Off (unless connected to an HD

specs/pricing incredibly slim cabinet depth of only 1.6 inches

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LCD HDTV with

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Sharpness 10 Bottom Line:

specs/pricing short of what plasma provides in this area. The

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LCD HDTV with

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reddish nor bluish). With the backlight at the Ratings

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compared to the rich, inky blacks and wide

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Regza LCD HDTV with

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