Panasonic PT-AX200U Projector is Dead-Finger Tech Choice

Panasonic PT-AX200U Projector is Dead-Finger Tech Choice

Robin Harris is a writer for ZDNet who loves his gadgets. He believes that you could never have too many electronics. Recently he released what he has chosen to be his favorite toy, the Panasonic PT-AX200U projector. This model features 2000 ANSI lumens, a 6000:1 contrast ratio, and HD (1280 x 720) resolution. Harris chose this projector as his ‘dead-finger’ choice because the display quality was just as amazing as his local movie theater. He also enjoys the sheer size of the screen, which makes his old 50’ big screen seem puny in comparison. The AX200U is capable of displaying up to a 200inch display from less than 25 ft away. The only problems that Harris had with the projector are its size, weight, and cost of a replacement lamp. However even with the problems he was so happy reviewing the projector that he decided to buy his own.

[via ZDNet]

AAXA P2 pico-projector: VGA input but just 35 mins battery

AAXA P2 pico-projector: VGA input but just 35 mins battery

AAXA have unveiled their new pico-projector, the P2, and at first glance there’s plenty to endear the palm-sized device.  The resolution gets a boost to 800 x 600 while brightness also climbs to 33 lumens; even better, there’s a standard VGA input along with the usual onboard media player, 1GB of integrated storage and microSD card slot.  Unfortunately, the thorn in the P2’s side is its battery life.

In fact, the 1,700mAh rechargeable battery is only good for 35 minutes use; for any longer, you’ll need to add an optional external battery which will be available in either 70 or 180 minute capacities.  They’ll obviously boost the P2’s 4.3 x 2.3 x 1 inch size and 260g weight.

AAXA are quoting contrast of 1,000:1 and up to an 80-inch image, with stereo 1W speakers and connectivity including a 3.5mm composite A/V port, miniUSB for recharging and a 3.5mm headphone socket, along with the VGA port.  We reviewed the P2’s predecessor, the AAXA P1 back in April.

The AAXA P2 pico-projector is available to pre-order now, priced at $349.

(Via SlashGear.)

WowWee Cinemin Swivel official preorders kick off at $350

WowWee Cinemin Swivel official preorders kick off at $350

WowWee’s Cinemin Swivel bendy pico-projector is now officially available for pre-order, only around two months since Amazon began accepting pre-orders themselves.  Announced back at CES, the Cinemin Swivel is capable of projecting a 60-inch (1.5m) image from over 8 feet (2m) away, and has a 90-degree hinge useful for squirting the picture out onto the ceiling without demanding you hold it.

There’s also a built-in 0.5W mono speaker and headphones output, while an integrated battery is good for up to 2hrs standalone use.  Any device with a video output is good to go, and WowWee include a USB charging cable, iPhone/iPod adapter and AV composite cables to get you started.

Tech specs confirm a meager brightness of 8 lumens and contrast ratio of 1,000:1, with 480 x 320 HVGA resolution.  The WowWee Cinemin Swivel is available to pre-order now, priced at $349.99 in the US or €350 in Europe.

(Via SlashGear.)

Vivitek H9080FD Projector Review

Vivitek H9080FD Projector Review

The Vivitek H9080FD projector is the company’s first LED based model. It comes with full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution, a 100000:1 contrast ratio, and 800 ANSI lumens. Recently, a writer from Trusted Reviews got the opportunity to test the H9080FD. The major concern that the writer had going into the review was that LED systems tend to be weak in the brightness department. After looking at the display, the writer thought that this model actually showed impressive brightness and a quality that outshined several leading competitors. The LED system also eliminated the rotating color wheel that is required for most DLP projectors. By eliminating the color wheel, the screen had no signs of a rainbow effect or any defects to the display. The writer was not expecting the image to be so clean, clear, and crisp. The only real concern that the writer made was minor and could easily be fixed with some simple calibration. The final verdict was, ‘Any doubts I may have had about LED’s potential as a true home cinema technology have been comprehensively trounced by the H9080FD. It’s a truly spectacular projector that can produce the sort of picture quality you never want to turn off. In fact, so good is this LED lighting debut that it’s hard to imagine how the technology could be improved for its next generation. Perhaps the best way I can convey just how good the H9080FD is, though, is by saying that even though it costs £10,995, in my book it’s actually something of a bargain.’

[via Trusted Reviews]

Anthem Releases LXT 300 and LXT 500 Projectors

Anthem Releases LXT 300 and LXT 500 Projectors

Anthem Electronics is a leading Manufacturer of high-end electronics for music, home theater, and distributed audio systems. Today, the company has announced the release of two new high-performance LCoS projectors. The LTX 300 and LTX 500 both feature full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution and can project images up to 200 inches. The 300 model comes with 1000 ANSI lumens and a 30000:1 contrast ratio, while the 500 will display only 900 ANSI lumens, but produce a 50000:1 contrast ratio. Both projectors come with dual HDMI ports as well as a component, s-video, and RGB/component connection. The 500 also comes with a 12V trigger for motorized curtains or screens. Another bonus that comes with the 500 is that it is THX certified. Unfortunately the retail prices for these two projectors have not been released yet, but they are available now through the company’s certified retailers.

[via Engadget]

Icon Mini PC carries a projector and DVD

Icon Mini PC carries a projector and DVD

Winner of the Cando Design awards, the ‘Icon MINI PC’ by Iranian designer Kiomars Nezhadi is one of the smallest but functional PCs that present a leaf shaped sleek appearance. This highly technical and portable unit uses a Micro ATX main board with most of the parts onboard, maintaining its relatively small size (227 mm height and 294 mm width). The system uses heat pipes to cool the processor, graphic chips and projector without creating any noise from the fans. The attractive aspect of the design is its rotational touchscreen monitor placed on its main part, which is further equipped with audio and USB ports and a detachable hard disk.

NEC Releases NP4100 and NP4100W Projectors in Middle East

NEC Releases NP4100 and NP4100W Projectors in Middle East

NEC has announced recently that they are releasing two new projectors into the Middle East, the NP4100 and the NP4100W. Both projectors feature the same 2100:1 contrast ratio and DLP display technology. The NP4100 also features a native XGA (1024 x 768) resolution and 6200 ANSI lumens, while the NP4100W features 5500 ANSI lumens, and a WXGA (1280 x 800) resolution with a 16:10 aspect ratio. The main feature about these projectors is that it ca be mounted vertically for a tall display instead of a typical long display. Both models come with a wide variety of connections, including 5BNC, RGB, DVI-D, component, composite, s-video, and several audio ports. Also included is a dual 3 watt stereo system that’s loud enough for any boardroom or classroom. Both the NP4100 and NP4100W are currently available through NEC certified retailers however; the retail price for the Middle East has not been released.

[via AME]

Optoma GT-7000 Projector Review

Optoma GT-7000 Projector Review

The Optoma GT-7000 projector one of the company’s projectors designed for gamers. It features HD (1280 x 720) resolution, a 4000:1 contrast ratio, and 1600 ANSI lumens. Recently, the writers from Stuff.tv released their review of the GT-7000. The first thing the writers mention is the overall good value. The projector is low cost and comes with a wide array of features and specs that make for a quality machine. The writers were also impressed with the included speaker system that also comes with a iPod docking station. One problem that many people face is finding a quality portable projector that can match quality sound with the display. Fortunately, the 7000 can do this with their 2.1 stereo system. The writers were very impressed with the fact that even though the 7000 is designed for game consoles, it also does remarkably well with movies. The only concerns that the writers noticed was that the picture could have had more ANSI lumens, and they were able to spot the rainbow effect, which is a common problem for DLP projectors. However, the writers concluded by saying, ‘Our last moan about the GT-7000 is that its speaker system is really pretty feeble. There’s precious little bass, nowhere near enough volume to produce a sound comparable in size to the king-sized pictures on show, and finally lots of distortion tends to set in when the going gets tough. Probably the best thing we can say about the GT-7000’s audio is that it’s better than nothing. Just.’

[via Stuff.tv]

1080p pico-projectors in next 3 years tips Syndiant CTO

1080p pico-projectors in next 3 years tips Syndiant CTO

Whether you think a pico-projector is a pointless gadget or the future of mobile displays, the common criticism is that their resolution is poor compared to cellphone displays or full-sized projectors.  Over at PicoProjector.info they’ve been speaking to Syndiant CTO Karl Guttag, however, and he’s promising something that could turn that all around: 1920 x 1080p resolution pico-modules.

Much of the interview is tussle back and forth over whether the LCOS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) technology preferred by Syndiant is better than LBS (Laser-Beam-Steering) as used by rival firms, but there are several interesting tidbits for those of us who simply want a decent pico-projector.  Mass production of Syndiant’s 854 x 600 pixel projector unit is about to begin, and Guttag expects 720p/1080p versions within the next few years.

That’s a little longer for 1080p than the ‘volume production in 2010″ that their website suggests, but according to Guttag the company is ‘re-evaluating where we prioritize the development of the 1080p for pico projectors.’  Instead, cellphone projectors could top out at 720p, he suggests, at least in the next three years, while 1080p would be more likely on video games, PMPs and cameras.

(Via SlashGear.)

Vivitek to shake up HD projector market with 1080p H1080FD at $999

Vivitek to shake up HD projector market with 1080p H1080FD at $999Sophomore slump? Fuhgetaboutit. After announcing its very first projectors last year with little to no fanfare at all, Vivitek is looking to get everyone's attention with an all new 1080p model that should hit US retail outlets this August. If all goes well, the company's H1080FD will hit just before CEDIA kicks off, and it'll be based on Texas Instruments' S450 chip / light-engine design with Dark Chip II technology. Other specs include 1,800 lumens of brightness, a 5,000:1 contrast ratio, a pair of HDMI ports, composite / S-Video / component inputs, an RS-232c control connector and a 12v trigger -- in other words, even the so-called AV junkie should find plenty to adore. If you're curious just how big of a deal this is in the sector, just have a look at how stoked Sanyo was to introduce an entry-level 1080p beamer 11 months ago at twice this price.


[Via AboutProjectors]

Viewsonic Releases 3D Projectors in Australia and New Zealand

Viewsonic Releases 3D Projectors in Australia and New Zealand

A few months ago at InfoComm, Viewsonic announced three new projectors that would be releasing shortly, the PJD6381, PJD6211, and PJD6221. Today, the company has announced that all three projectors are now available on the Australian and New Zealand markets. What makes these projectors stand out is that they will be the country’s first 3D projectors to be available for consumer use.

The PJD5281 features 2500 ANSI lumens, a 2500:1 contrast ratio, and a native XGA (1024 x 768) resolution. Other than the 3D capabilities, this projector comes with an ultra-short throw distance that comes with a 0.68:1 throw ratio. Also the projector will have network capability thanks to a RJ-45 LAN connection.

The PJD6211 and PJD6221 are virtually identical, both features XGA (1024 x 768) resolution, a 2800:1 contrast ratio, and 2700 ANSI lumens. The connection panel includes a composite, s-video, and a VGA port. The PJD6221 has a step up and comes with a RJ-45 LAN port, while the PJD6211 does not.

[via Smart House]

BenQ Joybee GP1 Projector Review

BenQ Joybee GP1 Projector Review

Everyone has heard about the BenQ Joybee GP1 by now. This tiny projector features 100 ANSI lumens, a 2000:1 contrast ratio, and SVGA (858 x 600) resolution. The most recent website to release a review is Register Hardware. The writers were very impressed with the fact that you could easily carry an 80 inch display in your bag. Weighing only 1.4 lbs, and measuring 4.7’ x 2.0’ x 5.1’ (W x H x D) this projector can go anywhere you want to go. The major benefit with the GP1 is the use of an LED light system. Not only does this allow the projector to consume less energy, but it also lasts for an extended period of time. The GP1 is designed more for entertainment than business, however it does come with a full menu system containing feature found in several BenQ data projectors like image alignment and wall color correction. While the projector does look to good to be true, it is not without its problems. The major concern is the size of the included power adapter. This brick is about the same size as the projector and at least twice as heavy. Another problem the writers noticed was the credit card sized remote control. The remote did not have a backlight and was very difficult to use when the room was pitch black. The final verdict the writers made was, ‘If portability isn’t your main reason for choosing a projector, then there are many other options available for under £500 such as Optoma’s HD700X which is HD Ready and still portable at around twice the size of the GP1. Indeed, priced at £420, the GP1 is hardly an impulse purchase and is not without its faults, but it offers a lot for the money and is much cheaper to run than a conventional projector. Yet with the emphasis is on fun and portability, rather than home theatre or boardroom presentations, the Joybee GP1 Mini Projector packs a lot of big screen entertainment into a very small package.’

[via Register Hardware]

Barco Installs 1000th Digital Projector in China

Barco Installs 1000th Digital Projector in China

Barco is a global leader in digital cinema technology. Today they announced that they have completed their 1000th digital cinema projector installation in China. Barco has been working closely together with GDC Technology to provide one-stop digital cinema solutions to exhibitors. ‘China has always been at the forefront in digital innovation. Already in 2006, Barco signed a historic deal with Dadi Digital Cinemas and we have a market share of more than 80% in China’, says Alain Solomon, VP of Barco’s Digital Cinema business. ‘Our Chinese customers especially value our reliability and low total cost of ownership, resulting from the modular design and use of standard lamps in our projector design.’ Some of the projectors that Barco has used for the digital installations include their DP Series, which contains the DP-3000, DP-2000, DP-1500, and DP-1200. All of these projectors feature a 2000:1 contrast ratio, DLP display technology and a 2K HD (2048 x 1080) resolution.

[via Barco]

BeamBox Essential G2 projector is tiny, available for pre-order

BeamBox Essential G2 projector is tiny, available for pre-order

Remember when 190 grams felt feathery light? BeamBox wasn't satisfied with that, and has put its pocket projector on a strict diet, cutting its weight all the way down to 75 grams. The Essential G2 promises VGA resolution on up to a 73-inch projection, though we'd expect the listed 20 lumens to produce usable images closer to 7.3-inches. Alas, you have to expect sacrifices when moving to such miniature dimensions. USB connectivity takes care of both power and image source, though there's 1GB of integrated memory if you don't feel like lugging a comparatively monolithic laptop or netbook along. If this has piqued your interest, a remote control comes as part of the deal and pre-orders are being taken now -- £220, $250 or €240, depending on your local currency -- with general availability set for July 29.

Gallery: BeamBox Essential G2

(Via Engadget.)

Canon LV-7275 Projector

Canon LV-7275 Projector

Canon knows that times are hard for just about anybody and everybody, which is why they have come up with a new projector that dips below the $1,000 price point - the LV-7275. It might roll out a 1,024 x 768 resolution image, but boasts 2,600 lumens - which makes it unusually bright for such a category, making it suitable for use in a room with existing light. Features include DVI and VGA connectivity, RCA input, VGA output and an Ethernet jack. You're stuck with a 1.2X zoom lens though, giving you little room to move about outside of typical situations. Interested parties can pick up the Canon LV-7275 for $999 sometime this August.

Canon LV-7275 computer projector offers affordability

Canon LV-7275 computer projector offers affordability

Canon introduced a new projector today meant for use with computers called the LV-7275 that actually falls beneath the $1,000 price point and offers a 1,024 x 768 resolution with 2,600 lumens.

This means you can actually use the projector in a room that has normal lights on. It doesn’t have to be dimmed. It also has VGA and DVI inputs, allowing you to connect to old and new computers, alike.

Other inputs include Ethernet and RCA. It has a 1.2X zoom lens, which isn’t much but for the price, it’s pretty good. Other features include automatic color adjustment and whiteboard mode. You can get the Canon LV-7275 next month for $999.

(Via SlashGear.)

MiLi Pro iPhone projector

MiLi Pro iPhone projector

Yesterday we showed you the 557 x 234 resolution touting, $670+ price tag sporting iJector iPhone projector and shrugged it off as nothing more than an overpriced peripheral.

Well, the MiLi Pro iPhone projector isn't much better, but it definitely is better. This LED projector will feature a 640x480 resolution, and the ability to project an image up to 70 inches. However, the manufacturers don't recommed above 40 inches but with its 10 lumens you're probably going to want to go much lower.

The MiLi Pro laso features VGA and RCA inputs along with an iPhone dock connector and is expected to ship sometime in September.

(Via MobileWhack.)

Sharp XV-Z15000 DLP Projector

Sharp XV-Z15000

The Sharp XV-Z15000 DLP projector provides full HD high-resolution pictures with 1920 x 1080 pixels and greater capacity for large-screen pictures to prevent grainy colors. The panel is compatible with next-generation digital broadcast systems.

Containing Sharp optoelectronics technology, the XV-Z15000 provides 1600 ANSI lumen brightness in high-brightness mode to view large-screen pictures. True blacks and clearly reproduced subtle colors provide beautiful pictures. The XV-Z15000 is furnished with two HDMI inputs as well as various other video inputs, such as two component inputs, S-video inputs and composite inputs. Retails for around $2,499.00

Via Cybertheater