Projectors

Jack of all trades This single-chip DLP projector can be converted to 3D with off-board hardware. But it’s trying to please too many different users, says Martin Pipe

The Viewsonic Pro8450 is a 720p single-chip DLP projector with a variety of applications.

Ambassador of 3D, you truly spoil us SIM2's latest three-chip DLP projector is a watershed moment in home cinema 3D’s fortunes, reckons John Archer

Despite the AV industry’s best efforts, it seems the public’s interest in domestic 3D may be waning. Indeed, it feels as if the format needs a ‘booster shot’ from some landmark film or product, to re-ignite public enthusiasm.

Austerity cinema How low can you go and still get a great cinematic experience? Steve May finds out, as he counts his change from a grand...

BenQ’s W1100 projector delivers large scale, vibrant images without obvious compromise, and its a full HD flag-waver for AV in our straitened times.

Import duty Martin Pipe gives his verdict on Sharp’s first DLP 3D projector and makes a case for its appearance on these shores

When asked by Sharp if we wanted to audition its 3D projector, we weren’t about to say no, even though the machine hasn’t yet been confirmed for a UK release. Oddly, Sharp is prevaricating about whether there’s a market for a 3D PJ with a retail price of around £4,000. But AV retailers’ shelves aren’t exactly heaving with such items. There’s only Sony’s VPL-VW90ES (£5,400) and a trio of JVC models, ranging in price from £3,500 to £9,500. And that’s currently it.

Adapt to adopt 3D Your very own big screen 3D cinema for less than a grand? It’s possible says Steve May, but there are caveats…

Three dimensions work best on a cinema-sized screen where the format is more immersive and ultimately more convincing. While a 3DTV promises a peek through a dimensional window, cinema opens the doors and drags you inside.

Little PJ with big ideas This budget full HD projector has much to recommend it, says Martin Pipe

The W1000+ can be yours for roughly the same amount as you’d pay for a good 40in TV. And none can offer the same big- screen thrills. The machine is capable of casting a 300in image thanks to the high output of its optical engine.

3D as the director intended Sony brings the thrills of big-screen 3D home and Steve May is so impressed he can’t get those spex on fast enough

Many TV addicts are sceptical of domestic 3D. There’s just not enough content available to compensate for the general inconvenience of having to wear special glasses, particularly if you like to multitask. Surfing on a laptop or snarfing custard creams are both devilishly difficult to achieve from behind Active Shutter lenses. But take 3D out of the living room and place it in a dedicated home cinema and it becomes a proposition that will make you rethink your views.