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InFocus X3 General Purpose DLP Video Projector - Short Review

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InFocus X3 DLP Video Projector

InFocus X3 DLP Video Projector

InFocus

The Bottom Line

The DLP-equipped Infocus X3 DLP video projector is an inexpensive, practical, easy-to-use video projector. Colors and shadows are even and retain their intended characteristics in dark scenes. Even though the X3 does not have native HD-resolution capability of more expensive units, it still provides and excellent value in terms of performance and features for general purpose use.
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Pros

  • The X3 has very good contrast and color for its category.
  • The owner's manual well illustrated and easy to understand -- quick setup sheet also included.
  • The menus and remote are very easy to use and the projector is quick to setup .
  • Startup and cooldown times are fast .
  • The X3 is very reasonably priced.

Cons

  • The DLP Rainbow effect is prominent on some DVDs.
  • The onboard speaker output level is low.
  • The remote control is not lighted.
  • The component video connection requires accessory adapter.
  • No carrying case is supplied.

Description

  • DLP video projector with with Texas Instruments .55" XGA DDR DMD Chip.
  • Native resolution is 1024x768, with a 4x3 native aspect ratio. The X3 can be set for 16x9 display.
  • High definition sources are scaled down to 1024x768 for display.
  • 1,600 lumens (1,100 lumens in low power mode) - 200 watt lamp - 4,000 hour maximum life.
  • Connections include composite, S-Video, and Component (via cable adapter), and PC monitor input.
  • The X3 is both NTSC and PAL compatible.
  • The X3 has a set of analog stereo audio inputs and Built-in 2.5 Watt Mono amplifier with speaker.
  • Manual zoom and focus control on projector.
  • PC and MacIntosh compatible.
  • Wireless remote control included; all functions can be controlled via remote or from the projector.

Guide Review - InFocus X3 General Purpose DLP Video Projector - Short Review

Although the X3 is not a high-end video projector, I found it to be a good performer. The X3 runs very cool on the low power mode, however, when put into standard power mode to obtain brighter images on larger screen sizes (such as 90 inch size or larger), the fan noise does increase to audible levels. I found the menus and remote to be very easy to use and the projector is quick to setup; both startup and cooldown times are fast. Although the projector is larger than the current "mini-sized" units, I found the size easy to work with. Lastly, the color and contrast was very good for a projector in this class, it performed well with both S-video and progressive scan component video sources.

However, the output level of the onboard speakers is low, even when you turn the volume up. This may not be adequate for an average-size classroom, although it may be sufficient for business presentation in a small conference room. For home theater, the audio is connected directly from a DVD player or other component directly to an AV receiver or other amplifier, so having or not having speakers on the projector itself would be a non-issue in this case.

I would say that the X3 is a good general-purpose projector. I wouldn't consider it for a high-end home theater installation; but for an average family that may have a need for video games, home theater, and business use, this projector can fill the bill at a reasonable price.

The X3 is a fun, practical, unit. I give it 4 Stars out of 5.

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Disclosure: Review samples were provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.

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