Panasonic PT-P1SDU Compact LCD Video Projector

The Panasonic PT-P1SDU LCD video projector is a reasonably priced unit that is very compact and functional for home, classroom, or business meeting. With features, such as fast startup, accommodation of 720p and 1080i input signals (scaled to 800x600), SD card slot for playback of digital photos, and very good detail, the PT-P1SDU is a fun compact video projector that everyone in the family can setup and use. Its compact size also allows easy transport to meetings or family gatherings.

Targeted for general home, school, and office use, the Panasonic PT-P1SDU, priced at less than $1,200, is a versatile LCD video projector.

You don't need a pro to assist you with the PT-P1SDU. The setup and adjustment menus were very easy to navigate and were accessible either via remote or the projector itself. Although additional tweaking can be done if you have specific installation requirements, the PT-P1SDU still performs well out of the box.

I found the colors on the PT-P1SDU to be visually accurate, however, with just fair black levels and contrast. I also found that some color noise was exhibited on reds and blues.

Although lacking a true native Hi-def resolution display, I found the scaling capability of the PT-P1SDU maintained good image detail from 720p and 1080i sources.

Although the PT-P1SDU does not have the brightness, contrast ratio, and native HD resolution of more expensive units, the projected image was still pleasing. The brightness level dipped on larger size screens (in comparison with other projectors I have used), but I still found the PT-P1SDU to be of acceptable brightness and contrast at up to 100 inches. However, best results were obtained in the 60-to-80 inch screen size.

The inclusion of an SD card slot was very useful, however, adding additional card slots would be desirable.

The PT-P1SDU does not have component video inputs, however, a component-to-VGA adapter cable can be used for component video sources, such as DVD players.