Vivitek H1080 DLP Video Projector - Product Review

The H1080 projects a bright image and good detail for high def sources. However, out-of-the-box color does need some tweaking, as flesh tones appear to be a little over-saturated and tend towards red. However, after a little tweaking the color is more accurate and consistent. Also, while the contrast range is very good, the depth and detail in dark parts of an image or in dark scenes is a little flat. However, although not as precise as a higher-end unit, the image quality is still very good for a projector in the $999 price range.

Deinterlacing and Upscaling of Standard Definition Material

In further testing, focusing on deinterlacing and scaling capabilities, I used the Silicon Optix HQV Benchmark DVD (ver 1.4). In order to conduct an accurate video projector upscaling test, I set the Helios H4000 DVD player to 480i output and connected the standard RCA composite video output of the player to the projector. By doing this, all of the deinterlacing and upscaling was performed by the H1080.

The test results showed that the H1080 did an acceptable job with both deinterlacing and scaling, but did not fair as well on rendering detail, noise reduction, and adapting some of more complex film/video frame cadences. Also, the 480i to 1080p upscaled images were on the soft side.

Also while the H1080 exhibited some jaggie artifacts on the deinterlacing tests, it performed well with moire pattern elimination. The H1080 also did an excellent job with the 3:2 Pulldown film cadence and rendering video titles over film elements. Check out a closer look at some of the test results.

With regards to Blu-ray Disc true 1080i and 1080p source material, the ability to accept input resolutions up to 1080p (including 1080p/24). Also, the H1080 did a good job of deinterlacing 1080i to 1080p for screen display. This is important as sometimes 1080i source material (such as TV/Cable/Satellite HD feeds and some Blu-ray Disc video content), if shown on a TV or projector that does not have a good video processor, can sometimes exhibit jaggie artifacts. The H1080 did a good job of dealing with this situation, producing a smooth image when put through this test.

For additional deinterlacling/scaling comparison, check out how the Vivitek H1080 compares with the similarly-priced Optoma HD20 (DLP) as well as two higher-end 1080p projectors: the Dreamvision Dream'E (LCOS),and the Samsung SP-A800B (DLP).

Audio Performance

Although home theater projectors typically don't include on-board speakers, as it is hoped that you will be using an external surround sound system, the H1080 actually houses a 4-inch speaker, as well as stereo audio inputs and outputs. However, although the audio inputs and outputs are stereo, the onboard audio system is mono.

The H1080's onboard speaker does produce intelligible sound in a small to medium-size room. This makes it a great option for use in a small classroom, presentation room, or for using in a room that does not have an audio system to tap into. Also, there are also onboard settings for bass, treble, and AGC (automatic gain control). However, keep in mind that the onboard speaker is definitely not a substitution for a separate audio system.

NOTE: When using the onboard speaker, it is best to sit behind the projector so the sound comes from front of you. If the projector is behind you, the sound direction may seem awkward.

What I Liked

1. Good image quality for the price. Accepts input resolutions up to 1080p. The Vivitek H1080 also accepts both PAL and NTSC frame rate input signals. Alhtough 480i/480p conversion and 1080p upscaling tests revealed some artifacts, real world content viewing was very good.

2. High lumen output produces bright images for large rooms and screen sizes. The Vivitek H1080 illustrates the increased trend towards the need for affordable video projectors to provide adequate light output for use in an average living or family room where some ambient light may be present.

3. Compact size makes it easy to place and move around if needed.

4. Fast cool down and shut-off time. The start-up time is about 30 seconds and the cool down time is about a minute. Video projectors, generally, have improved in this area.

5. Relatively quiet fan. Also, projector does not expel excessive amount of heat.

6. Easy to use backlit Remote Control.

1. Black levels and contrast were good, but depth and detail in darks areas look flat.

2. DLP Rainbow effect sometimes noticeable.

3. No Motorized Zoom or Focus Function - must be done manually at lens.

4. No Lens Shift function.

5. No carrying bag included.

Final Take

Setting up and using the H1080 was fairly easy. The input connections are clearly labeled and spaced out, and the on-unit control buttons and remote control are easy to use. However, the H1080 does not offer power zoom/focus or lens shift controls.

The Vivitek H1080 projects a bright image suitable for small, medium, and large size rooms in most homes.

Although the H1080 is not in the same performance class as high end video projectors, it none-the-less provides a good viewing experience for the price. I found that color accuracy to be good after a little teaking. However, the black level and contrast range although acceptable, may not satisfy experienced users. In addition, the built-in 1080p scaling of the H1080 was more than acceptable when viewing 480i/p DVD material, as well as 1080p Blu-ray resolutions.

The H1080 is definitely a great entry-level DLP video projector and is illustrative of the trend towards making a more viable option for the mainstream consumer. If you are looking for your first video projector, or a second projector for portable use, the H1080 is a great option.

For a closer look at the features, connections, and performance of teh Vivitek H1080, check out my Vivitek H1080 Photo Gallery and Video Performance Test Results.

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