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Vivitek D326WX DLP Video Projector

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Vivitek D326WX DLP Video Projector - Front View With Accesories

Vivitek D326WX DLP Video Projector - Front View With Accesories

Photo (c) Robert Silva - Licensed to About.com

The Bottom Line

At an MSRP of $1,199, the Vivitek D326WX DLP Video Projector projector is a great value. With its extremely compact design this projector can be placed just about anywhere, and with its included carrying case, can be taken with you to the office or grandma's house. With its native 1280x800 native pixel resolution and impressive 2,600 lumen output capability, the video quality is very good. Flesh tones and overall color saturation produce a very natural looking image. The D326WX also has a very quick turn-on and shut off time. The Vivitek D326WX lives up to the concept that a big surprise can come in a small package.
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Pros

  • Excellent Image Quality for the price featuring 1280x768 (720p) native pixel resolution and scaling.
  • High lumen output produces bright images for large rooms and screen sizes.
  • Very fast cool down and shut-off time.
  • Very compact and Easy to Use Remote Control.
  • Compact Carrying Case Included.

Cons

  • No Motorized Zoom or Focus Function - must be done manually at lens.
  • No separate Component Video input s - Must use Component-to-VGA adapter cable.
  • Does not accept 1080p input signals - up to 1080i only.
  • Fan noise is noticable - but not distracting.
  • No ceiling mount option.

Description

  • DLP Video Projector with 2,600 Lumens of light output and 1280x800 (approx.720p) Native Pixel Resolution.
  • Image size range: 39 to 295 inches - adds flexibility for both small and large screen sizes and room environments.
  • Native 16x9 Screen Aspect Ratio. The D326WX can also accommodate standard 4x3 aspect ratio sources.
  • 2500:1 Contrast Ratio. 200 Watt Lamp and 4000 Hour Lamp Life (Eco-Mode).
  • BrilliantColor™ technology with 5-segment color wheel (Red, Green, Blue, Yellow, White).
  • HDMI, VGA, HD-Component, S-Video, and Composite Video inputs. Any standard video source, except RF sources, can be connected.
  • Compatible with input resolutions up to 1080i. NTSC/PAL Compatible. All sources scaled to 720p for screen display.
  • Manual Zoom and Focus controls. On-screen menu system for other functions. Credit card size wireless remote control provided.
  • Automatic video input Detection - Manual video input selection also available via remote control or buttons on projector.
  • Dimensions: 8.66 x 7.0 x 2.8 inches - Weight: 3.2 lbs - AC Power: 100-240V, 50/60Hz

Guide Review - Vivitek D326WX DLP Video Projector

Setting up and using the D326WX is easy. The inputs are clearly labeled and spaced out, and the on-unit control buttons and remote control are easy to use.

The D326WX does not offer power zoom or focus controls, but its manual controls are straightforward.

With 2,600 maximum lumens output output capability, the Vivitek D326WX projects an image of exceptional brightness for its diminutive size. In addition, color accuracy was very good. However, while the contrast and black level was acceptable, it was not exceptional.

With regards to Blu-ray Disc and HD-DVD true 1080p source material, it must be noted that the D326WX cannot accept the maximum 1080p output from Blu-ray Disc or HD-DVD players, but can accept resolutions up to 1080i. What this means is that, if you are using the HDMI connection between the player between the projector, the player will automatically detect the maximum input resolution of the projector and reset the output to 1080i. The projector will then accept this signal and scale the image to its native pixel resolution (1280x800).

Even though D326WX cannot project a native 1080p image, the detail from both DVD and Blu-ray/HD-DVD sources was quite good. Probably the best example of good detail reproduction was the HD-DVD of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas with the close-ups of Johnny Depp in the convertible at the beginning of the film.

If you are in the market for your first home theater video projector or a business person that needs a good quality, and compact, portable projector for traveling (the included carrying case is a nice touch), the D326WX is definitely worth consideration. I give the Vivitek D326WX a solid 4 out of 5 Stars.

For a closer look at the features, connections, and video performance of D326WX, check out my Vivitek D326WX Photo Gallery, Full Review, and Video Performance Test Results.

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