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Optoma HD806 1080p DLP Video Projector

About.com Rating 4

By Robert Silva, About.com

Optoma HD806 DLP Video Projector - Front View With Accessories

Optoma HD806 DLP Video Projector - Front View With Accessories

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

The Bottom Line

At an MSRP of $2,599 the Optoma HD806 DLP Projector is a great value. The HD806 has a streamline stylish design that is compatible with almost any decor. With its native 1920x1080 (1080p) native pixel resolution and it 2,000 lumen output capability, the video quality is very good. Flesh tones and overall color saturation produce a very natural looking image. Another bonus is that the HD806 has a very quick turn-on and cool down shut off time. I found the Optoma HD806 to be a good performing and easy-to-use video projector.
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Pros

  • Very good image quality.
  • High lumen output produces bright images for large rooms and screen sizes.
  • Features both HDMI and DVI inputs.
  • Fast cool down and shut-off time.
  • Easy to Use Remote Control.

Cons

  • No Motorized Zoom or Focus Function - must be done manually at lens.
  • Fan noise is noticable.
  • Expels a lot of heat through side vent.
  • DLP Rainbow effect, although minimized, is sometimes noticable.
  • No carrying case or storage bag included in box.

Description

  • DLP Video Projector with 2,000 Lumens of light output and 1920x1080 (1080p) Native Pixel Resolution.
  • Image size range: 30 to 300 inches - adds flexibility for both small and large screen sizes and room environments.
  • 8000:1 Contrast Ratio. 300 Watt Lamp. Six-segment 2X speed color wheel.
  • Two HDMI, and one each of the following: VGA (via adapter to DVI), Component, S-Video, and Composite Video inputs.
  • Compatible with input resolutions up to 1080p. NTSC/PAL Compatible.
  • Video Deinterlacing and upscaling to 1080p via Pixel Works DNX video processing.
  • Manual Zoom and Focus controls. On-screen menu system for other functions. Wireless remote control provided.
  • Automatic video input Detection - Manual video input selection also available via remote control or buttons on projector.
  • Dimensions: 16” x 4.6” x 12.2” (406 x 117 x 310 mm). Weight: 10 pounds.
  • Power Consumption: 435 watts (full power), 375 watts (ecomode), 14 watts (standby power).

Guide Review - Optoma HD806 1080p DLP Video Projector

Setting up and using the HD806 was fairly easy. The input connections are clearly labeled and spaced out, and the on-unit control buttons and remote control easy to use.

The HD806 does not offer power zoom or focus controls, but its manual controls are straightforward.

With 2,000 maximum lumens output capability, the Optoma HD806 projects a bright image, with good color, contrast, and detail, that is suitable for small, medium, and large size rooms in most homes.

Although the HD806 is not in the same price class as high end video projectors, it none-the-less is a very good performer. I found the color In addition, the HD806 did a very good job of upscaling lower resolution 480i DVD material to 1080p, as well as passing direct 1080p Blu-ray resolution, including 1080p/24 signals.

Another welcome observation was that the traditional DLP Rainbow Effect, although present (I am one of those that is sensitive to it), was not as noticable as I have experienced with other single-chip color wheel based DLP projectors.

The included wireless remote has a good layout and well-spaced buttons, as well as providing a backlight function that activates when any button is pressed. This makes it easier to use in the dark. Also, the onscreen menu system, although very detailed, was easy to navigate. In addition, the user manual is very well laid out, with easy-to-undertand explanations and good illustrations.

The HD806 is definitely a welcome entry into the midrange video projector market and is illustrative of a trend that is making video projection more affordable for the consumer.

I give the Optoma HD806 DLP Video Projector a solid 4 out of 5 Stars.

For a closer look at the features and connections of HD806, check out my Optoma HD806 Photo Gallery, Full Review, and Video Performance Test Results.

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