Projector Centeral Round-up

Two impressive 1080p projectors released this fall are the Mitsubishi HC6000 and the Panasonic PT-AE2000U. Initially, the HC6000 was released with a contrast rating of 13,000:1, but the specification was subsequently revised to 15,000:1. We wanted to see the final production unit side by side against the Panasonic AE2000, which has been edging several competing units in the 1080p field in terms of contrast. The following notes are the results of the test.

InFocus caught the attention of many at this year’s CEDIA convention with the unveiling of their first 1080p projector, the Play Big IN82. It is currently the brightest 1080p projector available under $10,000, which makes it a great option for very large screens or ambient light use. It is sold primarily through the CEDIA custom installer network, so it is not available on the Internet. It can be had from your local custom home theater installation specialist for a cool $5499.

Panasonic’s second generation 1080p projector, the PT-AE2000U, is a significant step beyond last year’s impressive AE1000. Topping its long list of great attributes is its outstanding contrast and black level performance. On these measurements it outperforms every other 1080p projector we have put it up against that is anywhere near its price range. And along with its high contrast comes excellent color saturation. Selling at an official street price of just $2,699, it is one of the most formidable and competitive of the new 1080p projectors released this fall.