Harrogate Home Cinema

New Sonos Ipod Dock!

2010-09-23T09:36:00.001+01:00

Sonos adds wireless iPod dock to its whole-house system

TODAY

Sonos WD100: on sale in October at £99

On the way from Sonos is the £99 WD100 Wireless Dock for iPods and iPhones, allowing music stored on the portable devices to be streamed to any room in the house with a Sonos unit.

The WD100 accesses music digitally from iPods and iPhones, and sends it wirelessly to the company's ZonePlayers for digital to analogue conversion and playback.

It's compatible with 1st, 2nd and 3rd-gen iPod Touch, iPod Classic, iPod nano (3rd-5th gen), and iPhones, and will be in the shops at the end of October.

Sonos President Phil Abraham says that 'This new dock reinforces our mission to provide our customers with access to all of the music on the planet, including everything available on an iPod and iPhone in the home.'

Available from Harrogate Home Cinema in time for Christmas.

3d Home Cinema Projectors ever closer

2010-08-11T22:32:00.003+01:00

Optoma adds HW536 and EX762 DLP projectors to the 3D party

Although not quite the Full HD dedicated Home Cinema projectors we have become accustomed to, nevertheless Optoma seem to be getting closer to large scale 3D in the home - have a look at this article By Richard Lai posted Mar 3rd 2010 5:23PM:

If 3D monitors aren't doing it for you, here are a couple of larger display options -- our lucky pals over at Engadget Chinese witnessed the birth of Optoma's two new 3D projectors in Taiwan yesterday. Pictured on the left is the HW536 cinema DLP projector, which has HDMI input and projects a 1,280 x 800 image at 2,800 lumens with a 3,000:1 contrast ratio. Next up is the EX762 business DLP projector that also sports HDMI input and a network jack, while delivering a 1,024 x 768 resolution at 4,000 lumens and a 3,000:1 contrast ratio. Each pair of ZD101 shutter glasses -- not bundled with either projectors -- will cost you extra, in return offering a wireless range of up to eight meters courtesy of Texas Instruments' non-directional DLP Link technology (so no need to position any external emitters).

Engadget Chinese

Sonos - now even more flexible!

2010-08-06T11:11:00.002+01:00

OK, Sonos. Obviously, we're big fans of Sonos here at Harrogate Home Cinema, but the Sonos S5 all-in-one system has always been a touch limited in my opinion. Yes it goes loud and sounds great, but what about for larger rooms where hard-wiring a ZP120 amplifier in with some large speakers isn't really an option? Well, they've cracked it now by offering a 'stereo pair' option for two S5's! It's simple. Place one S5 at either end of a room, and link them together to work as one unit. Now we've got a pair running together in our home cinema showroom in Harrogate, I can see what Sonos were thinking. They sound fantastic, and will fill even large rooms with powerful, well weighted stereo sound. And, they remain completely portable too! Perfect for taking one up to bed with you on an evening, or laving one by an open door during barbeque season! Well done Sonos!!

New Sonos Website

2010-05-20T16:20:00.000+01:00

New Sonos website from Harrogate Home Cinema is now live and selling sonos multiroom audio to the masses, its also packed to the hild with useful sonos information and multiroom audio videos

Plaster In Loudspeakers by Amina!

2010-04-29T09:33:00.002+01:00

Want hi fidelity sound but with absolutely no visible speakers? No problem - at Harrogate Home Cinema we are now able to supply & install incredible plaster in loudspeakers from Amina technologies. but how do they work? read on...

The core element of an Amina Plaster In-wall loudspeaker comprises a specialist lightweight, yet very strong composite panel material, which vibrates in the same way as the bodies of natural musical instruments (for example the acoustic guitar, violin or piano). These vibrations recreate a diffuse source of sound energy which is emitted in a far less directional manner and one capable of filling a space far more evenly than a conventional loudspeaker. This diffuse source creates a high definition sound field over a very wide area ensuring that surround sound or a stereo sound field is heard whatever the room, and wherever the listening position.

The beating heart of an Amina Plaster In-wall loudspeaker is its acoustic ‘engine’, using the very latest rare earth magnet based, high power vibrational excitation driver(s) (one in the case of the AIW1, and four in the case of the AIW5).

This allows the AIW5 to handle an incredible 80W of continuous power,
generating a massive 105dB of sound with plaster applied. The AIW range copes with the most dynamic of sounds, recreating the clarity of individual notes produced by the classical guitar, to the impressive effects generated in modern action movies.

The acoustic engine sets up tiny, but powerful vibrations (you can feel them but cannot see them) in the specialist composite panel material, which are then transferred through the plaster, paint or wallpaper to the very front surface of the wall or ceiling. This in turn vibrates air molecules at its boundary, which then excites more air molecules further away, sending a diffuse, non correlated energy sound wave out into the room.

For more details please call Harrogate Home Cinema on 01423 705851

Amina Technologies

new rako sales website

2010-04-26T13:10:00.000+01:00

We have just created our online rako intelligent lighting store, combining advanced automation functionality with simple retro-fit installation, rako is head and shoulders above the competition, making it quick, easy, and affordable to intall and commission. click here to visit buyrako.co.uk

Phil Spencer says....

2010-04-25T10:56:00.005+01:00

Have a look at the link.... Get an idea of how Home Cinema and integrated technologies are really a must have in 2010!

http://www.primelocation.com/articles/my-home-is-better-than-your-home/?utm_campaign=uknewsletter-April2010&utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter

Call Harrogate Home Cinema For details of how we can help you with Media rooms, Bathroom TVs, Home Cinema suites, Home Automation systems and much more....

www.harrogatehomecinema.co.uk

01423 705851

Screen Research Announces New Reference X-Mask2 Range (7/4/2010)

2010-04-08T20:21:00.002+01:00

Available from Harrogate Home Cinema, check out the new Projector screens from Screen Research:

With an improved masking system, a slimmer, more elegant, and compact design, the performance level for fixed projection screens with masking has improved significantly thanks to Screen Research’s new Reference X-Mask2 range.

Screen Research is pleased to announce the availability with immediate effect, of the new Reference X-Mask2 projection screen range. The new series replaces the previous X-Mask™ range, offering significant design advances to both the installer and end-user.

The new Reference X-Mask2 range includes features:

* A very elegant design and finish
* The Flush-housing, SlimFrame™ design with Handcrafted Velour frame finish provides a very compact frame with low visual and physical impact, whilst maintaining excellent image borders.
* Reduced distance between masks, frame, and projection surface minimizes any shadow cast on the projection surface, preserving a pristine projected image.
* New very precise motors and improved mask mechanism
* Exclusive QuietGlide™ motor mounting and masking system gives smooth and quiet masking system operation.
* Somfy® ILT precision positioning motors offer precise positioning of masks, matching the viewable image perfectly.
* The new Motor Control System offers 8 fully precise presets as standard, or 20 presets with a Crestron® module interface, allowing virtually any viewable image ratio to be set. Variable masking allows flexibility in setting a range of viewable image ratios

The Reference X-Mask2 range is available in 16/9, 2.40 or the new PMI 2.0 Constant Surface Masking concept. This minimizes the difference in viewable image areas and allows the image formats to be more consistent, providing a more enjoyable viewing experience.

“This Reference X-Mask2 series is definitely a major improvement in our very successful range of masking systems for fixed screens. Together with the use of our patented mask guidance mechanism; this product includes all the newest features and options required for the perfect answer to more demanding High-End Home Theater applications. This in line with the Screen Research philosophy of offering no-compromise products to the market” comments Yves Trélohan, C.E.O and Founder of Screen Research.

SlimFrame Low-profile Design

The new SlimFrame and housing design offers significant space saving and performance advantages for the installer. The new frame and housing reduces the profile of the structure by 30%. This reduces the overall size of the screen, making it more flexible to install. It has the added benefit of reducing on-site installation time by approximately 50% over its predecessor.

The Flush-housing frame housing features flush frame joints, resulting in a more elegant aesthetic and reduced distance between the image masks and the projection surface. This minimizes any shadow cast by the projected image, keeping the viewable image pristine.

Somfy ILT Precision Motors

The new step-by-step precision positioning motors allow greater accuracy for masking positions. The new motor control system allows up to 8 presets when used with the MCS-ILT control box and 20 presets with a Crestron® module interface. The control input protocols available for this new range are Infrared, RS232, and RS485

QuietGlide Masking Guidance System

QuietGlide is a new, sophisticated masking and guidance system. Its upgraded motor suspensions eliminate mechanical vibrations, significantly reducing noise levels when in use, extending product life. The result is a screen with quiet and smooth operation, suitable for the most sophisticated of Home Theater installations.

THX®-certified acoustically transparent masks allow viewable image masking without compromising the audio performance of Screen research’s acoustically transparent screen fabrics.

Harrogate Home Cinema Vidette

2010-03-04T14:14:00.002+00:00

The ultimate in Home Cinema Performance!

2010-03-03T22:49:00.003+00:00

Harrogate Home Cinema introduces the JBL Synthesis® K2
Reference Multi-Channel HD AV Processor / Amplification & Speaker System

A no-expense-spared entertainment system for listening rooms of up to 75,000 cubic feet, the Synthesis K2 home theatre system is so named for its use of the internationally acclaimed JBL K2 S9900 loudspeaker in the critical front left centre and right positions. One of the most refined and spectacular speakers ever created by JBL, the K2 S9900 speaker features Magnesium and Beryllium mid and high frequency compression drivers coupled to dedicated bi-radial horns. High frequencies are reproduced to beyond 40 kHz, while a massive 15-inch woofer reaches below 40Hz.

Surround information is channelled to six S1A dipole ambient surround speakers, each with dual 2-inch high-frequency and dual 8-inch mid-bass drivers. The S1A’s low profile cabinet design and flush mount grille allows each speaker to be mounted either on or inside a wall for the most discreet installation. To deliver thunderous sub-bass and LFE frequencies four S1S-EX 18-inch, 800-watt subwoofers are employed. In all, the Synthesis K2 home theatre system comprises thirteen exceptionally refined loudspeakers, driven and controlled by the SDP-40HD processor/controller, SDEC-4500 digital equalizer and no fewer than ten S820 amplifiers. Synthesis K2 delivers up to 8,000 watts of power and achieves sound-pressure levels as high as 105dBA without distortion, making it one of the most powerful and refined systems ever developed for residential use.

Each Synthesis® K2 system is calibrated on site precisely to match room acoustics. The procedure involves the use of eight separate microphones to ensure that the sound at every listening position is optimised.

Call Harrogate Home Cinema to arrange a special demonstration of this incredible system. 01423 705 851

Samsung Delivers Full HD 3D LED TV to European Market in March

2010-03-03T22:39:00.001+00:00

Samsung Delivers Full HD 3D LED TV to European Market in March

Samsung Rolling Out Award-winning 3D LED, LCD and Plasma TVs; Company Adds New European Content Providers to Internet@TV.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., a market leader and award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, announced today that its award-winning full HD 3D entertainment products will be available to European consumers in March 2010, and the TVs will support new content and applications, including AudioLounge, BoxOffice 365, and Cartoon Network. As a result, Samsung will be the first company to make full HD 3D LED TVs available to European consumers.

With the widest range of options in 3D home entertainment ever, including the first 3D LED TVs, 3D LCD and 3D Plasma TVs, a Blu-ray Player and a Home Theater System, Samsung continues to lead the home entertainment industry by liberating content and creating new, immersive experiences for consumers. Samsung delivered its news at the company’s Regional Forum in Vienna, the first of several global events created by Samsung to educate influencers and consumers about the capabilities of the company’s 3D technology, and its ability to liberate television content into another dimension.

“The success of recent 3D movie titles is building anticipation from people who want to enjoy the richness of 3D content from the comfort of their living room,” said Andy Griffiths, Vice President of Consumer Electronics for SAMSUNG UK. “We are confident that by being first to market with the best integrated technology and approach, we have the best opportunity to capitalize on the market anticipation and continue to strengthen our leadership in 2010. Samsung continues to lead the industry by being the first to market to deliver full HD 3D LED TV — with the widest range of options of 3D home entertainment ever with a full line up of FPTVs, Blu-ray Player and Home Theater Systems – and we are lining up the best 3D content for our TVs to fuel adoption.”

Total Solution Support for Samsung 3D

With a comprehensive line up of 3D TV and AV products, proprietary 3D glasses developed by Samsung and strong content partnerships, Samsung is the leader in delivering a comprehensive 3D offering.

Starting with the LED 8 Series, LED 7 Series the LCD 7 Series TVs and the BD-C6900 Blu-ray player, the first 3D models will roll out in key markets beginning in March, with additional models such as the LED 9, the Plasma 7 Series and the HT-C6930W Home Theater System coming in late Spring. The products, which were unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show in January, have already earned industry recognition, including receiving the Best of CES and CES Innovation Honoree Awards.

Recognizing the need for strong content offering, Samsung also recently announced it has joined forces with DreamWorks Animation and Technicolor to accelerate the worldwide deployment of in-home 3D to mainstream consumers. The solution includes a broad line-up of 3D-capable HDTVs from Samsung, its new 3D Blu-ray disc player, and an exclusive promotion that includes a first-time feature-length, 3D Blu-ray version of DreamWorks Animation’s 2009 release, “Monsters vs. Aliens.”

Internet@TV

All of the 3D models will feature built-in Ethernet connection, wireless-ready capabilities, and Internet@TV, which provides access to the world’s first HDTV-based application store Samsung Apps. Samsung also announced that several new content providers will be delivering content and applications to the Samsung Apps store, including kids TV provider Cartoon Network; the music jukebox service AudioLounge; and video on demand providers Box Office 365, Box Office 365 Kids, and Acetrax; online video site Dailymotion; the Google’s Picasa photo service; online gaming service Playjam; and the History Channel. These join other popular European service providers LOVEFiLM, BBC iPlayer and Muzu.tv in the United Kingdom and TF1 in France.

Finally, outstanding design and energy-saving features will ensure that the 3D products fit with the sophisticated taste and environmental awareness of the modern consumer.

Samsung 3D Powered by Unique Technology

Samsung’s 3D products all include Samsung’s proprietary built-in 3D processor and emitter that is optimized for, and enables compatibility, with multiple 3D standards including half and full HD resolution formats as well as the Blu-ray Disc Association approved “Blu-ray 3D” standard. In addition, Samsung’s 3D system delivers a picture using a full color spectrum for incredible depth and perfect clarity. For those who want to add the third dimension to their regular TV viewing, Samsung included in its 3D processor an auto-conversion technology that renders 2D content into 3D in real time. Consumers can add a level of depth and clarity to a live football game, with the simple push of a button.

Harrogate Home Cinema

How do I choose the right amplifier power for my speaker system?

2010-03-02T13:52:00.002+00:00

How do I choose the right amplifier power for my speaker system? When it comes to choosing a power amplifier there are a number of factors to consider.

Have a read of the info below, but remeneber - If this all seems a little complicated, just give Harrogate Home Cinema a call on 01423 705 851 to be enlightened!

» Power
Generally you should pick an amplifier that can deliver power equal to twice the speaker's continuous IEC power rating. This means that a speaker with a "nominal impedance" of 8 ohms and a continuous IEC power rating of 350 watts will require an amplifier that can produce 700 watts into an 8 ohm load. For a stereo pair of speakers, the amplifier should be rated at 700 watts per channel into 8 ohms.

» Headroom
A quality professional loudspeaker can handle transient peaks in excess of its rated power if the amplifier can deliver those peaks without distortion. Using an amp with some extra "headroom" will help assure that only clean, undistorted power gets to your speakers. Some professional amplifiers are designed so they have additional headroom. These amps can cleanly reproduce transient peaks that exceed the amplifier's rated power. In this case select a model with an output power rating equal to the continuous IEC power rating of the speaker. Consult the amplifier manufacturer or owner's manual to learn more.

» Budget
If budget restraints or legacy equipment force you to use an amplifier with less power, extreme care should be taken to see that the amplifier is not driven into clipping. It may surprise you to learn that low power can result in damage to your speaker or system, not to mention ear fatigue caused by the resultant distortion.

Call Harrogate Home Cinema for advice on Multi-room audio, Home Cinema & Digital Home Technologies.

www.harrogatehomecinema.co.uk

Imerge launches GUI update for the MediaServer MS5000 1080p AV media server

2010-03-02T13:31:00.003+00:00

Imerge, the Cambridge-based pioneer of hard disk home media servers, available at Harrogate Home Cinema, has launched the long awaited Graphical User Interface (GUI) update for the ever-popular MediaServer MS5000 – the world’s first single-chassis 1080p audio/visual media server for multi-room applications. The GUI is identical to the groundbreaking interface developed recently by Imerge for its flagship MediaServer MS1, delivering the same unique benefits to the many MS5000 users in the UK and around the world. Simplicity and elegance are key to the way the GUI operates, delivering a slick, intuitive, graphically rich interface through which end-users interact with their music and movies.

The GUI itself is delivered in 1080p, displaying Full HD cover art (accessed via the internet) on 1080p-capable displays. What’s more, the MS5000 GUI benefits from the same ‘Day 3’ enhancements recently delivered to MS1 users, including the following new features:

evelopment in IEEE 802 that support audio and video applications over local area networking technologies."

1. Control Interface for Apple iPhone and iPod Touch
Specially developed iPhone app allowing full control of the MS5000 via an iPhone or iPod Touch. Makes full use of the iPhone’s multi-touch control.

2. ‘Digital Safe’ Data Backup
A dedicated backup area that allows the MS5000 to be used as a central storage and access point for all the user’s digital data – not just music and movies, but everything stored on a household’s computers, too. The MS5000’s built-in hard drives deliver RAID 5 protection, thereby offering a much higher level of data security than most other data back-up devices for residential use.

3. Parental Control Facility
Allows age restrictions to be set ‘per zone’. For example, the main cinema room in a home installation can be kept free of any rating limits, while media access in children’s bedrooms is limited according to age.

4. Advanced Metadata Editing
Unprecedented metadata editing tools, allowing all aspects relating to each piece of media – track details, movie credits, plot synopses and so on – to be edited or replaced at the touch of a button. Cover art may also be uploaded manually, complementing Imerge’s existing partnerships with the GD3, Gracenote and AMG online databases, thus delivering the most advanced cover art and metadata facilities currently available.

Upon its launch in 2007, the MS5000 was the world’s first true 1080p media server aimed at the residential custom installation sector. A convenient, single-chassis design for multi-room applications, it incorporates 3TB hard-disk storage (in RAID 5 configuration for high-grade data security) and delivers video and/or audio to up to four zones simultaneously, with 1080p video upscaling and audiophile-quality sound. It continues to be popular with installers and end-users alike, thanks to its one-box simplicity, robustness and value-for-money.

The launch of the new MS5000 GUI follows many months of comprehensive beta testing, ensuring that stability and functionality are in line with Imerge’s stringent standards. The user experience is greatly enhanced as a result of its implementation, once again demonstrating Imerge’s commitment to the continual improvement of its products, and the delivery of downloadable updates to enhance the experience of existing users.

“The new interface brings the Imerge family of products into line, and the MS5000 update will delight customers all over the world, who continue to enjoy their media the Imerge way,” said Charlie Mertz, Business Development Manager for Imerge. “We always listen to our customers and respond to their needs, and the new GUI will greatly enhance the experience of all MS5000 users.”

The updated MS5000 GUI is available now to all MS5000 owners as a free download. Existing users can update their servers by accessing the ‘online update’ option via the MS5000’s menu system. All MS5000 servers sold from this point on will have the new GUI pre-installed.

If you have an existing MS5000 in your Home Cinema, call Harrogate Home Cinema on 01423 705 851 to discuss a free upgrade support call-out.

Imerge Announces 2TB Hard Drives for its XiVASafe Storage

2010-03-02T13:23:00.000+00:00

Imerge Announces 2TB Hard Drives for its XiVASafe Storage- Availalbe at Harrogate Home Cinema

Pioneering home media server manufacturer moves from 1TB to 2TB drives, at minimal additional cost to the consumer
Imerge, the Cambridge-based pioneer of hard disk home cinema media servers, is delighted to announce a move from 1TB to 2TB drives for its class-leading XiVASafe storage components, companions to the MediaServer MS1 – the world’s most advanced management and archiving solution for music and movies.
The move from 1TB to 2TB drives effectively doubles the storage capacities available from the XiVASafe range within each given chassis. Capacity of the entry-level XiVASafe component has leapt from 1TB to 2TB – sufficient space to store the contents of around 3,000 uncompressed album-length CDs, or 300 DVDs – complete with RAID 1 mirrored configuration (this means that an exact copy of all data is kept on a second 2TB drive, for genuine peace of mind).

All Imerge products are availalbe from Harrogate Home Cinema - please call 01423 705851 for pricing and demonstration.

DLP vs LCD Projectors

2010-03-02T11:57:00.002+00:00

The Basic Differences in Technology

LCD projectors - start with a source of light (lamp) and split the light into three beams. Each beam passes through its own LCD panel. The LCD panels each have hundreds of thousands of tiny pixels, the higher the resolution, the more pixels. Data determines whether light is allowed to pass through each one.

One panel has a red filter, one a green, and one a blue filter. The light is then recombined, using a dichroic prism. The combined, now in full color, passes through the lens and hits your screen.

DLP projectors (except 3 chip). Again, start with a lamp light source. Instead of passing light through an LCD panel, it is reflected off of a DLP chip (which has hundreds of thousands of tiny mirrors), which modulates the light. A color, spinning wheel (referred to as a color wheel), combined with timing, allows the light to come out the correct colors, and pass through the lens on its way to the screen.

DLP projectors - One chip or three?

The vast majority of DLP projectors use a single monochrome DLP chip (officially DMD for "Digital Micro Device), and the aforementioned spinning color filter wheel to generate colors. Unless specifically noted, when this series of articles refers to DLP projectors, they are discussing single chip models.

There is another group of DLP projectors, 3 chip models. These are currently at the top of the food chain, in terms of performance, whether for business or home theater, but as they currently start with selling prices in excess of $10,000, are not widely used, except in high end home theater, screening rooms, and commercial applications demanding the best performance. Three chip DLP projectors function more like LCD projectors. The light source is split into 3 beams. ,Llight is still reflected off of the DLP chips instead of passing though as is done with LCD panels, however, like with LCD projectors the three beams are recombined into a single beam and pass through the lens. It should be noted that 3 chip DLP projectors often use the exact same DLP chips that are used singly in one chip models.

Featherweight Portables, Portables and Fixed Installation Projectors

For purposes of this series of projector advice articles, Portables have been split into two catagories: Under 5 lbs. (featherweights), and 5 - 12 lbs. (portables). There is a definite gray area where portables give way to "fixed/install" projectors, in fact many companies now hang portable projectors weighing less than 5 lbs, in conference rooms. When we refer to fixed/install models, we are primarily referring to heavier units that are more full featured, most typically offering interchangeable lenses, and lens shift, and lots of lumens.

In the portable projector arena, the smallest/lightest projectors around are DLP projectors. This has been true for about 7 years. If you want a 2 or 3 pound projector, today, it is DLP. (Although Panasonic, this month, just announced the first under 3 lb. LCD projector - at 2.9 pounds, with SVGA resolution). The lightest XGA resolution LCD projector is currently 3.7 pounds and there are only a handful under 5 pounds. By comparison, there are probably 3 dozen DLP projectors between 1.98 and 4 pounds. So if you want the lightest and smallest it will be a DLP projector.

The big question is, if you don’t mind a bit more weight - 4 to 7 pound projectors, or you need more features or performance found in the smallest and lightest, what the advantages of each technology, and which is best for you?

LCD Projectors: Strengths

•Richer color dynamics for better results in rooms with ample ambient light

•Draw less power

•Throw less heat

•No color filter wheel = No "rainbow effect"

•Slightly quieter Seemingly sharper image on data

Quicktip: Figure you need about 30% more lumens in a DLP projector to hold its own with an LCD model.

DLP Projectors: Strengths

•Smoother video

•Smaller box

•Pixels far less visible, (although normally not an issue for business use)

•More “filmlike” on DVD and HDTV

•Generate "blacker" blacks

•Higher contrast

LCD Projectors: Disadvantages

•More visible pixels

•Some screen door effect on certain video images

•Physically larger - Even for the same number of lumens

•Poorer contrast

•Blacks come out lighter gray than DLP prrojectors

DLP Projectors: Disadvantages

•Rainbow effect bothers some

•More moving parts (color filter wheel)

•Color filter wheel often produces soft but audible whine

•Poorer reds and yellows at full power

•Color saturation

•Need more lumens than LCD, for rich colors, when dealing with ambient light

2010-03-02T11:35:00.001+00:00

The Basic Differences in Technology

LCD projectors - start with a source of light (lamp) and split the light into three beams. Each beam passes through its own LCD panel. The LCD panels each have hundreds of thousands of tiny pixels, the higher the resolution, the more pixels. Data determines whether light is allowed to pass through each one.

One panel has a red filter, one a green, and one a blue filter. The light is then recombined, using a dichroic prism. The combined, now in full color, passes through the lens and hits your screen.

DLP projectors (except 3 chip). Again, start with a lamp light source. Instead of passing light through an LCD panel, it is reflected off of a DLP chip (which has hundreds of thousands of tiny mirrors), which modulates the light. A color, spinning wheel (referred to as a color wheel), combined with timing, allows the light to come out the correct colors, and pass through the lens on its way to the screen.

DLP projectors - One chip or three?

The vast majority of DLP projectors use a single monochrome DLP chip (officially DMD for "Digital Micro Device), and the aforementioned spinning color filter wheel to generate colors. Unless specifically noted, when this series of articles refers to DLP projectors, they are discussing single chip models.

There is another group of DLP projectors, 3 chip models. These are currently at the top of the food chain, in terms of performance, whether for business or home theater, but as they currently start with selling prices in excess of $10,000, are not widely used, except in high end home theater, screening rooms, and commercial applications demanding the best performance. Three chip DLP projectors function more like LCD projectors. The light source is split into 3 beams. ,Llight is still reflected off of the DLP chips instead of passing though as is done with LCD panels, however, like with LCD projectors the three beams are recombined into a single beam and pass through the lens. It should be noted that 3 chip DLP projectors often use the exact same DLP chips that are used singly in one chip models.

Featherweight Portables, Portables and Fixed Installation Projectors

For purposes of this series of projector advice articles, Portables have been split into two catagories: Under 5 lbs. (featherweights), and 5 - 12 lbs. (portables). There is a definite gray area where portables give way to "fixed/install" projectors, in fact many companies now hang portable projectors weighing less than 5 lbs, in conference rooms. When we refer to fixed/install models, we are primarily referring to heavier units that are more full featured, most typically offering interchangeable lenses, and lens shift, and lots of lumens.

In the portable projector arena, the smallest/lightest projectors around are DLP projectors. This has been true for about 7 years. If you want a 2 or 3 pound projector, today, it is DLP. (Although Panasonic, this month, just announced the first under 3 lb. LCD projector - at 2.9 pounds, with SVGA resolution). The lightest XGA resolution LCD projector is currently 3.7 pounds and there are only a handful under 5 pounds. By comparison, there are probably 3 dozen DLP projectors between 1.98 and 4 pounds. So if you want the lightest and smallest it will be a DLP projector.

The big question is, if you don’t mind a bit more weight - 4 to 7 pound projectors, or you need more features or performance found in the smallest and lightest, what the advantages of each technology, and which is best for you?

LCD Projectors: Strengths

•Richer color dynamics for better results in rooms with ample ambient light
•Draw less power
•Throw less heat
•No color filter wheel = No "rainbow effect"
•Slightly quieter Seemingly sharper image on data
Quicktip: Figure you need about 30% more lumens in a DLP projector to hold its own with an LCD model.

DLP Projectors: Strengths

•Smoother video
•Smaller box
•Pixels far less visible, (although normally not an issue for business use)
•More “filmlike” on DVD and HDTV
•Generate "blacker" blacks
•Higher contrast
LCD Projectors: Disadvantages

•More visible pixels
•Some screen door effect on certain video images
•Physically larger - Even for the same number of lumens
•Poorer contrast
•Blacks come out lighter gray than DLP prrojectors
DLP Projectors: Disadvantages

•Rainbow effect bothers some
•More moving parts (color filter wheel)
•Color filter wheel often produces soft but audible whine
•Poorer reds and yellows at full power
•Color saturation
•Need more lumens than LCD, for rich colors, when dealing with ambient light

2010-02-25T15:32:00.001+00:00

checking to see my multiple site blogging in action

We're Here

2010-02-25T13:00:00.000+00:00

Thanks to the advent of social networking, welcome to the HarrogateHomeCinema Blog! here we will discuss all things home cinema related, including news, reviews, facts and help regarding home cinema, multiroom audio, home automation, home networking, and all things relating to integrated technologies. Thanks for stopping by!