Epson PowerLite S3 LCD Projector by Epson
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Digital camera reviews of Epson PowerLite S3 LCD Projector
Digital camera Review: Much better than you would expect
Summary: 5 Stars
I put off purchasing this projector for about six months, as I was not convinced that I would be happy with the picture quality of a $700 projector. I finally decided to take a chance and ordered it a couple of weeks ago. I am extremely happy I did.
I worked in Audio/Video sales and installations for 3 years, and when shopping for gear, I am pretty picky when it comes to sound and picture quality. I use the Epson s3 exclusively for watching movies, and feel the resolution of the s3 is so much better than I had ever expected. I really can't complain about it at all.
I am sure you would get better picture from a $2000+ projector (with blacker blacks and better contrast), but for the money, I really can't fault the s3... and I have rather sharp eyes.
I operate it at about 10ft from the (white) wall, and get a fabulous large image (about 80")that is very sharp. Not grainy or exposing the lines. Using the remote control, it took all of about 5 minutes to set up... and that included slightly adjusting the color and brightness to my liking. I only watch movies at night, so I am not sure how it operates in a room with some light - but I would imagine it is best suited to absolute darkness.
My only gripe is that the sliding bolt that drops down from the front of the base of the unit, to allow you to prop-up or angle the projector (when placed on a low shelf/table), is made of very flimsy plastic. I am concerned that such a part wouldn't last too long if you are planning on moving it around regularly.
I am currently using the s-video port, and the picture is fantastic. I imagine if you were to use a component cable and activate progressive scan, the resolution would be even better. As a testament to how good this projector is - so far I can't see the need to go out and spend money on a component cable, as I am perfectly satisfied.
To those that are unsure about the capabilities of such an afforable projector, trust me - this is a BARGAIN and it truly delivers. Transform your living room for just $700. One of my best electrical purchases.
Some (hopefully) useful production info:
I came across some faulty information on this projection once. The correct info is: this projector features vertical (UP and DOWN) keystone correction ONLY, and NOT horizontal (L/R - or "side-to-side") correction. To the beginner: this means that you must have your room layed out in a way that allows the projector to be postion dead centre (from L to R) in front of the screen/wall you wish you project on to. Thanks to the vertical correction, however, the height of the projector position is not important.
And for some info on the throw distance/screen size: The maximum image is 300".
4' - 6' throw will give you a 40" to "50 inch screen. 6' - 8' will give you a 50" to 60" screen. 9'-10' gives roughly 80", 10' to 13' gives about 100". According to the brochure, you will get a 200" image from a throw distances of about 20'-25', but my room isn't big enough to try this... and I would assume at that size, you would then start to see the resolution picuture quality tumble.
As mentioned, I run it at about 80" and it looks brilliant. Hope this info helps.
***UPDATE MAY 2006***
I have had this projector for over 4 months now - and generally watch 2 films a weeks. I am still extremely pleased with its performance. I notice that one review on here complains about 'grainy picture' - I believe this is caused by a poor quality disc used by the reviewer. I have watched about 30 movies on my projector now, and provided the DVD is of decent quality (eg. the digital conversion isn't cheaply done) I haven't experienced any problems with picture quality. I'm als running it on 'low' brightness - as the globe will last longer, and the image quality is still great.
I keep waiting to discover the downside of this projector... but I can't seem to find one for $700.
I keep it on a shelf when it's not in use, and then rest it on a foldout $10 coffee table/tv tray in the centre of the room when in use. This only requires a s-video cable, and allows greater flexibility with placement/projection size. The reason I bought this projector is because I wanted a big screen without an ugly TV filling my room - so personally I think using it this way beats having it installed. This also allows the flexibility of putting it in the suppliedcarry bag and taking it to friends places to watch "big games" - or even host "outdoor cinema" nights in the backyard by projecting onto a white sheet.
Just buy this projector. It's a steal and a lot of fun!
****UPDATE: NOVEMBER 2009****
This project is still going strong. I now have it permanently mounted on my ceiling and use it several times a week to watch movies. It hasn't skipped a beat and I consider it one of the best value purchases I have ever made. Epson doesn't make these anymore but if you can pick one up used or on clearance for under $500 you won't be disappointed.
Digital camera Review: EXCELLENT PRODUCT
Summary: 5 Stars
Excellent even in light room.. Much better than its Epson predecessor.
Excellent projection for home theater and multimedia presentation. Just waiting for the free screen offer from EPSON to be deliver
Digital camera Review: Excellent Projector!
Summary: 5 Stars
Worked right out of the box and easy to hookup. Automatically detects which input your video source is coming from. Remote control is easy to use (don't buy a projector without a remote or you will regret it). Picture quality is outstanding - better than the LCD rear projection I used to own. I highly recommend it for the money. Digital camera Review: Amazing Projector
Summary: 5 Stars
Very satisfied with the brightness, resolution and image quality... I can play dvd's smooth and computer projection right out the box. Easy setup.Digital camera Review: Wonderful media experience
Summary: 5 Stars
All the good things that you have heard about this projector are true. Just plug in and you are ready to go. Excellent for DVD projection right on you living room wall. Easy to use for your work presentations from a laptop computer.