I guess I'm the only one to try the filter so far. Get one on the way home and try it out. lmk

I'm not sure on the size, maybe I have a 55mm. It sits inside the lens away from the actual glass. There's breathing area above and since my PJ is tilted up a little it just balances there without any taping.

The lens is the size everybody used for the LT150, maybe I can check for the exact size. Search time

update ---
It's a 49mm that we all used on the LT150. It's good that it's smaller than the H30 lens because it allows some breathing. It you have to you can tape it with velco, try to leave some breathing room. The breathing thing is probably over blown,we got this caution from the NEC HT1000 manual.

I've checked the filter after several hours of use and it stays cool. Nobody ever worried about it with the LT150.

Jason,

I was just wondering, can you see any differences when comparing "straight" playback in Zoomplayer vs. anamorphic with 16:9 on the pj? I tried the latter today with Underworld and I couldn't spot any differences from the "regular mode". Is there something special I should be looking for?

Just curious, what is the longest thread ever on AVS? Is this one close?

Not even close. This thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=28456) is not only much longer, but it's a continuation of two previous threads that were so long they were closed by David Bott.

So, keep those cards and letters comin'. :D

MrJones ,
--- The difference is not easy to see unless you have a trained eye [ I do from years of CRT projection ] . Remember that what some see others will not even notice , some people do not see things even after they have been pointed out . This has nothing to do with your eyesight either , it is all in the way your brain responds to optical input . So if you think they are equal and one way works better for your set-up then by all means use it ;) . There is not a huge difference in doing anamorphic and letting the H30 do the squeeze but to my eyes it is slightly better [smoother] .
----- Jason

Jason,

Do you use your FV2000 as a tuner or just a capture card? I get better picture using my JVC SVHS VCR to tune rather than the TV's tuner. I'm wondering if the same will be true with a TV/capture card.

The reason for all this madness is that the FV2000 is a mono tuner. :(

Thanks.

clamrade ,
--- I only use it for S-Video input - sorry .
________________________________


Ok , after being into CRT projection for a while you get to learn all the extra items that can make your image even better and I just got curious tonight and tried one of those CRT tricks ;) .
--- I am talking about an Extron Interface . I am not even sure if anybody has tried this yet with a Digital PJ but let me tell you that it works and works well IMO . Now with older CRT PJ's we used the Boost function but stay away from this with Digital [ unless you have a long cable run ] as it is not needed or wanted [ keep the signal at .7v for a Digital ] .
--- What I did use is the Peaking function to add detail [ sharpness ] . Now I know you are thinking 'sheesh man isn't digital already sharp enough for you ' or ' yeah but I bet you have serious ringing or EE happening now ' ... the answer on both counts is Nope :) . I only used a very slight amount of peaking and the image is literally POPPING off the screen [ even more so than before ] . Now I am using a higher end model Extron with High Bandwidth [ an older model - the 202plus ] so I am not sure if the lower models will give the same results . I certainly was not expecting much and I was really only wanting to see how I could do with a 50' VGA cable since using it alone created some problems with the image [ a red push and ringing ] . I am watching 'Finding Nemo' right now and almost cannot believe what I am seeing ... this is just unreal ;) . I cannot do any screen-shots right now since my wife is sleeping in the room with the camera :( .
--- I keep pausing to watch as I try and type this ... I am astounded and almost speechless at this point [ now what have I done , just can't leave things alone ;) ] .

------- Jason

I know this subject is hmm overtalked but i have one question to you all H30 users.

How is the rbe when you have subtitles under the picture. I didnt see many rbe on the picture but i see it as a problem on the subtitles when i loook at the x1/4800.

How is this problem on h30?

Ok Jason, I thought it'd be something like that. Think I'll stick with the 4x3 native for the time being. Your talk of green push earlier scared me a bit, but I couldn't for the life of me see anything else but perfect colors (though my eyes aren't that "trained" either ;)), clearly better than my admittedly somewhat uncalibrated Z1.

draags: I'd say I see about double the amount of rainbows when I have subtitles on, though I haven't compared directly with having them off on the same DVD. They're so fast I'm not really bothered by them anyway, and luckily I don't get any eyestrain either.

I saw demo of Infocus 5700 today. the picture quality is totally amazing. however, i still see quite a lot of rainbows. do u guys think that i will see less with the H30? (i saw the demo of H30 twice and see some rainbows)
can i get used of DLP pj and see less rainbows in the future.
Sorry to ask these again and again. I just want to make sure this thing.

draags ,
--- I don't see any RB's with pure white subtitles but I can make them out with large white scrolling credits .
___________
MrJones ,
--- Yeah it really is not a huge difference and the H30 already looks so good as it is ;) .
___________
yipchunyu ,
--- If you had RB's with a 5700 then you might have problems with the H30 as well since the 5700 actually has a faster color wheel [ 5x ] compared to the 4x of the H30 .
___________
------ Jason

Originally posted by MikeSRC
Ronald, 15 is pretty high for keystone correction. Can you adjust your mounting angle or height to improve on that?

Hi MikeSRC,

Well I wish I knew a way to improve on this. My projecta screen is mounted to the ceiling and the projector is also mounted close to the ceiling. I had to tilt the projector quite a lot.

How could I resolve this? Lowering the projector will make things worse I guess and lowering the screen is not an option unfortunatly.

I guess waiting for the new firmwarre will be my only option :P

Best regards,

PS. Eagerly awaiting for the release date of the 16:9 lens mask :)

The digital shift firmware will fix your problem. Lets hope Wing was off when hesaid it's 6months away.

What's blocking you from lowering the screen? What about using L-brackets to extend the screen out and wires to lower it down. That's what I do to clear the fireplace wall. Your sound will benefit by this also, let alone the best viewing area is 1/3 into the bottom of the screen.

Stupid dell canceled my order for no reason, they have no idea what is going on over there, now I've got to call, and try to get it straightened out. Does anyone else know of a good place to buy to Optoma with a good return policy?

Originally posted by guitarman
The digital shift firmware will fix your problem. Lets hope Wing was off when hesaid it's 6months away.

What's blocking you from lowering the screen? What about using L-brackets to extend the screen out and wires to lower it down. That's what I do to clear the fireplace wall. Your sound will benefit by this also, let alone the best viewing area is 1/3 into the bottom of the screen.

I will be waiting for the new firmware then. I hope the local dealer is able and willing to upgrade it by then :P

I cannot lower it because it is mounted onthe ceiling above a sideboard (Or dresser or whatever it is called in english, it's dressoir in my language). This sideboard is containing my TV. This setup seems likte the very best compromis in my livingroom.

O boy I am even more anger to get that 16:9 lens mask :P

Best regards,

Ronald

Originally posted by yipchunyu
I saw demo of Infocus 5700 today. the picture quality is totally amazing. however, i still see quite a lot of rainbows. do u guys think that i will see less with the H30? (i saw the demo of H30 twice and see some rainbows)
can i get used of DLP pj and see less rainbows in the future.
Sorry to ask these again and again. I just want to make sure this thing.
Find a reseller who loans you the H30 or rent one. Sensitivity to RBE is very personal. I am very sensitive to it and when using subtitles it gets unbearable. Fortunately I have no problem understanding English so for 99% of my DVDs this is no problem. My family members do not see RBE at all, not even when I explain what they are. The human eye is an amazing thing..
On the up side: even when you are very sensitive to RBE you can get used to it, in fact when you are "in" a movie and no longer "analyze" the image, you will notice RBE less and less until it is no longer a problem. Despite this little annoyance, I still prefer the H30's image quality over its sterile LCD counterpart.

Originally posted by Mike Versteeg
Find a reseller who loans you the H30 or rent one. Sensitivity to RBE is very personal. I am very sensitive to it and when using subtitles it gets unbearable. Fortunately I have no problem understanding English so for 99% of my DVDs this is no problem. My family members do not see RBE at all, not even when I explain what they are. The human eye is an amazing thing..
On the up side: even when you are very sensitive to RBE you can get used to it, in fact when you are "in" a movie and no longer "analyze" the image, you will notice RBE less and less until it is no longer a problem. Despite this little annoyance, I still prefer the H30's image quality over its sterile LCD counterpart.

Mike,
There're no reseller can loan H30 in my place. So, it make me so concern about this. anyway, really thx for your advice. I think i will buy H30 in the near future (once the updated firmware and len caps). Hope that the RBE will never bother me again.

"mounted onthe ceiling above a sideboard "

ok you must have a fixed screen, a pulldown screen would hv given you the option to move it out and retact out of the way. You could pin some kind of black cloth above in the area where you see the light spill temporarily.

Originally posted by yipchunyu
There're no reseller can loan H30 in my place. So, it make me so concern about this.
I live in the Netherlands and could not find one either so, based on Tom the Guiterman's fine posts I took the gamble and ordered one. No regrets.

This thread is a fabulous read.

Tom, I believe you have single handedly outsold the entire marketing division on the H30. Optoma is in your debt.

Now, when is Optoma going to answer the IF 5700 challenge? Methinks they can do and do it at an H30 price. But, will they?

Good idea, a matterhorn Optoma should be made. Next time I talk Wing I'll ask.

Their marketing guy did call me to ask if he could use my review. Almost famous again. This is just as good as when I played with the Ramones. ;)

My first post after almost 2 years of hanging in the shadows :)

Anyways.. I have the h30 on order and after browsing this thread for a long time I still have a couple of issues I quite haven't figured out yet..

If I want to use an anamorphic lens with the h30 I understand that with the old firmware I'd need to use a HTPC. This is no problem for me but what about when watching 4:3/letterboxed material? Would I need to remove the lens or is there a mode on the projector that would allow 4:3 being displayed with black bars on the sides for example? Does anybody have information how using a lens will be affected with the new firmware?

I'm a bit worried about the large offset I keep reading about since I only have about a 7' ceiling in my HT-room. I've got a 96" low-gain carada on order and I was hoping to mount it so that the bottom of the image would be about 2 feet from the ground. I guess I might have to compromise a bit with how low the screen is and how much keystone I'm willing to use. Would using an anamorphic lens help me in this area as well?

I have spent the last 4 days going through this thread! I am totally impressed by what I'm reading of this machine for the $, and grateful to everyone who's participated and shared their experience. And now, I have a few questions. First off, this will be my first PJ. I am currently a fairly happy Mitsubishi VS70709 70" 4:3 RPTV owner. I'm planning a couple of moves in the next few years, and rather than have to move this huge set around, I want to switch to the portability of a PJ - I believe I'll also be getting an 'upgrade' of sorts (which, 4 years ago when I bought the TV, I wouldn't have come close to getting better PQ from a PJ at the same price point as the Mitsu). I am certain the H30 is for me, based on everything I've read here.

For the next 12-18 months, we'll be living in an apartment, while our house is being built. Once in the house, I'll have a lot of flexibility as far as screen size, mounting, placement, etc. Until then, while in the apartment, I need some help from all the experts here in how to choose the best screen for my current application.

I'll have a 12x19' living room, that will do double-duty as our theater setup. The PJ will be on a coffee table, along the 12' wall, so the screen can be as far away as about 17' (allowing some room behind both the screen and PJ ends) - of course, it could also be closer - anywhere between the PJ and the far wall. Our chairs for viewing will be on either side of the coffee table holding the PJ (so we're the same distance from the screen as the PJ is). I will feed the PJ from an HTPC (VGA). Because of the temporary nature of the setup, I don't want to mount anything, and will therefore be looking at 'tripod' screens, that I can easily set up and break down for movies. My price range will be $200 and under for this temporary setup. Finally, there will be SOME ability to control light - we'll mostly only break out the screen for a movie at night - so little to no light entering through the one window in the room (which is directly behind the PJ and our seats). On occasion, there MAY be some daylight for an afternoon show, but not often.

Hopefully, this is enough information (probably too much) for everyone to help answer the following questions:

Screen size - I'd like to get as large an image as possible, but still maintain the best quality picture I can. I believe one advantage I'll have with a tripod type screen is I don't really have to settle on a format, especially if I'm reading right that in a coffee table setup, the image (whether 4x3 or 16x9) will always be at the bottom of the screen. In theory at least, I should be able to open the screen only as far as I need to, to accomodate the ratio of the material we're watching. If I'm wrong about this, and ratio does matter in this specific situation, we're probably looking at 16x9 about 2/3 of the time, and 4x3 (again, through VGA, so using the whole 800x600) the other 1/3. With all this in mind, how wide of a screen should I be considering - factoring in distance, ambient light, PQ, etc.?

Screen material/gain - this is where I think I'll need the most help, since I'm really a 'rookie' in this area. I'm currently looking mostly at Da-Lite tripod screens, and have read a lot here about how some materials are better suited for ceiling mount, where others are better suited for the coffee table situation. Again, considering all of the above, is there a particular color/material/gain/etc. factor that I should be looking at over the others to get the best PQ, avoid 'waves', and be best suited to my 'mostly dark, but occasionally some daylight' scenario?

Thanks for taking the time to read through this - I REALLY appreciate all the help you've all given me (and I'm sure countless other lurkers like me) in choosing this PJ, and any input you have about my screen choice.

...Charlie

Both will be fine with those rooms sizes even with 7' ceilings. I figure 4.3 material will hv to have an anamorphic lens swung away.

Is there a way to get an anamorphic lens for the H30 for under $200 that is good? I would consider an upgrade like that, but if it was much more I might as well just buy a better PJ.

Another question, I was noticing that the Benq 6200 is $1499 with a free lamp, which would really put the price down below the H30. However the 6200 only has a 3x color wheel, but the high resolution. I have no rainbow problems myself, or have I met anyone that could even see them on the X1. I had problems with my 6100 with a wiggling brighter area at the top of DVD images, but I don't think the 6200 wouldn't have that problem because it's resizing the image differently. Anyway, any opinions on which would be the better way to go. I would just get the 6200 to try, but the good price is at Tigerdirect and they charge a restocking fee.

Best to read reviews on the 6200. Most of the excitement re the H30 is the DDR chip and the RGB/RGB colorwheel. We just got lucky with zippy colors and a superior pixel fill.

From what I've learned the presentation type white segment color wheel is less desirable for colors and blacks over the RGB/RGB type, it's not just the rainbows. Is it a very big difference, yes it is.

Well I believe RGBW projectors cut off use of the W portion for video mode, so I wonder if it's much different in that case.

From the DLP's that I have seen I would certainly have to say that the RGBW wheel is surpassed by the RGBRGB design [ even in Video mode with the white segment off ] .
_____________________

Has anybody had the bulb out of the H30 as of yet ?
--- I am just curious if the Color Wheel is visible and can therefore be cleaned [ after seeing Guy's post on his HT1000 I am now concerned about build up on the color wheel ] .
_____________________

I am also very shocked that nobody here questioned my post about the Extron Interface , I guess most here are not HT geeks like myself ;) .
_____________________

------ Jason

Originally posted by DaGamePimp
From the DLP's that I have seen I would certainly have to say that the RGBW wheel is surpassed by the RGBRGB design [ even in Video mode with the white segment off ] .

I agree. The BenQ 6100 I currently have for review does not have the same pop I remember with the H30, plus, turning off the white segment (usually in Cinema mode) cuts the lumen output in half.


Has anybody had the bulb out of the H30 as of yet ?
--- I am just curious if the Color Wheel is visible and can therefore be cleaned [ after seeing Guy's post on his HT1000 I am now concerned about build up on the color wheel ] .

Jason, I've got a dead H30 here I can check.


I am also very shocked that nobody here questioned my post about the Extron Interface , I guess most here are not HT geeks like myself ;) .
_____________________

------ Jason

That's true. Back to the HTPC forum with you! :D

Actually, I did look up your old model number, but couldn't find out much about it. What would be the current equivalent model?

Mike ,
--- Thanks for checking on the H30 color-wheel ;) .
--- The closest current model would be an Extron 202 Rxi or xi [ of course the new models are even more advanced but basically the same specs - or at least very close to the 202plus ] . I get a little too techie for my own good sometimes ;) .
-------- Thanks ,
---------- Jason

With the bulb out, you can see the color wheel behind a small (about 3/4" diameter) glass window. The window is screwed on and can be removed to access that one side of the color wheel. It looks to be pretty well sealed, so there shouldn't be a dust problem.

BTW, the Pixelworks chip used in the H30 is a PW166 (also used in the Toshiba MT8). The only info I could find on it is outlined here:
http://216.239.57.104/search?q=cache:f1EWyLp3Zw0J:www.neoview.com.tw/pixel/PW166-PW166B_Datasheet

Mike ,
--- Excellent news ! Thank You !!! :)
----- Jason

BTW, the Pixelworks chip used in the H30 is a PW166 (also used in the Toshiba MT8). The only info I could find on it is outlined here:



now that is saying alot because the tosh mt8 goes for how muchhhhh ?the answer is alot more .very impressive and also thanks mike for the the internal scoping because i was a little worried about dust getting in there and now i am more relaxed :) and mike ,tom who ever what hoya filter do we use for the optoma with the high power screen ?



and Jason nice pics and set up dude ;)

So with the large offset needed for the H30, how are you guys mounting it? I see where some of you are tilting it (and either using digital keystone or not, I suppose) but otherwise there's really no alternative flipping it upside down and hanging it from the ceiling, right? It seems like with a smallish screen you'd have to put it right on the floor rather than setting it on a table.

Or am I missing the point? Maybe I don't understand Tom's information about the offset. It just seems a bit inconvenient.

So with the large offset needed for the H30, how are you guys mounting it? I see where some of you are tilting it (and either using digital keystone or not, I suppose) but otherwise there's really no alternative flipping it upside down and hanging it from the ceiling, right? It seems like with a smallish screen you'd have to put it right on the floor rather than setting it on a table.


i have the pj in a small cabinet in the living room about a foot and a half of the floor and the pic is 2 to 2 1/2 feet of the ground so that should not be a problem ?


and the bed room set up is wall mounted about 8 feet high (turned upside down and the pic is about the same 2 to 2 1/2 feet of the ground , OK that should be all there :D

Originally posted by valkyrie
Now...time for the DIY screen for < $200. :) Any suggestions for inexpensive screen material?


I did my screen for under $100 following these instructions almost verbatim:

http://members.shaw.ca/danhanson/Theater/screen/screenproject.htm

If you hit the screen forum you'll get lots more info. So far I am loving my DIY screen. My original plan was to upgrade it once I had settled on a screen size but it looks (to me) fantastic and I've got a lot of compliments on it from friends who spent upwards of $1000 on their screens.

I used blackout fabric from Joann's, oak 1x4s, heavier-duty corner braces than the ones shown in the link above, and a TON of staples.

I couldn't be more happy with my screen, and with my H30! (I'm a newbie though, so YMMV.)

Originally posted by guitarman
ok you must have a fixed screen, a pulldown screen would hv given you the option to move it out and retact out of the way. You could pin some kind of black cloth above in the area where you see the light spill temporarily.

Hi Guitarman,

I agree that a fixed screen would be better (the wife wouldn't allow me to buy a fixed screen :P), but I still would not had been able to mount it any lower. See pics on http://www.ronaldverlaan.com/hometheater

Main problem with the ligth spill is that it is not on the wall but on the ceiling :( So I cannot mask it with black cloth on the wall..

Best Regards,

Ronald

Ronald-

I would guess given the scenarios you listed and in looking at your pictures that you will have to wait for the lens mask.

In looking at Ronalds pictures- Where would a 2.35 image land on his screen with the new firmware? All the way at the top with a smallish black bar at the bottom? It appears from his equipment rack that he is using a DVD player and not an HTPC.

MikeSRC- do you know anywhere Ronald can get a universal remote? :)

Hi :-)

One of those remotes on the picture IS an universal remote :-)
Also I forgot to add the 3 or 4 more remotes to the picture :P

Yes, I guess I should wait for the lens mask.. I check the Optoma website every hour or so to see if its already available ;-)

I do indeed use a standalone DVD player, I am not a fan of using a HTPC.

Thanx for you reply :)

Best regards,

Ronald

Ronald Hi :

From what i saw in your pictures you have the EUROPE version so i don't know if it the same but as posted before with the new firmware for the US version, when you have a set up like yours , the light spill will be bellow the picture. and in your case it's looks like it will be easier to deal with.
So maybe you should check with optoma UK for the firmware update ?

And maybe you can also take a few screen shots , just for us to drool a little bit ! ! !

Ariel

I'm back in the waiting for the PJ, I finally got my order that I didn't cancel reinstated at Dell. Of course it was a pain like calling them always is, but you can't beat their prices and return policy.

One thing I wonder, why if this is a dedicated home theater projector, why is there a vga port with an adapter instead of a real component input. Althogh I guess the vga port just passes the component signal into the unit, I still wonder why they did it this way.

I just thought of another question, I always assumed this projector let you display 4:3 material in a 16:9 window, but I was looking at the manual, and I can't find a mode that says it does this?

Originally posted by rsmith4321
I just thought of another question, I always assumed this projector let you display 4:3 material in a 16:9 window, but I was looking at the manual, and I can't find a mode that says it does this?

I believe dagamepimp has screenshots of it doing this on his site, check his profile.

rsmith4321 ,
--- Many Digital PJ's use that method to get the Component signal into the projector [ nothing that is exclusive to Optoma ] .
--- You simply have to hit the 4:3 mode button on the remote and if you are not using an RGB source then you will have a 4:3 image in the middle of your 16:9 screen . I do not operate my H30 in this manner since I use an HTPC which opens the entire 800x600 (4:3) panel , so if I want to use 4:3 then my image actually becomes larger than my 16:9 image instead of being scaled to fit within the 16:9 area of the panel that is used with non-rgb sources . This is all normal operation for the H30 at this point but this will change when the new firmware is available .
-------- Jason

I have also decided not to do the Omnimount AB2 for ceiling mounting my H30 because I found this mount : http://www.panavise.com/f/cctv/cctv_deluxe.html
--- The Panavise mount has 4 mounting holes to the ceiling vs. the 2 that you find on most speaker mounts plus it is more flexible as it can be twisted almost any direction [ very good tilt and swivel options ] . Remember as I stated in an earlier post that a safety cable should be used with these type of mounts since the projector is only held by the single 1/4-20 bolt - use one of the 3 mounting holes on the H30 for the safety cable [ these use a short 3mm machine bolt ] .

---- Thought this could be of interest to some of you not wanting to spend high dollar for a mount ;) [ this mount can be ordered for $17.00 - $18.00 plus shipping - I did not order direct ] .

-------- Jason

Thanks Pimp!
Did you mount it yet? Would getting the 9" instead of the 6 cause for less keystone? Also, I think it addresses the problem I had with my light that I mentioned in the h30 screen thread. There any tricks to using this mount or is this something a monkey could set up? No offense to other monkeys intended.

Interesting stuff Jason.. Is the screw coming out of the top of that unit in the picture a 1/4"x20 bolt or would a different one need to be attached to it? I don't think you would be able to get all four mounting screws into a ceiling joist as they appear a little to wide but you could do two in a joist and two in sheet rock anchors. It would guess it would still provide more stability than a two screw mounting as you mentioned.

Did you get the price direct from them or a distributor?

Thanks again for all your efforts..

Jason,

Your suggested mount is certainly cheaper than the other mounts I have seen...,

But do you think it will be as secure as the JayBlaine mount that uses the three mounting holes on the bottom of the projector?

Steve

You know if you step up one level on that web page- you see the other mount offerings they have as well. Take a look at the bits and pieces section. Same pieces only available individually, 3" option, telescoping option, what I think is very cool would be that jbox mounting option. If I had new construction going on- I would be on that like mud on a pig. Run your cables up to a jbox, drill out that hole in the plate a bit to allow for the larger connectors to get through- sweet.....

hikarate ,
--- I don't have it yet [ I will do a review when it arrives and I have mounted the H30 ] .
_________________
gottahavapj ,
--- That is the 1/4-20 bolt that is already there [ comes on the mount ] . Well the mount plate is 2.5"x2.5" so you might be right there but even so I feel better about 4 bolts vs. 2 even if they are not into wood ;) .
-- Price that I mentioned is from a reseller .
_________________
Steve ,
--- I am certainly not saying it is better than anything else , just a cheaper alternative style mount ;) . Consider however that the mount you mention still has the single 1/4-20 bolt holding the plate that the other 3 bolts use . To me this is really a non-issue as the PJ is only 4.5 lbs and I would use a safety cable with either mounting system . Since Tom uses the single 1/4-20 mount hole and has no issues I am fairly confident these types of mounts can and will work for most people [ however I certainly take no responsibility for a falling PJ based upon my suggested mount type ] .
-------- Jason

I just checked on the Optoma site for the screen size calculator and the Optoma H30 wasn't listed. It's strange because a week ago I am certain it was there. Could this be a sign (along with the one month wait time at the Dell site) that the delays are more than just firmware updates? Maybe Optoma is releasing an updated H30 model...

g

I was looking at the Panavise originally, but if you're screwing it directly to a 2X10 (or 2X anything) beam, the spread between the holes is too wide. I may end up mounting it on the back wall with the J-box mount though.

Originally posted by shatten22
I just checked on the Optoma site for the screen size calculator and the Optoma H30 wasn't listed.

It's always been (and currently is) available here (http://www.optomahometheater.com/content/calculator_index.htm).

--- I am just going to drill a couple more holes in the base to allow for the 2" wide beam [ that way I have 4 screws holding the mount to the ceiling ;) ] .

------ Jason

Good point Jason.. Just realize that a finished 2xwhatever is actually only like 1 1/2 or 1 5/8 wide or something like that. You would perhaps need to angle the screws in a bit.

You do make a lot of mentions/disclaimers, etc. on the safety cable. Is Vancouver, WA by chance on a fault line? :) I have no such worries here. I would for sure though string something up.

-- Well we do get an occasional after-shock here but I just think it would be asking for an accident if a safety cable were not used . You know the old 'anything that can wrong ... will go wrong' ;) .
-- I also will have a VGA cable connected to the H30 and when used with the thumb screws this should also act as a safety cable itself [ the cable will be fastened to the ceiling and wall and can certainly hold 4.5 lbs . - although I don't think I would like to test the strength of the VGA input in that manner ;) ] .
------- Jason

Originally posted by DaGamePimp
rsmith4321 ,
--- Many Digital PJ's use that method to get the Component signal into the projector [ nothing that is exclusive to Optoma ] .
--- You simply have to hit the 4:3 mode button on the remote and if you are not using an RGB source then you will have a 4:3 image in the middle of your 16:9 screen . I do not operate my H30 in this manner since I use an HTPC which opens the entire 800x600 (4:3) panel , so if I want to use 4:3 then my image actually becomes larger than my 16:9 image instead of being scaled to fit within the 16:9 area of the panel that is used with non-rgb sources . This is all normal operation for the H30 at this point but this will change when the new firmware is available .
-------- Jason

To me Digital TV looks terrible blown up to 4:3, and HDTV which will actually look good enough to be that large will be 16:9. So I see no point whatsoever in using more than a 4:3 box on a 16:9 screen, but that's just me I guess. And most cheap PJ's use VGA into component, but as far as I've seen most dedicated Home Theater PJ's have actual component inputs. Just wondering why optoma chose not to do that, for the extra price they charge.

rsmith4321 ,
--- Well I would have to say that for what you get the Optoma is a great deal , remember the H30 is an entry level Digital [ just that it performs well above an entry level price ;) ] .
--- And I have seen many HT digitals that use the Component over VGA method [ certainly some have straight component inputs as well but do any in this price range ? ] .
---------- Jason

I think a Hitachi Home-1 has direct component inputs and it is in the same price range. That may be the critter I have to investigate more if when you good folk get your firmware updates it puts the widescreen image way up at the top of a 4:3 screen. Remember it is not feasible from me to use HTPC. I suspect that would be the deal breaker for me as I will have to mount my 4:3 screen higher than I wish I would have to. I think it will look stupid way up by the ceiling. Oh well... we'll see... LCD projectors???? Hhmmmmmm......

I had an Epsom Home 10 in for review (same as the Hitachi Home 1) and it did have component inputs. I think the business projector background most of these manufacturers have is hard for them to shake. Why else would they bother with the carrying bag (although it's a nice one) that comes with the H30.

The Epson was nice (and has an incredibly short throw), but its PQ is not in the same ballpark as the H30. The advantage LCDs have in price for higher resolution projectors is not present in this price range, so I wouldn't consider it unless I was one of those who are DLP-intolerant.

Good points Mike.. carry bag- hehe.

I would really rather not even consider an LCD projector but with the several limiting factors I have in my "space"- the incredible throw range and the lens shift features of the Home-1 make it a contender. I just really hope it doesn't come to that..

If I wanted the best possible connection I would skip component and go with DVI. If the signal has to be translated to analog I don't see what the big deal is whether you go with Component, VGA, or S-Video. I wouldn't consider another DLP projector because it has component, if it has a digital connection, then that would be worth considering, but there isn't anything in this price range that I know of. Plus look at the screenshots!

Well there will be 1 in this price range very soon [ with DVI and the new DDR native 16:9 panel ] . Now will it out perform the H30 ... yet to be seen .
;)
---- Jason

Yeah but that also requires most people to also purchase a new DVD player and a long DVI cable which probably will cost as much as the new DVD player :). For me at least the H30 just seems perfect to hold me over until I buy all new stuff and just update everything a few years down the road when HD-DVD is out and everything is hopefully standardized and affordable. I came into this looking for a cheap RPTV though, so compared to my original expectations, the H30 is off the chart. I am just glad Tom started this thread and piqued the interest of so many people here. Thanks again to everyone for your recommendations and sharing your experience. I wish everything I purchased had the backing of such knowledgable people.
This is really a great forum.

does anyone here run a 92" diagonal 16:9 screen? if so how is the SDE and what is your viewing distance? i am just trying to work out a screen size so i can have one made before the projector comes

thanks

Originally posted by DaGamePimp
rsmith4321 ,
--- Well I would have to say that for what you get the Optoma is a great deal , remember the H30 is an entry level Digital [ just that it performs well above an entry level price ;) ] .
--- And I have seen many HT digitals that use the Component over VGA method [ certainly some have straight component inputs as well but do any in this price range ? ] .
---------- Jason

In addition to what others mentioned the HP VP6110 has real component inputs for under $1000, in fact I can't think of one projector advertised for home theater that doens't have component inputs. I don't think it really matters, but I just wonder why optoma didn't include them, it's just a little less chance of signal interference from an adapter.

Originally posted by torontomapleleaf
does anyone here run a 92" diagonal 16:9 screen? if so how is the SDE and what is your viewing distance? i am just trying to work out a screen size so i can have one made before the projector comes

thanks

Yes. That's what I have. My viewing distance is about 12.5', but there's no visible SD at 1.5 X width (10'). Any closer and it becomes apparent (but not objectionable IMO) in bright (or white) scenes.

Jason,

When you switch between the 4:3 mode and 16:9 mode, do you angle your PJ differently and/or cover up a portion of your screen?

Because of the large image tilt (w/o keystone) and the tendency of the PJ to use the top portion of the screen in 16:9 mode (when ceiling mounted), I am having difficulty coming up with an elegant solution suitable for both aspect ratios.

I could get a pull-down, but that has problems of its own.

Thanks.

BTW, I see Panavise availble at Amazon.

<<I don't think it really matters, but I just wonder why optoma didn't include them, it's just a little less chance of signal interference from an adapter.>>

If this really bothers you, either home-brew your own cable with RCA on one end and VGA connector on the other, or buy one - they are available, and no more expensive than a straight component cable.

I think Optoma did it just, well, 'because'. The HTPC guys prefer the VGA connector, I'm sure, to a component one...

My DVD player has a VGA out, but I can't use a straight VGA cable to the H30 because LG has blocked the VGA out for copy protected DVD's for some reason on the LST-3510a. If there is a firmware tweak in the future for this DVD player to allow all output to the VGA connector, I'll be glad Optima did it the way they did it.

John F

-- Well the obvious answer here is to cut production costs [ as for the direct component input ] . Certainly it would be great to have both VGA and Component inputs so that one could switch between the 2 on the fly but there are other methods of doing this with the way the H30 is designed [ VGA switcher box with your component sources using a VGA to component cable and VGA sources run direct RGB(vga) ] . This is how I do it since my HTPC uses VGA but my Xbox and HD receiver use Component [ also using an Extron helps me compensate for any signal loss from the switcher or the cables ] . I know this is a more complex set-up than most would prefer but once done it is very simple to operate and works great IMO ;) .

___________________

clamrade ,
--- I have not ceiling mounted my H30 as of yet [ waiting for the mount to show ] but I will let you know how it works out . I am using the Optical Zoom to shoot 4:3 & 16:9 within my screen area [ I cannot just switch modes on the remote ] .
___________________
---- Jason

Originally posted by arieldr

From what i saw in your pictures you have the EUROPE version so i don't know if it the same but as posted before with the new firmware for the US version, when you have a set up like yours , the light spill will be bellow the picture. and in your case it's looks like it will be easier to deal with.
So maybe you should check with optoma UK for the firmware update ?

And maybe you can also take a few screen shots , just for us to drool a little bit ! ! !

Ariel

Hi Ariel,

Sure I will check with Optoma UK as soon as the firmware is released :) Having the ligth spill below will enable me to decrease the tilting up of the projector thus decreasing the amount of needed keystone correction.

I will make some screenshots soon :)

Best regards,

Ronald

I got my h30 last thursday and never looked back lol...
Dvd's are AWESOME! Looks so good you can't even describe it.
Computer gaming is better than expected!
Everyone that has seen it wants one now, I blew all my friends away.
Direct tv looks like crap the signal is just plain noisey compared to dvd.
I asume it's the svideo I am useing on the old rca reciver and if I upgraded to the newer reciever(sony 300 1080?) It would look better (I hope).
I am broke and couldn't afford a mount right now so I scrounged the cheapest mount ever FREE! I used a promedia klipsch speaker stand I had laying around, screwed it to the ceiling and used a bolt, washer and nut. combination. hehe just for the time being, I will purchase a proper mount
at a later date..
Sorry pics so bad useing webcam hehe...

2

"I got my h30 last thursday and never looked back lol...
Dvd's are AWESOME! Looks so good you can't even describe it."

Another happy new owner.

Tom -

You must be getting a great deal of personal gratification from others' happiness with their H30 purchase (mine included.) Plus, you steered me to the DaLite model B High Power, which has worked out perfectly for my application.

You evaluated a product which works well, put that into words with enthusiasm and conviction, and convinced many of us to spend a good bit of change - and we are all happy as pigs in s*** with 'our' decision.

Thanks.

Mike, this goes for you as well, and more recently DaGamePimp - hell, we're all in on it now to some degree...

John F
Las Vegas, NV

Thx, this was an easy win for me. I knew the projector had promise but had no idea it would be as good as it is. Hence the excitment of starting the review.

Originally posted by torontomapleleaf
does anyone here run a 92" diagonal 16:9 screen? if so how is the SDE and what is your viewing distance? i am just trying to work out a screen size so i can have one made before the projector comes

thanks

I use a 96" diagonal Carada Brilliant White screen, 16:9 1.78 A/R. My viewing distance is only about 11', so we do see very slight SDE. But, since our eyes easily adjust to this, and the fact that the next projector we get when we upgrade will eliminate the SDE all together, we figured we might as well get the biggest screen our wall can hold, so we don't end up buying another screen in the future.

MikeSRC.................

Are you still waiting to get your projector back??

Steve

Yes. I'm supposed to call them tomorrow to confirm that it will be done this week. Fingers crossed.

hey guys

can someone tell me if the h30 is DDR DLP chip or are they all DDR. Just what is DDR and how does it help?

http://www.dlp.com/dlp_technology/dlp_technology_feature_article_1.asp

Note that Infocus X1 and Viewsonic PJ250 are listed as using DDR so its not just the H30, but there are other factors to consider other than just contrast when bringing an image to the screen. Hopefully someone more knowledgeable than me will fill in the rest.

EDIT
This is a good sales article too that I found, don't know if it has been posted before, don't remember seeing it on my 3 day trek through this thread last week...
http://hiddenwires.co.uk/resourcesnews/news20031216-09.html

Also should mention that data is sent to the mirrors twice as fast so it helps cut down on the rainbow effect. Basically "Its all good".
Covered at the bottom of this article.
http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_10_3/feature-article-dlp-vs-lcd-which-is-better-7-2003.html

And finally, Thanks for asking! I didn't know what DDR did either until I googled all this stuff!

Actually, it's been asked once or twice before just in this thread, but its so long now that it's easier to find by searching on Google. :D

My earlier post seems to have gotten lost in the shuffle - I'm sure SOMEONE must have a recommendation for a screen for this scenario:

* H30 will be on a coffee-table, positioned in between our two chairs (viewing distance will be virtually the same as throw distance).

* I'll be feeding the PJ from an HTPC (VGA)

* Due to the temporary nature of my setup, I'll be using a tripod screen to setup and break down as needed. Can be positioned anywhere up to about 17' from PJ.

* We'll mostly watch movies at night, so there won't be much light in the room, but, there is no light control, so there could be some ambient light at times (one window, directly behind our seating, we can block most daytime light with curtains, but again, our use will be mostly at night).

I'd like to get the largest screen possible, still maintaining the best PQ (don't we all?) I'm mostly looking at "da-lite" screens - but my biggest concern is which material is best? I've read some screen types/colors are better for coffee table vs. ceiling mounts, as well as dealing with ambient light.

I'm seriously looking at the 84" wide glass beaded "high gain" screen, which I suppose would put me somewhere around 13'-15' distance according to the calculator at ProjectorCentral. Am I correct that in this case ratio (4:3 vs. 16:9) shouldn't be a problem, since with a tripod screen, I can open it as much (or as little) as needed?

Would this be a bad choice based on all of the above? Something better for my situation?

Thanks...

...Charlie

Well finally after almost 2 months I received my PJ. I was told it was going to ship after the firmware update from the factory. So, How can I tell if I got the upgrade or not??????

I can't decide whether to just get the H30 or wait a little while longer and get the 4805. Can any of you H30 or dpl projector gurus outline the possible relative advantages and disadvantages of the 4805 vs the H30. Spec wise, both appear to be nearly identical.
I'm mostly interested in DVD viewing. Although I'm sensitive to the RBE (that's why I couldn't keep the X1 even though the PQ was great) I willing to try a DLP with faster wheel because I haven't found the LCDs to be comprable.

H30 has a shorter throw lens than the IF 4805.

STeve

I'll take a crack at this.....

I believe you're correct in that the specs are almost identical: color wheel type, speed, inputs, etc. The only major difference is that the H30 is a native 4:3 projector that (for now) is masked down to 16:9. You can open the full 800x600 image right now when using an HTPC as your source or by ensuring the unit you buy has the updated firmware that they have indicated is shipping this week. The 4805 is a native 16:9 projector and will show a 4:3 image in the middle 2/3 of a 16:9 screen.

Won't the 4805 also have a DVI input? This is supposed to make quite a dramatic change in the pureness of the image as all the processing is done digitally and no analog conversion is necessary.

Both gottahavapj & hikarate are absolutely Correct!

See how much we are improving our minds on this thread!!

Steve

I've seen the difference in DVI vs a good component signal, it's not dramatic at all, just a subtle difference.

Re the 4805, it's first going to have to be better over all in stunning picture quality, luminance and colors. This is the area where the H30 shines, other than then super pixel fill. The 4805 has a tough road ahead.

Optoma has added the full 800X600 firmware for component while still maintaining the 16.9 masked mode. Plus the addition of the lens mask for the 16.9 mode which boosts contrast even more to 2500.1.

It will be very interesting when the two can finally be compared. I don't think the new owners of the H30 have anything to lose sleep over. You have to see one in action.

Forgot about the DVI... good point.

I'd say that if 4:3 material in a larger display is important to you the H30 is your choice. You have indicated that DVD viewing is your primary interest. In that case it may be worth waiting for the 4805 to ship and let someone do a side by side comparison with the H30 and perhaps others. DVI input is a pretty attractive feature but I really wonder how long a DVI interface in its current configuration will be the ticket. I could envision that 1 year from now we're sitting here saying- " Yep it has DVI, but it's not a reverse combobulated HDMI double edge connected IEEE1394 DVI, shoot! You'd almost think it's a conspiracy by the manufacturers, but then I think everything is a conspiracy :)

Cheers!

I hope someone with good knowledge of tripod and high gain screens and the H30 answers cgrey's questions from the previous page. He has patiently posted several times looking for help and there's nobody better at it than you guys...

Cheers!...

gottahavapj --

You are NOT paranoid, if they REALLY are out to GET you!

Steve

cgrey ,
-- Well my screen experience is very limited when it comes to Digital Projection so I will let Tom or Mike have at it ;) . I do think your plan sounds very good for a portable system however [ sounds as if you have thought it out and made your plan :) ] .
______________________________

-- My plan of using the Extron Interface just ended , even though it certainly makes the image 'POP' . It would seem that the Extron is changing my Phase adjustment at will , no reason that I can tell and I have tried everything I can think of to fix it with no luck :( . It causes the H30 to lose proper Phase which distorts the image and makes for a nasty red push . Ah well ... can't win em' all ;) .

____________________________
--------- Jason

Gee thanks Steve- I might as well stay up all night as I'll never sleep now :)

gottahavapj ,
--- Shhhh ... don't type so loud .... they can
- What Was That ? , did you hear that .... it sounded like it was coming from ...







-
-
:)
----- Jason

Jason is even putting the hex on me now.. it is really time for bed.

Cheers!

I hear the Holiday Inn Express has some rooms available if you need to get away quick ............... ;) .
--- Have a Great Night :)
------- Jason

Originally posted by guitarman
I've seen the difference in DVI vs a good component signal, it's not dramatic at all, just a subtle difference.

Re the 4805, it's first going to have to be better over all in stunning picture quality, luminance and colors. This is the area where the H30 shines, other than then super pixel fill. The 4805 has a tough road ahead.

Optoma has added the full 800X600 firmware for component while still maintaining the 16.9 masked mode. Plus the addition of the lens mask for the 16.9 mode which boosts contrast even more to 2500.1.

It will be very interesting when the two can finally be compared. I don't think the new owners of the H30 have anything to lose sleep over. You have to see one in action.

I too ordered my H30, as I do not think that the 4805, marketed under the Screen Play name and not Infocus, will be as competitively priced. :)

Well I hope to do a direct comparison [ shootout if you will ] once the 4805 is made available [ I have a local friend that is a ScreenPlay dealer ;) ] . We have a few people in our local area HT group that either work for Infocus or sell the products so we have good solid information on the line here in my area [ only about 30 mins. from Infocus HQ ] .

---- Question is will it be a fair comparison if we use DVI on the 4805 and VGA(rgb) on the H30 ... hmmmmm

----------- Jason

Thanks, Steve. I won't post again - I can only assume either nobody has any advice, or with a post count of only 4, I'm not worthy of a reply yet :)

In any case, I won't keep beating the issue...

...Charlie

Originally posted by DaGamePimp
cgrey ,
-- Well my screen experience is very limited when it comes to Digital Projection so I will let Tom or Mike have at it ;) . I do think your plan sounds very good for a portable system however [ sounds as if you have thought it out and made your plan :) ] .

--------- Jason

Thanks for replying, Jason. No, I haven't really made any plan just yet - I am leaning towards the glass bead screen, but don't want to pull the trigger on it, in case it is not right for my setup. The last thing I want is to have the wrong screen ruin what will otherwise be a great experience.

I guess I may have to be the guinea pig on it, though. It seems, like you, that there may not be anyone else that has experience with this screen or setup, so if I don't get any sort of advice, I'll just go ahead with it and hope for the best.

...Charlie

Jason, I look forward to your shoot-out. Once the 4805 is out, I will buy the 4805 or the H30. I cannot find an Optoma dealer near me so your shoot-out will be extremely helpful, especially comparing the dvi vs. the rgb.

Yesterday evening I put some black tape over the lens (well not really on the lens itself of course) to get rid of the ligth spill (because of the 16:9 use). This helped more then I would had expected. It is a major improvement in contrast and viewing pleasure :)

Ok eventually the tape will be replaced by the 16:9 lens mask when it is available of course :P

Best regards,

Ronald

Originally posted by cgrey
Thanks, Steve. I won't post again - I can only assume either nobody has any advice, or with a post count of only 4, I'm not worthy of a reply yet :)

In any case, I won't keep beating the issue...

...Charlie

Charlie- I have never gotten the impression that the experts and other good folk here care about how many posts someone has. Heck! they even let me talk and I don't own a projector yet :) (soon to change that)

I have not seen anyone here talk about using a screen with that much gain with a projector as bright and vivid as the H30. Perhaps you may have some trouble with hotspotting or really small viewing cone, I really don't know and I wonder if no one else does which is why they have not answered. I would encourage you to talk with DaLite directly. I used their chat function one day on their website when I thought a DaLite manual model B was the screen for me. They actually talked me out of it because he indicated that video needs a tensioned screen and the waves would bother me. Huh! now theres honesty :) That is when I decided I will build a BO cloth DIY screen and hang it where the model B would have been. Sorry DaLite but thanks very much for the honesty. I believe that Tom/Guitar Man has indicated he has a hanging screen with some waves in it and it doesn't bother him. And he has forgotten more about FP than I will ever know :)

Anyway- I would suggest contacting screen companies for samples you could "pin up" temporarily or just explain your situation to them. You appear to have made a good choice on the projector- now go get that screen!

Cheers!

Sorry Charlie. I wasn't ignoring your post, but I don't have any experience with that setup either. I would say to stay away from a glass bead screen. A matte white would be best. I would go with gottahavapj's suggestion and obtain some samples from screen companies. DaLite and Carada would be glad to send you some.

Regarding the 4805, I've been promised one for review when its released, so between Jason and I we should have some good comparisons available. The slight increase in 16:9 resolution (854 X480 vs. 800 X 450) of the 4805 shouldn't make much of a noticeable difference and, as Tom mentioned, who knows whether it will have the same pop in the PQ and color saturation. A friend of mine just had the 5700 in for review and mentioned the particulaly bright, colorful picture (and he has an HT1000), so who knows. I do like having the DVI input for providing a direct digital path, but I look at the H30 as an interim projector until someday when Optoma comes out with a sub-$2000 native 720p projector. :D

I am using flat white ceiling paint on a wall and almost can't see having to buy a screen. Together with mount (homemade) and the leftover ceiling paint on the wall so far cost zero hehe.
Nobody has commented on the fact I have no screen, I think they think it's supposed to work this way lol. . I will take some shots when my bud brings his 5 megapixel camera over.
Really good stop gap measure.....
I would love to see the diy superplex or screen goo now....
Charlie this might be a good way to go for you.

Thanks guys - I was afraid I might make a mistake if I went forward without advice :)

Mike, do you think the matte white would have any problem with some ambient light (curtains will only eliminate so mich)? We won't be viewing in daylight too often, but on occasion, it's possible.

Rocker, in our setup, I really won't be able to project on to a wall. The room only has three walls (the living room sort of 'flows' in to the dining area. One is the window wall (where our seating will be), and the other two will be for normal tv viewing - entertainement center on one, couch on the other. My wife won't go with the idea that we'd have no 'regular TV' and use the PJ exclusively - and given our daylight situation, she's probably right.

Thank you both again - and to anyone else, I was joking about being 'ignored' because I'm new - I know this thread has gotten to be a 4-day project to get through, it's easy to get lost in the shuffle.. :)

...Charlie

Originally posted by gottahavapj
Charlie- I have never gotten the impression that the experts and other good folk here care about how many posts someone has. Heck! they even let me talk and I don't own a projector yet :) (soon to change that)

I have not seen anyone here talk about using a screen with that much gain with a projector as bright and vivid as the H30. Perhaps you may have some trouble with hotspotting or really small viewing cone, I really don't know and I wonder if no one else does which is why they have not answered. I would encourage you to talk with DaLite directly. I used their chat function one day on their website when I thought a DaLite manual model B was the screen for me. They actually talked me out of it because he indicated that video needs a tensioned screen and the waves would bother me. Huh! now theres honesty :) That is when I decided I will build a BO cloth DIY screen and hang it where the model B would have been. Sorry DaLite but thanks very much for the honesty. I believe that Tom/Guitar Man has indicated he has a hanging screen with some waves in it and it doesn't bother him. And he has forgotten more about FP than I will ever know :)

Anyway- I would suggest contacting screen companies for samples you could "pin up" temporarily or just explain your situation to them. You appear to have made a good choice on the projector- now go get that screen!

Cheers!

Thanks for the excellent tip about DaLite, Steve. I don't know that I've noticed that 'chat' function, and have been on their site a few times.

...Charlie

Charlie, I remember a ways back about using a tripod screen, guess I got called away to sell cigars that day. :)

http://www.da-lite.com/products/index.php?cID=19

The tripod type costs about $100

The Insta Theater is about $375

Both have limited screen materials but should be fine. I like the look of the Insta Theater type, sorta looks like a RPTV. My main worry about both these type is gravity. You have to prop them up in the center of the upper rod. I would think with time gravity may cause even more waves. At least with the mat white on the Tripod type when there's video the waves won't be too noticeable. What do you think?

Hey about the Infocus and the Optoma's way of doing things. I do remember a user picking the HT1000 over the IF5700 because colors and blacks were stronger. Now I know for a fact that the colors are stronger on the H30 over the HT1000. I've also heard from the tech people and a user that's had both the H56 and H30 that the colors once again are more intense on the H30 vs their own H56. Food for thought.

Stronger colors equals less washed out. :)

I've been questioned in the other forum about what do I mean by the H30 has stronger colors. Here's what I mean lol,

The H30 has a rainbow of colors/facial hues going on with each different actors skin tones. You'll have to see it to understand. Like they're running an add for a Ben Affleck/Liv Tyler movie on TV now. Liv justs looks gorgeous on the H30, there's all these great natural color tones to that beautiful face of hers. Other H30 owners know what I mean. I haven't seen skin tones done better that this.

If you haven't already purchased the H30 or its shipping is delayed (most likely), I would recommend waiting for Mike and Pimp to do their comparisons. You never can go wrong by waiting, as long as you don't get stuck waiting forever :)

I however have decided not to take my own advice and am going with the H30. I like the 4:3 screen and 800x600 PC display. Plus the 84" screen just fits in my room better than a 16:9 92", which I would have to get for the 4805.

This thread has been going for 3 solid months and no one has reported a dead pixel or really had any problems with their PJ other than Mike's bulb issue. To get the same security with the 4805 I'd have to wait another 3 months and I want a PJ now. I wonder if the 4805 has a 2 year 0 dead pixel policy like the H30? That is another thing to consider.

As Tom pointed out there are many facets to image quality and the 4805 would truely be amazing if it beats out the H30 on all fronts. (Which isn't impossible, but is unlikely) There will always be some compromise with whatever purchase you make. I think having a DVI will be much more important when you are dealing with 720P or 1080P images, but we are talking about 480P here. There is only so much that can be done with this resolution, it has its own built in limitations. I think the benefit of having a digital input for 480P will be slight if anything. That is probably the reason the fine people at Optoma decided to not include a DVI port on their projector. Anyhow, I know I will one day update all my equipment when HD-DVDs are $10 each and HDTV is sent at 1080P, or whatever the standards end up at in the future, but for now I don't think anyone can go wrong with the H30 if they are looking to watch DVD. Just remember, my opinion isn't important, listen to Tom, Mike, and Pimp, those guys know what they are talking about! At least that is what I did :)

Originally posted by DaGamePimp

---- Question is will it be a fair comparison if we use DVI on the 4805 and VGA(rgb) on the H30 ... hmmmmm

----------- Jason

I think that is the only way to be fair. Need to compare both projectors at their best.

I agree with Hikarate's assessment,. The 4805 with the longer throw has put it out of the ball park for my situation. I don't believe that it will best the H30 in all departments (I could be wrong)and it being marketed under the SP badge it will probably be priced at at higher price point. Just add the Home Theater moniker to a product and it seems to raise the price by a few hundred bucks!
My question is now that I decided on the H30 when should I order to assure that I will receive one with the new firmware?
Does anyone know how to tell that the new firmware has been added?
Tom or Mike?

Thanks,
Steve

Well, if you have an H30, you can tell by connecting a 4:3 source through the component-to-VGA adapter and see if the full chip's being used (ie: no light spill around the image).

For anyone who's used the service menu: Does the firmware version show up anywhere?

BTW, it looks like the firmware update's ready to go. They're currently waiting for the final okay from Taiwan.

Mike ,
--- There is a short series of numbers at the top of the service menu .
--- I will check it and see what mine says ...
------- Jason

*************** mine says " c04 Jan 14 2004 " **************

---- So maybe the c04 means something related to the firmware but then again it could just be a production code .

Originally posted by labman

My question is now that I decided on the H30 when should I order to assure that I will receive one with the new firmware?
Does anyone know how to tell that the new firmware has been added?
Tom or Mike?

Thanks,
Steve

Well a few of us ordered from Dell last week. They had 10% off, $25 coupon, and one guy even got an extra $50 off this price with another coupon. Anyhow they are on backorder which is a good sign.

If someone has them in stock and is going to send them to you today then most likely it will not have the firmware as we haven't had any news that it was released yet. I'm not 100% sure that the one I will get from Dell will have the firmware, but it just makes the most sense that it will. It is doubtful that they store these projectors but rather order them direct from the manufacturer. So its likley that whatever I get will be from Optoma and it is in their best interest to send the PJ out with the firmware, less hassle in the future. Anyhow, I think you are safe to buy from anyone who has it listed as backordered, just beware anyone that has it in stock. Doesn't really matter to me either way though since I will be using S-video and VGA, not messing with the component adapter.

Hi there everyone I've been lurking on this thread for a couple of days now and it's been one intense and interesting read! I was pretty skeptical about getting a front projector a few days ago, but after seeing the screen shots I'm amazed by the quality. Guitarman and Pimp have really been the most convincing for me, actually everyone's good word and opinion s have really helped. I am going to be purchasing a demo model H30 in about the next week and hook it up to an HTPC, which is something I was completely against a week ago, but now see the true value of it. Now I just have a few quick questions.

---What resolution and refresh rate does this projector like to be run at? I'm sorry if I missed it in another section of this thread, but I didn't really pay close attention to the HTPC details until later one when I was convinced that it was the way to go.

---Do I need to run PowerStrip with my HTPC? Or does it just accept 800x600 at xxHz with no other special configuration?

---Should I run DScaler through a S-Video connection on my HTPC for my DirecTV Tivo feed? It's pretty grainy quality on my 27" HDTV so I can only assume it will get worse if blown up to 70". If I use DScaler is a Pinnacle PCTV card good enough to run it with or should I go for another card with better picture quality?

---Can I use a VGA manual switch box without having to worry about signal degradation? I'll be running cables approx. 20 feet. Or do I need a switch box with some sort of amplifier?

---Is there any horizontal keystone corrections with this monitor as I might have to mount it slightly off-center?

---If I mount the projector right side up does that mean that it has to sit very low to the ground... like actually on the ground? Or is it possible to put it on a shelf above my head and have it project straight across?

Thank you so much for all you time that has gone into this thread, and thanks in advance for answering my questions.

Originally posted by MikeSRC
BTW, it looks like the firmware update's ready to go. They're currently waiting for the final okay from Taiwan.

:D :D :D

The Firmware on mine is

H30
c03 Dec 16 2003

Lamp Hours 487 and never a dead pixel :)

Logo Theme-Scene

Thanks Tom and Jason.

When I get mine back (maybe by Friday - fingers crossed), I'll check that out. Apparently, they've been using mine for checking the firmware (which I told them they could if necessary), so it's just waiting for the thumbs up. Anybody know what time it is in Taiwan? :D

well i just recieved my vu tec screen samples and the funny thing is the silver star sample was a small screen with borders and i also got the samples of the brite white
pearl bright 3.1


well the silver star is very interesting on my set up it is not as bright as the high power but it is more uniform as for color and the blacks are black and the lite sceens stay uniform also
:confused: the samples i got from vutec are bigger samples and if you want a screen with a higher veiwer angle the silver star is very interesting


ps man they gave me a minny screen that was interesting but it is effective though .

pearl bite - this is also very nice if you want something in be tween the gray and the white this screen material may be what you are looking for .

still have bigger high power samples coming today or tomorrow and i will nail down what different screen types work well with the h30 .

man all these ups guys and fed ex and postal guys coming in and out of my place , people might think i work for some important organization or something

quick update the material used for a silver star is( Silverstar is a multilayerd laminated on foam board) okay that explains the minny screen

OK, guys. I briefly saw my first front-projected DVD today. It was in the demo room of a custom-HT shop. Ceiling-mounted Sharp DT-200, 80"-wide matte-white screen, Pearl Harbor via Denon DVD player in 480i mode. Decent but not perfect light control, probably comparable to my own home theater.

So how might an H30 compare to a DT-200. Both are 800x600 DLP chips with RGBRGB color wheels, right? I've been considering an H30 on a somewhat smaller screen as a way to move to front projection from our 36" direct-view setup. Another alternative is a higher-resolution LCD in the Z2/AE500 range.

I was simultaneously quite impressed by the scale of the image and a little disappointed by its quality. Standing at just over 1.5 screen widths there was obvious screen door. Colors were very realistic looking but the image just wasn't very bright or "punchy". I'd say blacks and grays were definitely blocked up, no shadow detail at all. Allegedly, this was a well calibrated projector but I'm not so sure.

The good news was that even moving closer to the screen, looking at dark edges and scanning my eyes around I never saw anything remotely like a dreaded "rainbow". I also must admit that it felt like being in a movie theater even from farther back where the image smoothed out. It just needed either a perfectly dark room or more light coming off the screen.

The Sharp DT-200 is a Frys special here on the west coast. From my memory it has low lumens 600 and 1600:1 contrast. Not enough punch compared to the H30 in my opinion.

I have been reading a bit about keystone. Is this a necessary evil of ceiling mouting this projector?
Is the ideal scenario (As far as image goes) to have your projector behind your head and your screen directly in front of you with your eyes 1/3 up the screen?
The further away you get from this configuration the more keystone is required?

Is this correct or am I missing something? Concerning the Panavise mounts, if they work, would getting the 9" instead of the 6" limit the amount of keystoning required because the projector is sitting lower from the ceiling? Or would this difference not even be worth considering? Thanks.

Originally posted by cgrey
Thanks, Steve. I won't post again - I can only assume either nobody has any advice, or with a post count of only 4, I'm not worthy of a reply yet :)

In any case, I won't keep beating the issue...

...Charlie

Is my name being mis-used for evil purposes????

I do not recall ever suggesting anyone not post.................

Don't feel like you do not know enough to post... there are a few "experts" here, but many/most of us are just enthusiasts.

I do not have a projector either.. I spent three days at CES reviewing everything I could and I still don't know enough to be dangerous.

One theme that I have seen over and over on the various projector forums here though is the advice to get the projector FIRST. Then you can set up a temporary screen with Black Out cloth from Joann's fabric's .... contact as many screen manufacturers as you can and have them send samples...

New Teq Joe has been doing that... he posts here on this thread. From his postings I get the feeling that they send you small screen samples for free and if you need larger pieces there is a charge for those.

Well there you have it....... most everything I know about screen's other than I am told by knowledgeable folks that there is a VERY symbiotic relationship between the screen and the projector... in that a screen can be great for one projector, but not for another... you will need to find what works best with your projector and environment. I think that is why the experts advise getting the projector first before you start your screen adventure.

Steve

(not to be confused with some other Steve)

New Teq Joe has been doing that... he posts here on this thread.
From his postings I get the feeling that they send you small screen samples for free and if you need larger pieces there is a charge for those.



steve i have 12" by 12" samples (2 of each ) and yes pick a screen that suits your setup and needs and steve keep plugging away and i am sure you will have everything the way you want it cheers .joe


oh steve (no extra charge for the bigger samples the companys are great that way )

my choices so far are the
high power
carada brilliant white
for my set up

I think that Charlie had me confused with you Steve. I believe he was responding to one of my comments. My name is not Steve- I be Bruce...

Cheers!

Originally posted by MikeSRC
Anybody know what time it is in Taiwan? :D [/B]

If anyone is looking for a tool for this I do a ton of international work in my job. I use the World Clock at www.timeanddate.com The meeting planner and the fixed time calculator are vital tools for me. Just in case anyone cares :)

Cheers!
Bruce

Originally posted by new teq joe



oh steve (no extra charge for the bigger samples the companys are great that way )

my choices so far are the
high power
carada brilliant white
for my set up

Great to hear the larger samples are free... that is really nice of them.

So Joe, your first choice is the Da-Lite High Power and your second choice is the Carada Brilliant White?

Did you get a sample of the Da-Lite High Contrast Cinemavision?

If so, it obviously did not fair quite as well..... very interesting!

Steve

Did you get a sample of the Da-Lite High Contrast Cinemavision?


steve i have the big samples of hccv and i also saw it as a full screen to ,to be honest i do like it ,but the wife does not like gray screens .but what i can tell you would be happy with this screen ;)



but the full size screen of the hccv i saw was with the home 10 lcd pj and the pic was quite nice not dark at all , but that was lcd , just picture the the h30 with it :) to be honest it is 3 on my list ;)

About the ceiling mounts, get the lowest type available so you use less keystoning. Guys with high ceilings have it easy here and probably won't need any keystone. The larger the screen the further you have to have the PJ back equals more keystone.

For me a just under 8' ceiling and a 92"wide screen has the PJ back 14' with number 8 keystone when using the scaled aspects, 5 on keystone when using the native aspects. So with the new firmware and the better usage of the native aspects you can get away with less keystoning.

Mike,
I'm putting a call in today with Wing to see what's up. Thanks for the heads up.

Well Joe,

If the wife doesn't like it.... you are better off not fighting city hall!

Thanks though for that honest evaluation...

I have not had a chance to do a screen review other than the Vutec SilverStar which is beautiful.... and has a beautiful price to match. As you mentioned the SilverStar is not really a screen per se, but rather about 7 layers of film mounted to a solid surface. Stunning is the word!

Steve

If the wife doesn't like it.... you are better off not fighting city hall!


:eek: :D no steve the wife is not that bad but they have to have there say because they will also be watching the big screen



did you read an earlier post of mine the silver sample was packaged and protected and it came as a miniature version of the big screen ,i thought that was pretty cool

silver star

mini me silver star : ya baby :D

Originally posted by guitarman
About the ceiling mounts, get the lowest type available so you use less keystoning. heads up.

Tom, when you say the lowest possible are you talking about the largest drop from the ceiling? Say mounting the projector a foot or so down... or by lowest are you saying as close to the ceiling as possible?

My ceiling is 9' high.... and with the extreme angle up that a table mount has, I thought I would have to have the projector hugging the ceiling to have the image projected at the proper place on the wall. This thinking seems to be backed up by all the mounted projectors I have seen that are tilting the projector lens up toward the ceiling to get the image at the right location on the wall.

Steve

Originally posted by guitarman
About the ceiling mounts, get the lowest type available so you use less keystoning. Guys with high ceilings have it easy here and probably won't need any keystone. The larger the screen the further you have to have the PJ back equals more keystone.

For me a just under 8' ceiling and a 92"wide screen has the PJ back 14' with number 8 keystone when using the scaled aspects, 5 on keystone when using the native aspects. So with the new firmware and the better usage of the native aspects you can get away with less keystoning.

Mike,
I'm putting a call in today with Wing to see what's up. Thanks for the heads up.

I'm sorry for being so thickheaded Tom, but still confused.
Higher ceilings better? getting the projector closer to the ceiling better than having it further away? I have 8' ceiling if I have a choice of 3" mount or 12" mount I should go with the 3" mount? That correct?
Thanks as always...

Mike, Tom: Does this version of the firmware come with the digital offset that someone(I think Tom) mentioned a while ago?

Yes get the flush mount for an 8' ceiling, 9'ceiling would have a little more leeway.

The ditigal shift will be down the road maybe 5 months away.

Originally posted by guitarman
About the ceiling mounts, get the lowest type available so you use less keystoning. Guys with high ceilings have it easy here and probably won't need any keystone. The larger the screen the further you have to have the PJ back equals more keystone.

For me a just under 8' ceiling and a 92"wide screen has the PJ back 14' with number 8 keystone when using the scaled aspects, 5 on keystone when using the native aspects. So with the new firmware and the better usage of the native aspects you can get away with less keystoning.

Mike,
I'm putting a call in today with Wing to see what's up. Thanks for the heads up.

You know any keystone correction is a really bad thing. Because you are wasting some of the resolution of your panel, and distorting the image. I would rather see a little keystoning on the screen than to adjust it with the onscreen menu.

Originally posted by gottahavapj
I think that Charlie had me confused with you Steve. I believe he was responding to one of my comments. My name is not Steve- I be Bruce...

Cheers!

AAAARGH! Yeah, I could have sworn I saw 'Steve' at the end of one of your posts. That's what a 95+ page thread will do to you.

Sorry Bruce (and Steve, and anyone else) - and thanks again for all the suggestions. Funny - Mike recommended against the glass-bead screen, and I took your advice and chatted with Da-Lite, and after telling them everything I mentioned here, they seem to think it is exactly the one I need.

So, now I'm more confused than I was when I started :)

Looks like samples may be the way to go ...

...Charlie

Originally posted by guitarman
Charlie, I remember a ways back about using a tripod screen, guess I got called away to sell cigars that day. :)

http://www.da-lite.com/products/index.php?cID=19

The tripod type costs about $100

The Insta Theater is about $375

Both have limited screen materials but should be fine. I like the look of the Insta Theater type, sorta looks like a RPTV. My main worry about both these type is gravity. You have to prop them up in the center of the upper rod. I would think with time gravity may cause even more waves. At least with the mat white on the Tripod type when there's video the waves won't be too noticeable. What do you think?



Thanks Tom - Yeah, I had read about the matte white being good in handling waves - and waves are definitely a concern with a tripod type of screen. I'm hoping to get 12-18 months out of this screen, after which, we'll be moving in to our house, where I'll have a permanent screen mounted in a dedicated HT room. Any idea about how long these tripod screens go before the waves start to develop?

I'm so on the fence now, about just hanging a retractable screen from the ceiling. Knowing we're not spending long at all in this situation, I really wanted to avoid doing anything permanent - but if I can expect less frustration in the long run, in just may be worth it.

...Charlie

If it's only temporary and you've got a place to hang it, a cheap, homemade screen using blackout cloth would be a good temporary solution (about $50-60). Check out the "Screens" forum for more info.

Otherwise, I'd get the projector first and some screen samples before deciding.

"You know any keystone correction is a really bad thing. Because you are wasting some of the resolution of your panel, and distorting the image. I would rather see a little keystoning on the screen than to adjust it with the on screen menu.'

Yes it's been said but most everybody with the HT1000 and the H30 can't see a difference when using 3D reform or keystone. My preference is not having the angle spill. I really can't see a problem.

Hey Mike,
Ok you're ready to go re the firmware, the full push for the firmware if anyone wants it s/b good to go sometime next week. Here at Optoma they're confident the firmware is set and just need to get paper work approval from home base.

The new firmware will be "c05", heard they also added in a better digital zoom for expanding 2.35 movies for those that don't like the bars. The new zoom feature will retain the higher vertical resolution (480). It will be interesting to see how all the new features work. Looks like Mike will have his back this week and I can get mine done early next week. About the shipping - Optoma will be covering the shipping price back to you.

"Any idea about how long these tripod screens go before the waves start to develop?

I'm so on the fence now, about just hanging a retractable screen from the ceiling. Knowing"

Great if you can just get the ok for a pull down screen and plan on a fixed once your house is set. Go cheap and get a dalite model B pulldown in mat white.

Thanks for the update Tom. I've got to take off here shortly, but I'll give them a call tomorrow morning. If I can get it Friday, I'll be able to fill you all in over the weekend.

OK for everybody thinking about a screen i finally have all the "big" samples in and i have been running it threw the paces and for a set up of a table or cabinet mount i would definitely go with a high power the pic just jumps off the screen ;)

the hccv is also very nice if you likes blacks ,but like i said the wife does not like the gray screen :)


hcmw was almost like the regular mat white but it was better for the black levels ;)


and if you want something a little brighter than neutral pic ,i would go with the carada brilliant white or the cinema vision ;)


well i am going to be getting my high power soon and will enjoy the heck out of it .

but remember get samples and ask for bigger ones so that you can get a good read on what works for you . cheers Joe

Joe,
I'm glad you quit on the Silver Star. It's a little tricky because it acts different with different projectors. I saw it with a Sharp Z10000 and could see shimmering effects in all the bright areas of video. Once you start to notice it you can't stop seeing it. High Power is the right choice. Let us know once it's set up.

Cgrey,

Again, this would be considered heresay in court, but...

It has been said that the glass beaded surface is not very robust (falling beads after some time) and that its very hard to clean. I swear I also remember something about a slight color shift...

High power has almost all of the gain, and none of the disadvantages of the glass bead. I have yet to hear about fall out on a HP screen.

FWIW, I saw screens with GOO digital, Goo crt, Greyhawk, Parkland, Blackout fabric, Firehawk, HCCV, Video spectra and High power.

My favorite was the High Power.

YMMV.

If you value bright colors and pop over true absolute blacks, you will love the HP.

Joe and Marco

Did you look at the High Power screen only with the projector "table mounted?"

of

did you see the High Power with the projector ceiling mounted also?

I may be going a little buggy.., but I seem to remember someone mentioning that High Power was set up for a specific bounce back angle that is set up for table mounted projectors and would not work properly with ceiling mounts?????

Steve

Ps. was that a Da-Lite High Power or someone else?

I'm glad you quit on the Silver Star. It's a little tricky because it acts different with different projectors. I saw it with a Sharp Z10000 and could see shimmering effects in all the bright areas of video. Once you start to notice it you can't stop seeing it. High Power is the right choice. Let us know once it's set up.


tom the silver star is a very nice screen but the high power had more pop for my set up and the blacks are not to bad either ;)


now should i get a perm wall or a model b delux for now tell my place is ready ?

Did you look at the High Power screen only with the projector "table mounted?"



steve no i had looked at wall mounted about 8ft high and the throw at that time was 10.6 ft or so and i did notice a gain drop at the bottom of the screen but maybe it was my eyes ,but tom had his ceiling mounted before and i think he had good results with ,steve if you are in the etobicoke area you are more then welcome to see the samples and judge for your self


but if any body is interested there was a vutec material that acted like the high power but minus the sheen and the blacks where very good and color was excellent ,it was the vutec pearl bright 3.1 gain .

oh steve it is a da lite high power

Thanks Joe....

Not exactly sure where "etobicoke" is..., but I am planning on coming to the Canuck Shootout #2.

Depending on availability should either arrive on Friday or Saturday morning.

Tom - were you the one that talked about the High Power dropping some of it's gain with a "ceiling mount?"

If so, what type of gain do you wind up with.

Steve

Not exactly sure where "etobicoke" is..., but I am planning on coming to the Canuck Shootout #2.


well it is toronto between Mississauga and toronto



oh thats right you are going to the canuck shoot out :) cool

Tom --

Call your buddy "Wing" and see if he can "Wangle" (pun intended) Optoma into providing Rob with an H30 with the updated firmware for the Canuck Shootout on April 17th.

Steve

what is the Canuck Shootout?

Originally posted by torontomapleleaf
what is the Canuck Shootout?

A projector shootout held about 45 minutes west of Toronto on April 17th.

If you would like to attend you can contact Rob in the "above" $3500 forum where he has a thread running on the Canuck Shootout #2.

Steve

Somebody has to take an H30 to this thing so the $2K to $3K crowd can shed a few tears :) [ j/k ;) ] .

--- Oh and my experience with a Glass-Beaded screen was HORRIBLE , the way the reflections came off that thing I felt like the image was being projected onto a giant fish [ you know how the fish scales glimmer in sunlight ;) ] .

---- Jason

Originally posted by DaGamePimp
Somebody has to take an H30 to this thing so the $2K to $3K crowd can shed a few tears :) [ j/k ;) ] .

---- Jason

Exactly why I am trying to enlist Tom's effort to bring his big guns at Optoma "online."

Steve

Steve,

Odds are you will still have a gain higher than 1.0, even with a ceiling mount. (vs a gain of 2.5 with table mount IIRC). Unless your ceiling is very high. After some crying over the small viewing cone of the HP, some people did a gain test with variable viewing angles. Resulsts : YES, the drop-off in gain is pretty quick, but it takes a while to drop below 1.0.

Actually, this might be best with the H30, since it seems to be pretty bright. I think the High power best attribute is its ability to hide the waves, making it the perfect pull down material. If you do not need a pull-down, there might be some materials/DIY to look into. But for me, HP is the only viable option in pull-down, especially if you are going to leave it rolled up most of the time.

I was looking at Da-Lite's model "B" as it seems to be the only one in the size I wanted...

After reading on their web site I would have picked the High Contrast Matte White with a 45 degree viewing angle and a gain of 1.1.

Not familliar with "waves" unless you are talking about the screen in motion...

Are you saying that the HCMW would be subject to more of this "wave" effect than the HP?

Steve

Once I finally "pounce" on a projector I think I will just staple up a piece of Black Out cloth at 96 x 72 (or 96 x 54 depending on projector) and order up a bunch of samples....

Can I use some double sided tape (one that won't leave residue) to tape the samples unto the BOC for comparison purposes?

Steve

"Tom - were you the one that talked about the High Power dropping some of it's gain with a "ceiling mount?"

You end up with about half the brightness. The HCMW shows big time waves with or without video, stay away.

You got one main choice for non tensioned "High Power"

You can live with Mat White, it will show waves without video but they fade with video. You can see a wavy anomaly with panning scenes with mat white. Again the High Power is so thick that it hangs mostly flat anyway.

Tom,

Any idea why Da-Lite does not offer the High Contrast Cinemavision on the Model B?

Steve

Hi guys, I'm new here. I've been reading for about a week to catch up on the 96 pages, whew... Anyway, I've been on a quest to buy an affordable FP cuz my Mits RP TV broke 3 weeks ago. They are still fixing it.

I went to a local store and bought a Screen Play 4800 (X1) and have been testing it for a week now (7 more days left). I like it a lot, like the large 4:3. Color looks good, Directv via svideo looks good. I have it mounted 12' from my wall, 8.5' high. But, I do see rainbows, not a lot, but I do see them. I have a H30 on (back)order, so while I'm waiting. How does it look projecting a Directv signal via svideo. If I like the way the SP4800 looks, will I like the way this looks? I saw another post a few pages back claiming that it didn't look good, but that is relative. It's not going to look as good as a DVD.

Thanks for all the great information, hopefully I'll be another happy H30 user.

Don

I went to a local store and bought a Screen Play 4800 (X1) and have been testing it for a week now (7 more days left). I like it a lot, like the large 4:3. Color looks good, Directv via svideo looks good. I have it mounted 12' from my wall, 8.5' high. But, I do see rainbows, not a lot, but I do see them. I have a H30 on (back)order, so while I'm waiting. How does it look projecting a Directv signal via svideo. If I like the way the SP4800 looks, will I like the way this looks? I saw another post a few pages back claiming that it didn't look good, but that is relative. It's not going to look as good as a DVD.


don i run my express vu satellite threw the h30 and use the user setting to tweak the pick to my liking and it is not as bad as you think ;) ,but when you get hdtv then you will see the pic jump out, tom has some pics on here of either sd or hdtv .

Just wanted to comment on screens. I have a HCCV on a DIY frame. At first I was a bit disappointed at the drop off in brightness. Of course this is after recalibrating the projector but only with the THX setup. After a few days I started adjusting the White Peaking. That made a huge difference. The picture is quit a bit brighter and the blacks are still very black. I think I have the White Peaking set to 8 now. Looks great. Just wanted to add this for anyone evaluating screens that I found this made the HCCV screen look very good to me.

Max

Originally posted by Dillinger
I went to a local store and bought a Screen Play 4800 (X1) and have been testing it for a week now (7 more days left). I like it a lot, like the large 4:3. Color looks good, Directv via svideo looks good.
Don

Consider the H30 and Infocus 4805. The 4805 should be out in a month or 2. If you can wait you might want to decide between those 2, that is what most people seem to be doing. I went with the H30. Just make sure you return that X1.

Based on this thread, I purchased the H30. It's a great projector for the money.

I have one small problem with it. I play DVD's from my HTPC. The projector is connected to the VGA port on the ATI 9600. Every time I boot the HTPC, the projector turns on. I do not want the projector to turn on automatically. Is there a way to disable the auto power up feature. I have been all through the setup menus and have found no way to do this.

Concerning the post about dtv I made the earlier post about the lousy picture quality.
It seems to me it has mostly to do with text. I don't seem to be able to get text clear as could be, even on htpc {windows dvi-vga} and some faces are a TINY bit blurry {dtv s-video}.
This dosn't seem to happen with dvd htpc it seems way clearer, maybe sometimes during credits only.
Only I seem to notice it much but I was a video editor so I see everything, it's a curse!
This is my first projector and I am sure I am missing something. I run native 4:3 for htpc nvidia fx5600 800X600 {yes it fills whole 800x600!} and wonder if its my high keystone maybe? it's 14.{duct in way} I've tried lot's of tweaking and smoothing the picture with cinema mode helps..
I want to a try better dtv receiver but not sure how to make htpc look clearer except lower keystone maybe. Signal quality seems very important here. I find what looks ok on a small tv, shows every imperfection when it's big.

I am guessing that to get the firmware version number I have to enter the "service menu". What is the sequence to enter the "service menu"?

Thanks,

Frank

Tom posted the instructions earlier in this thread here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3538512#post3538512).

Mike,

Thanks, unfortunatly, these directions do not work for the H76. I wonder who I would have to contact to get the information.

Frank

Originally posted by rocker999
Concerning the post about dtv I made the earlier post about the lousy picture quality.
It seems to me it has mostly to do with text. I don't seem to be able to get text clear as could be, even on htpc {windows dvi-vga} and some faces are a TINY bit blurry {dtv s-video}.
This dosn't seem to happen with dvd htpc it seems way clearer, maybe sometimes during credits only.
Only I seem to notice it much but I was a video editor so I see everything, it's a curse!
This is my first projector and I am sure I am missing something. I run native 4:3 for htpc nvidia fx5600 800X600 {yes it fills whole 800x600!} and wonder if its my high keystone maybe? it's 14.{duct in way} I've tried lot's of tweaking and smoothing the picture with cinema mode helps..
I want to a try better dtv receiver but not sure how to make htpc look clearer except lower keystone maybe. Signal quality seems very important here. I find what looks ok on a small tv, shows every imperfection when it's big.

The projector is interpolating images up to 800X600. This interpolation could be causing the blurriness that you are reporting. Could be more apparent depending on the source material. I don't know about the keystone, I hope that isn't the cause of this.

HI,

I have a Panasonic AE100 right now with a Stewart Firehawk 118"diagonal 16x9 screen and would like to upgrade. Would this pj fill the whole screen? And how much should the picture improve?

Thanks,
Neo

"- Out the Token Ring, through the router,
down the fiber, off another router, down the T1,
past the firewall...nothing but Net"
Huh??? To funny.. I wonder how many people on this forum have ever seen or for that matter even heard of a Token Ring adapter? I used to sell those blinding fast- 4Mbps network adapters for like $400 a piece back in the late 80's/ early 90's :) Certainly before the web as we know it now came into existence. Huh..

"I have a Panasonic AE100 right now with a Stewart Firehawk 118"diagonal 16x9 screen and would like to upgrade. Would this pj fill the whole screen? And how much should the picture improve?"

I had the AE100, how much improvement, try 500 times. Yes it will work with your screen and a screen like that deserves the H30. Let us know when you receive one. :)

OK,

Where can i buy the H30, i am highly interested.


Thanks,

Projectorpeople.com has decent prices on most things. That is where I bought my PB6200. This thread has over 1500 replies...the H30 better make it onto Projectorcentral.com's list of recommended systems LOL.

It's not available anywhere right now. Hopefully, Optoma will start shipping some to dealers in a week or two.

I might know a dealer that has 1 available , I will call and find out .


********* OK , dealer tells me they cannot keep them in stock , they said the last several had been taken from receiving before ever being put into regular inventory .
-- Must be the hot PJ right now ;) .
-- He suggested I toss mine up on ebay since they are so difficult to get - hehe .

----- Jason

Mike :

"It's not available anywhere right now. Hopefully, Optoma will start shipping some to dealers in a week or two."

Is this mean's bad news about the firmware ? No H30 for the weekend ?

Ariel

No, the firmware's fine. I just haven't been able to confirm that I'll be getting mine back before the weekend.

I wonder how many people on this forum have ever seen or for that matter even heard of a Token Ring adapter?

Those of us who work for IBM have. :)

In fact, my site just joined the 20th century(LOL!) and switched from Token Ring to Ethernet.

Gotta, did you sell any 8226 MAU's in your day?

Token-Ring was a very good technology at the time and I've still some customers who have it today :).
Doesn't compete with todays 1000/100 Eth but easily outperformed 10mbit ethernet networks.

Ahhhh.....Those were the days :)

Johnny Bax and simong-

Tooo funny... Yes Johnny I did sell my share of those. Even some of the dreaded Thomas Conrad TCNS 100Mbps hybrid TR stuff. But you don't wanna hear that as an IBM'er :)

That was some very stable stuff simong, you're right. I remember first reading about Ethernet and it's "best effort" delivery system when it first became popular and thought "that'll never catch on" hehehe..

But we digress... sorry!

Originally posted by Johnny Bax
Those of us who work for IBM have. :)

In fact, my site just joined the 20th century(LOL!) and switched from Token Ring to Ethernet.

Gotta, did you sell any 8226 MAU's in your day?

I miss the clicking sound when I established a connection... We used token ring here until about 1999... and now I'm way off topic.

I'm all set to take the firmware plunge Monday of next week. I'll let you know how it works out.

Hey maybe I can even beat Mike out. I ship on Monday they receive on Tuesday. My buddy says he'll hop right on it. Lets assume they ship back on Tuesday and I receive back on Wednesday.

My main interest is how everything scales up in the native 480p modes plus the letterbox support for my Star Wars LD's & ESPN-HD. Oh and ofcoure I hang up my 120" 4.3 screen and take a look at some Classic DVD's, House of Wax or Key Largo, Casablanca. Things s/b getting even better now.

Originally posted by guitarman
Hey maybe I can even beat Mike out. I ship on Monday they receive on Tuesday. My buddy says he'll hop right on it. Lets assume they ship back on Tuesday and I receive back on Wednesday.


LOL. You just might Tom. I spoke to Wing today and he's going to calibrate mine tomorrow, so they should be shipping it back by Monday, which means I'd get it Tuesday, but who knows. I'll just be happy to get it back next week. I'm beginning to forget what it looks like. :D

He did say he's getting a new prototype of the lens cap, so I think that's still a ways off from availability

Originally posted by guitarman
"Tom - were you the one that talked about the High Power dropping some of it's gain with a "ceiling mount?"

You end up with about half the brightness. The HCMW shows big time waves with or without video, stay away.

You got one main choice for non tensioned "High Power"

You can live with Mat White, it will show waves without video but they fade with video. You can see a wavy anomaly with panning scenes with mat white. Again the High Power is so thick that it hangs mostly flat anyway.

I used an NEC LT-150 for about 2 years with a Model B High Power. It hung flat for about 9 months. Then I began to see the waviness during pans that Tom describes. It drove me crazy. Despite the extra weight of the High Power material, the lack of tensioning on the pulldown eventually catches up with you. Has anyone out there built a fixed screen with the HP screen material?

I used an NEC LT-150 for about 2 years with a Model B High Power. It hung flat for about 9 months. Then I began to see the waviness during pans that Tom describes. It drove me crazy. Despite the extra weight of the High Power material, the lack of tensioning on the pull down eventually catches up with you. Has anyone out there built a fixed screen with the HP screen material?


jeff i don't know about building with a hgh power but i think the material should be easy though , i am getting a high power fixed frame and that should eliminate the problems >;)


oh tom i am going with 92x 52 screen or i will get 92x68 depending on the firmware .

I just noticed something, on the spec sheet for the H30 it says it comes with the ceiling mount kit, is this true? That would be nice.

Originally posted by guitarman
Thanks, heres a great update. I just got off the phone with the top tech at Optoma USA. He will have the update firmware when he gets back from Taiwan next month. For me I would hv to take the PJ over to Milpitas which is right near me and they would do the firmware for me. He said they have a certain cable connection that has to be used.

He also said that soon after the firmware is complete that future units would already have it installed.

One other thing the HTPC can open 800X600. He said when connecting straight with RGB/RGB the 800X600 is enabled. It just component to RGB that's not setup to work and will go into masked mode. Aren't there some DVD players with the VGA out? I think the Skyworth maybe.

Does anyone know if they could just supply us or let us purchase a cable to do the upgrades. I would be much happier with this PJ if I knew I could do firmware updates myself like the X1.

Just got my H30 yesterday. Firmware says Jan 14. No green push in progressive. No ceiling mount included. Sorry rsmith4321...

It does not come with it- they are an option. You can find considerably more reasonable (and still well designed) mounts than the $120 and up that distributors charge for that one also.....

Cheers!

Joe, 92"X52" would be great firmware or not firmware. That's the widescreen size I'm using and a 12 or 13' back I'm not bothered by SD.

Re a cable to do your own firmware. They reset the machines before applying the firmware so a re-calibration has to be done.

I did not like the H30 when i first saw it in a demo (see post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3348231#post3348231))

I just looked at it again in the store with my own DVDs, and now I finally saw what you guys have been talking about. It must not have been set right the first time. Very nice and filmlike, and those colors! I will be getting one. I just have to figure out the best way to get one over here from USA considering that it is about $1200 more here in Europe.

I have been waiting just to figure out a way to afford an XGA model, but now I dont see the reason why. This will do just fine (more than fine actually) for a few years until the 720p models start coming in at lower prices.

Hello i have been reading this thread and its very interesting. I was about buy my first projector, an epson TW10 (its the epson home 10 here? maybe) it would cost me 1049 euro. I got not much more money, but i am thinking of delaying my purchase and try to save money for an optoma, but 1700 is a lil much, maybe i could get a bargan somewhere and get it a lil cheaper but i will have to save up another 500 euro's.... (and i am a student, so i aint very rich :S )
Whats the overall price you americans pay for it? And whats in yer opinion a reasonable price for this machine...
Mostly its 1700 euro's here (netherlands)...

Greetz

PS I havent read all yet, i am on page 55, so i got still 50 pages to go, lol..

Joe, 92"X52" would be great firmware or not firmware. That's the wide screen size I'm using and a 12 or 13' back I'm not bothered by SD.


the funny thing is tom i do not see sd from 14 ft back at this size ;) and tom with the firm ware if i go with the 92 x 68 size it will fill the screen ?

and the only thing that is holding me back from this size (and it should not ) is when my home gets finished late this year is moving it to the new place :) but the screen is lite and i will cover it up and then just hang it again ;) ( i hope ) .

so like i said earlier it should be ok (won't it ):)

Joe if you use your projector for TV like me a Standard 4.3 size that I use is 92"X69". I must admit we use the projector to view American Idol and Survivor and any other good TV shows. So I'll give the 4.3 screen a try again, I just have to see how I like the fact that 16.9 material will still be down at the bottom of the screen.

If that really bothers me I may have to live with the little bitty window boxed 4.3. Which I'll tell you obviously I don't like because whenever I think of watching any of my 4.3 DVD collection I just pass, figuring I'll wait for the firmware.

Small Problem
Based on this thread, I purchased the H30. It's a great projector for the money.

I have one small problem with it. I play DVD's from my HTPC. The projector is connected to the VGA port on the ATI 9600. Every time I boot the HTPC, the projector turns on. I do not want the projector to turn on automatically. Is there a way to disable the auto power up feature. I have been all through the setup menus and have found no way to do this.

Update - I have gone through the factory setup menus and cannot find a way to disable the auto power up feature. Is this a feature that cannot be disabled?

So Tom,

On my 4:3 screen if i have the PJ ceiling mounted I will always have to pull the screen down to the bottom? Won't be able to just pull it down part way? I thought because the PJ was flipped over it would shoot to the top?
Guess not... Thanks for the info.

If that really bothers me I may have to live with the little bitty window boxed 4.3. Which I'll tell you obviously I don't like because whenever I think of watching any of my 4.3 DVD collection I just pass, figuring I'll wait for the firmware.


that is exactly what i am thinking because the wife picked up under world (4:3) and now i just set it to 16:9 native and pick looks good , and it does seem to be good and now when i watch sat on the h30 i always leave the pic set to 16:9 native and the pic looks good to :)


but with the firm ware 2:35 aspect will be higher in hight and not look so small ,


so what i am thinking of doing is get the firm ware and then get the lense 16:9 cap and then i will be set i think ,but like you the pic being on the bottom will bother me a little , so am with you with this issue :)

Originally posted by guitarman
So I'll give the 4.3 screen a try again, I just have to see how I like the fact that 16.9 material will still be down at the bottom of the screen.

But to be sure I understood correctly- the 16:9 image is now at the bottom of a 4:3 screen when the H30 is ceiling mounted and using a DVD player for the input. But with the new firmware- it will be at the top, correct?

Cheers!

No, it will still be at the bottom and the size of the image won't change. The only size that will change is a 1080i feed, they're making it to match up with the now size of the native 480p resolutions.

The HTPC auto on problem maybe the gamepimp :) can help you. There may be an feature in the Systems menu.

Man Tom- I'm confused... I'll have to go back 20 pages or so and find that post from Wing. I thought for sure the new firmware was now going to push the 16:9 image up the 4:3 screen to perhaps even the upper half which then would not work for me. Maybe I dreamt it... I'll check back. Thanks!

stant843 ,
--- I do not have that issue at all , I boot my HTPC with the H30 connected all the time and it never auto powers up [ as a matter of fact I just tried it ] . I have the Auto Power Off feature set to the 'ON' selection [ but I am not certain if that has anything to do with it - I wouldn't think so anyway ] . I know the signal [DPMS] to turn on a display is sent over the H & V sync lines so maybe it is related to the cable somehow [ probably not ;) ] . Might have to call Optoma tech support on that one - sorry I don't have an answer for you :( .
___________________

-- YEAH !!! , while I was typing this reply my Panavise mount showed up :) . The mount is very sturdy for such a small device and will have no trouble holding the 4.5 lb. H30 ;) .
-- It does not come with any type of mounting bolts so a trip to HomeDepot is in order . It does come with an allen key for the type that I ordered [ for adjustment ] .
-- This thing can be twisted and put into almost any position [ very cool design ] . The way this thing can be adjusted you could literally have your PJ a couple inches from the ceiling [ for those that might need it hugging the ceiling - low ceilings ] .
-- The 1/4-20 mounting bolt threaded right into the H30 with no problem at all [ smooth as silk ;) ] . It uses a counter tightening nut to keep it secure once threaded into the 1/4-20 hole .
-- Come to think of it this could also be used if you wanted to mount the H30 upright inside a coffee table or custom floor type enclosure .
--- I will post some pics of it later today on my website .
___________________
-------- Jason

Are there mounts that will allow me to have the projector right side up on the ceiling? Like a carriage or something?
Would doing this allow me to have the 16:9 image at the top of the screen?
I have the black casing and was planning to use that as masking for the top of the screen when viewing 16:9 material, but if it shoots at the bottom then I am SOL.
Thanks.

hikarate ,
--- That would not work without tilting the PJ a huge amount and using huge amounts of keystone correction . Sitting level and right side up at the ceiling would have your image on the ceiling .
-------- Jason

Oh well, I'll just have to live with no border at the top of 16:9 images I guess. Any chance of this type of issue being addressed in the future or is this pretty much something that is by design and can't be modified. Seems like it would make since to allow the image to be displayed on the bottom or the top of the chip. I remember reading that either was viewed as the "sweet spot" based on how the lense is designed. Would be perfect if I could just pull my screen far enough down to watch 16:9 movies and use the case as the top black border.
Thanks for the info guys!

But this is what I struggle with. I thought the new firmware was going to push the 16:9 image to (or at least toward) the top of the screen which will not work for me. I will have a 78" diagonal 4:3 screen mounted rather high by necessity- the top only ~9" from the ceiling. If my calculations are correct on a 62" wide screen a 2.35 image would be ~27" tall and if this was a narrow strip way up by the ceiling- I think it would look REALLY dumb.. I gotta go back to Wing's post and get this straight unless one of you could possibly get it through my thick head :)

Thats funny, we have the same # of posts and want the opposite functionality. I am pretty sure it is going to work the way that you hope it will. I remember many threads back they thought it would allow you to flip it to use the top or bottom of the chip which is what would make us both happy, but I think Wing or someone said no to that. I hope to mount my screen 16" down so showing at the top shouldn't be too much of a strain and then I would have correct masking for 16:9 and 4:3 movies by just pulling the screen down enough to watch 16:9. That would just be perfect. As is, the 16:9 will shoot at the bottom of the screen so I pull the screen all the way out to view 16:9 movies and will have no border at the top of the image, just the rest of the 4:3 screen I had to pull down. I am a total newb so don't know how much of a difference this will make, but I am sure having a black border around the whole image helps the contrast quite a bit. Sounds like people should go with a 16:9 screen for this PJ unless they are setting it up tabletop.
Is that correct guys or am I even more confused than I think I am? :)
Again, thanks for the replies and patience.

The new firmware is not supposed to change the placement of the 16:9 image at all [ from what has been stated ] . The idea of moving the image to either the top or bottom of the panel will not be in the new firmware [ this is something that will come later ] .
----- Jason
_________

--- Time for the fun Ceiling mount install ;) ...

I high up 4.3 screen is ok. Just about 9" or less down from the ceiling is where my 120" 4.3 starts. My projector will stay in the same position and the screen will be filled for 4.3 material. I have confirmed with wing that 16.9 from your DVD player will still be displayed at the bottom of the 4.3 screen.

He also said the same would happen with HTPC. Maybe Gamepimp can confirm. Wing said with HTPC 4.3 would be open to 800X600 but when you send a 16.9 DVD signal the view would still be at the bottom of the 4.3 screen.

I was hoping a component to VGA transcoder would open the 4.3 chip and allow a centered 16.9 view from my DVD player. Wings says no, the image would still go to the bottom of the chip and that the optics work better at that portion.

Tom ,
--- With an HTPC (RGB/vga) source the entire panel is open in 4:3 and you can shoot directly in the middle as long as you are in 4:3 mode on the H30 . Now if you switch to 16:9 or 16:9 Native then the image is at the bottom portion of the panel . I have tested this with a line doubler , Transcoder , game console , and obviously HTPC [ they all function in the same manner when the source is true RGB (vga) ] .
--------- Jason

Tom ,
-- I have a quick question for you ;) .
--- Am I correct in assuming that you mount using the Optical center lined up to the screen center [ the actual mount is shifted to one side and you do not line up the projector from the center of the projector itself ] .

-- That make sense ?

--- I am assuming there is no image shift within the H30 that would make the image project off-center from the lens by default .

-- This is my first Digital PJ so I just want to be sure my thinking is correct :) .

------------ Thanks ,
------------- Jason

Hmmm, makes me think with a transcoder and using the PJ in 4.3 you couldn't get the NA-squeeze. I think I remember you do have control for the squeeze with HTPC?

Correct , with HTPC you can have total aspect control [ even custom aspect control ] .
------- Jason
_____________
************* Tom , did you see my Question to you above ? *********

I guess most of you guys using HTPC aren't going to bother with the firmware. One of the things which is new with the firmware is a new digital zooming feature. From what I understand the zoom will be more subtle so you could zoom a 2.35 movie without allot of overscan.

Originally posted by guitarman
I have confirmed with wing that 16.9 from your DVD player will still be displayed at the bottom of the 4.3 screen.


Tom,

Just to confirm your statement above:
from a ceiling mount, the 16:9 image on a 4:3 screen is displayed at the bottom of the screen, so I have to fully pull the 4:3 screen out to view 16:9 material correct?

If tablemounted, then 16:9 material is displayed at the top of the 4:3 screen so you can just pull the screen out enough to view 16:9 materal, and do not have to fully pull the 4:3 screen down.

So this means gottahavapj is getting the H30 :)

The image is at the bottom of the screen either way - yes [ ceiling or table ] .
------ Jason

Hopefully these questions make sense.

I notice that most of you use a HTPC to send your signal to the H30.

I would perfer not to use a HTPC. I like the look of the Bravo D1 DVI enabled DVD Player. My question is does anyone know what kind of performance I would get if I used the DVI output of the Bravo D1 and used a DVI to VGA converter? Would this look better or worst the Progressive component to VGA? Also would this allow 4:3 without the firmware update?

Thanks!

I just made the leap into the world of FP :)
After weeks of Umm'ing and Ahh'ing I finally bit the bullet today and bought an Optoma H30 off Ebay !.

It's taken me weeks to convince my wife (A self confessed technofobe) that we "really" nneded too replace our 40" RPTV with something.
Well, I finally got the ok (If reluctantly) today to buy one - I still have the scars and bruises ;)

I bought if from someone in London for £1k - which isn't a bargain but is certainly cheaper than any web/retail outlet. The units is apparently brand new and still sealed in the box.

Next thing I need to do is sort out a screen (Prob a blackout until I have more funds) and a Dolby 5.1 system (Currently integrated into the TV) and finally sell my 40" Tosh (Will be buying a more compact unit for day viewing).

I'm really hoping that the unit is as good as I've read here - My wife isn't easily impressed :)

goillini ,
--- Actually most here do not use HTPC .
---- The Bravo with the DVI to VGA adapter should open up the entire 4:3 with the current c04 firmware [ and it should look wonderful ;) ] . Just do not expect the up-scaled dvd to look like it would on a native 720p/1080i display .
-------- Jason

simong ,
-- Congratulations , I wondered who bought that unit [ if it was a forum member ] .
-- Your wife is sure to be impressed with this unit , take it from somebody that has been using CRT projection for years ;) .
-------- Jason

finally put an order in with a deposit for my H30 !!!!!!!!!
man, this forum is great . who know what high priced pj could i have bought havent it not been for this forum. i tip my hat to all you enthusiasts and experts.
didnt wait for the firmware, figure i'll send it to nearby fremont for the upgrade.
will wait for the screen shootout altho a slight bias i have towards carada brilliant white. seems like some are impressed by it. love the price point.

question, please. is anybody bothered at all by the fan noiseof the H30? a friend of mine who works in the Hi end spectrum PJ crowd says these budget, data grade pjs have a tendency to have small bodies with noisy fans, that these are designed not for quietness but for presnetations for which nobody gives a hoot about fan noise when you are writing notes down, etc. look into the likes of the dwins and the runcos . still, i'll take the H30 for the price and the performance, which we all know , is why this thread keeps going and going.

thanks again to all posters.
jay
:D :D :D :D

Thanks Jason - She's really not a happy bunny at the moment (he he ) ;)
I have to break the screen and 5.1 requirements to her very gently........ followed by running away very quickly ;).

My main concern with FP has always been the ambient light conditions and how this would affect the image.
I was on training at a supplier on Tues this week and spent more time looking at their projector and screen than I did paying attention to the presentation (God I'm a sad git :)). They were using an LG XGA LCD (1000 lumens) in high ambiant light conditions with a matt white Da-Lite screen and it looked great. Having then checked the LG against the Optoma I realised (I hope) that the Optoma should be similar in brightness with probably better image quality - if a little lower resolution.

My decision was finalised this morning when I was in a meeting with a customer when I got a text from my wife giving the OK to buy - The customer had recently bought a DLP FP himself and was so excited that he convinced me that the deed needed to be done.

Expect to see me on the forums a lot more in future - probably asking daft newbie setup quesitons :)

Originally posted by goillini
Would this look better or worst the Progressive component to VGA? Also would this allow 4:3 without the firmware update?



Well, the component output of the Bravo is pretty bad, so I would expect the DVI-to-VGA conversion to look much better. It still won't be up to having a DVI digital connection.

Originally posted by C4Sip
question, please. is anybody bothered at all by the fan noiseof the H30? a friend of mine who works in the Hi end spectrum PJ crowd says these budget, data grade pjs have a tendency to have small bodies with noisy fans, that these are designed not for quietness but for presnetations for which nobody gives a hoot about fan noise when you are writing notes down, etc. look into the likes of the dwins and the runcos

The H30 is a home theater projector, not a presentation projector (although it could be used as one). That's why it doesn't have an RBGW wheel and inflated lumen output. In Eco mode, it's as quiet as most higher priced projectors.

Mike ,
--- Did you happen to notice my question above by chance ;) [ about the centering of the PJ for mounting ] . I guess Tom hit the road for a bit .
--- I am about to mount it and need to be sure my thinking is correct .
---- Thank You ,
------- Jason

Originally posted by simong
Expect to see me on the forums a lot more in future - probably asking daft newbie setup quesitons :)

Congratulations on your purchase Simong!
I believe you will find it hard to beat my ceiling carriage mount question I posted earlier today, but good luck.

Originally posted by hikarate
Congratulations on your purchase Simong!
I believe you will find it hard to beat my ceiling carriage mount question I posted earlier today, but good luck.

I have a talent for findng the obscure :D

Jason,

I never had a chance to mount mine (just used table top), but I don't believe there is a horizonal offset from the lens center, ie: center of lens should be opposite center of image.

Thanks Mike :) !
--- Jason

hey guys

just ordered an h30 without a viewing.

its like going down the stairs in the dark.......i hope i find the first step or it could be a big fall.

hope its as good as it sounds. hope to bring it to the Canuck Shootout 2 ........(get it dialed in!!!:) can't wait!!!

any idea when they start shipping from optoma again?

Originally posted by torontomapleleaf
any idea when they start shipping from optoma again?

I just asked them again today and there's no date set yet. I would expect it won't be too much longer now that the firmware upgrade's been approved.

"using the Optical center lined up to the screen center"

Yes this time I measured the exact center position of the lens to the center of the screen.

In the past I was lazy and just held the projector to a what I though was centered position. hehe Funny but why are the opening Star Wars Stories trailing off to the left of the screen. Moral get out the tape measure. :)

Welcome all new H30 owners, have no fear. The picture quality is pure class, way better then you can imagine..

hope its as good as it sounds. hope to bring it to the Canuck Shootout 2 ........(get it dialed in!!! can't wait!!!


now that is better i don,t feel so lonely down here any more , congrats man ;) you are going to love this pj

Well I am now officially Ceiling mounted :) .
--- I have a slight amount of tilt but not too bad , there is some keystone but I think I am going to leave it rather than adjust it out and mess with the gorgeous image ;) .
-- Noticed colors are different for some strange reason after Ceiling mounting ... hmmm . I have to re-calibrate from the service menu again as it seems that the green push came back a little . Seems very odd that inverting the PJ would cause this , could be the longer cable too I guess [ now using a 50' decent quality VGA - nothing High-End ] . I plan to get a shorter 25' and see how it goes .
---- I will be posting pics of the mount tonight ;) .
-------- Jason

I've been reading in this forum for the last 2 months and Guitarman and other have convinced me to buy an H30 (thanks for providing the details of your experiences).

I have 2 questions:

1) can I use a good quality VGA extention cable and use VGA to component adapter at the end to attach my future A/V Receiver (Harman Kardon AVR7300 - via component video)? and

2)is there a place that I can buy a 20'-25' power cord to use with this projector?

The reason I'm asking these questions is that I have a finished ceiling and I'm planning on running wires in a slim "wire molding" (WAF is important). I'm trying to get away from running bulky component wires as well as using extension for he power cord.

Can anyone answer my question or offer some advice. Thanks,

Mike

BTW: Those of you who have an H30 and are planning to get a new A/V receiver should check out the AVR7300. It has all of the following features:
1) component video up-conversion :D
2) Faroudja (fli2300) de-interlacer 480P :D
3) 4x3 to 16x9 stretch via Faroudja :)
4) DPL2x :cool:
5) 7x110 watts per channel :p

For those who care...

My wife told me I had received the prisms I hope will enable me to build a DIY anamorphic lens. Will be posting my impressions next week (will not be able to see them until then...)


:(

*** New Pics are up ;) ***
--- couple new gaming pics and 1 more from Nemo .
---- plus some pics of the Panavise mount .

____________________
Biggus75 ,
--- Just buy a long VGA breakout cable for use with the HK and avoid the adapter .
--- Doubt it as it seems to have a special plug at the PJ end so you can try Optoma or use a Heavy Duty Extension . I hope they do offer a longer Power Cord too as I could use one about 6' longer than the current cord [ which is around 7 or 8 feet I think ] .
______________________

------ Jason

Originally posted by Biggus75
I've been reading in this forum for the last 2 months and Guitarman and other have convinced me to buy an H30 (thanks for providing the details of your experiences).

I have 2 questions:

1) can I use a good quality VGA extention cable and use VGA to component adapter at the end to attach my future A/V Receiver (Harman Kardon AVR7300 - via component video)? and


Mike

BTW: Those of you who have an H30 and are planning to get a new A/V receiver should check out the AVR7300. It has all of the following features:
1) component video up-conversion :D
2) Faroudja (fli2300) de-interlacer 480P :D
3) 4x3 to 16x9 stretch via Faroudja :)
4) DPL2x :cool:
5) 7x110 watts per channel :p

Mike,

How many component inputs does the 7300 have?

Have you looked at the Denon 3805?
Also does video transcoding from composite and Svideo out to component line (only one line to run to the projector)... and it has three component inputs... most all of the receivers I have found in this price range only have two component inputs.

Steve

I tried to search this thread but no luck...
Could someone please answer this question:

If I am using european Optoma H30 (with VGA->RGB scart adapter included) do I get full resolution (800*600) 4:3 picture when I am watching 4:3 material (TV, DVDs) as follows:

Optoma H30 - VGA cable - VGA->RGB adapter - RGB switchbox - RGB cable - DVD player/TV digibox?

Or do I need the new firmware?

Thanks beforehand.

Originally posted by guitarman
I high up 4.3 screen is ok. Just about 9" or less down from the ceiling is where my 120" 4.3 starts. My projector will stay in the same position and the screen will be filled for 4.3 material. I have confirmed with wing that 16.9 from your DVD player will still be displayed at the bottom of the 4.3 screen.

I was hoping a component to VGA transcoder would open the 4.3 chip and allow a centered 16.9 view from my DVD player. Wings says no, the image would still go to the bottom of the chip and that the optics work better at that portion.

Absolute music to my ears!!! Thanks for verifying this. Sorry that you and hikarate will need to wait for the lens shift feature to obtain your ultimate configuration. This answer gives me mine. Sweet!!!

And by the way- congrats on page 100 of this great thread you started!!

"So this means gottahavapj is getting the H30 :) "

You got that right hikarate!!! MIKE!! send me that email soon that says one's on the way to me :)

Originally posted by DaGamePimp
*** New Pics are up ;) ***
--- couple new gaming pics and 1 more from Nemo .
---- plus some pics of the Panavise mount .

------ Jason

Wow! Great stuff Jason! I assume that is the 6" deluxe model? (no dirty remarks please :)) You should make up a quick cheat sheet for that mount, include some of your pics and start selling the whole thing as an H30 mount on ebay for $50 :) Very nice! Don't forget that safety chain :)

Man! you guys are great! Jason- I work in the Seattle area about 1 week out of 12. Perhaps I could come in a little earlier one Sunday than I usually do, drive the rental car down there and buy you dinner to swap stories... Good 'ole Mike will get some biz from me... Now if there was only a way to repay Tom... Hmmmm.. I guess I haven't had a good cigar in awhile :)

Cheers!!

Originally posted by guitarman
"using the Optical center lined up to the screen center"
Yes this time I measured the exact center position of the lens to the center of the screen.
In the past I was lazy and just held the projector to a what I though was centered position. hehe Funny but why are the opening Star Wars Stories trailing off to the left of the screen. Moral get out the tape measure. :)

I saw someone in another thread mention that he borrowed a laser pointer, taped it to the housing of his pj in perfect alignment with the lens and used this to guide his positioning of the screen or pj, I forget which he was mounting.

I thought that was a great idea...

Originally posted by DaGamePimp
*** New Pics are up ;) ***
--- couple new gaming pics and 1 more from Nemo .
---- plus some pics of the Panavise mount .


That Panavise mount looks pretty sweet. It looks like I probably won't be able to ceiling mount (ceiling's too high) where the projector needs to go. I'm thinking about getting a TV wall mount and hanging the projector from the bottom of it instead.

Re: the power cord, the plug is not the standard type, but there are some places that sell them. I'm just not too sure if you'll find a long one though.

Nothing to say. Just wanted to be Post #2000. :D

Gave up after page 30. Might I suggest a little summary on the first page? Ie. firmware fixes and whatnot. Post 2001!