I am getting ready to upgrade my projector. right now I have an Epson S1. The dilemma I have is do I want a pj with 1280 x 720 or a pj with 854 x 480. I have been reading threads in here for over a year. The wealth of knowledge in here is confusing me. Is it worth the extra $200 for the resolution? I mainly watch DVD movies and HD sports in my room. I've narrowed my search down to the 4805, H31, Z2 and the panny 500. I like all the feed back in this thread on the H31. There is nowhere around here to view the projectors. Any help would be great.

Nothing from the other camps, H56, H56a, H76, H77, EZ-pro's, 739's. Quite a list. :)

Jets, back when the H30 and 4805 first came out too many viewers preferred the contrast/3D image of the H30 & 4805 over the other two LCD projectors and would sacrifice the extra resolution.

HDTV may look a little cooler on the 720p LCD but HD looks very good on the 480p DLP because HD feeds are great and the DLP's have the super high contrast.

Another thing if you were viewing DVD on both these types of machines at the same time 10 times out of 10 you would prefer the 480p/3D.

Tom,
Thanks alot for answering my post. I think you solved my dilemma. I am going to try the H31. I have read the 26 pages in this post looking for the right reply. I finally had to jump in and ask. I have to say that by reading all the posts, I honor your opinion. I am a member at the spot also and then found out about this site in Sept '03. Registered in '04. I am hooked on reading this site everyday. Great people, free reviews.
Brother Grim

gotta. thanks, my friend..will not bother you any more. take care.

Took some new shots this morning. I ran a test with colorfacts also and the grayscale before calibration is very very close along the whole 6500k line. Still trying to figure the OTB contrast though ansi came in at 371.1 which is quite high if you've read ISF'd reviews. Usually ansi cr comes in around the 275.1 level.

Some HDTV shots, shows the brightness level with nice contrast and zippy resolution.
http://www.cigarbest.com/sales/h31hdtv1.jpg
http://www.cigarbest.com/sales/h31hdtv2.jpg
http://www.cigarbest.com/sales/h31hdtv3.jpg
http://www.cigarbest.com/sales/h31hdtv4.jpg

New movie Troy DVD player Bravo D1/dvi
http://www.cigarbest.com/sales/h31troy1.jpg
http://www.cigarbest.com/sales/h31troy2.jpg
http://www.cigarbest.com/sales/h31troy3.jpg

Originally posted by mangopony
gotta. thanks, my friend..will not bother you any more. take care.

mangopony does that mean you're getting off the fence and buying a projector only I think I'd miss hearing you richocheting from the H31 to the 4805 and back again.

Me thinks It's time to stop torturing yourself and dive in, remember you only pass this way but once.

Joking apart though I know how you feel, it was the same for me back last April when I couldn't decide whether to spend the extra money for the H30 over the X1.

In the end I went for the H30, am so glad I did and have'nt looked back, just straight ahead at the brilliant picture.


Regards, MikeDes

Tom, very nice shots. What kind/size screen are you using and how far back is the PJ from the sceen ?

It looks like you are using keystoning as the middle of the picture looks taller as compared to outer 1/3 on each side. The colors look great.

106diagonal 92"wide mat white screen. PJ is back 14'

I'll re try the colorfacts program at night. I used it this morning in the day and you can see everything in the room and not stumble as you walk about. Not the best environment for measuring.

Thanks for the info.. What brand screen ? I also added another comment to my previous post.

It's a dalite electric screen (non-tension). With non tensioned pull down screens you're obligated to go with Mat White or High Power materials.

Keystone, I use number 2 on keystone but you wouldn't be able to see it in a picture. I think what you're seeing is an optical thing with the camera. One trick I do when taking screen shots is to have the camera high and angle it down away from the ceiling and screen case reflections. Actually if you look at the screen case it looks bowed. :(

How about that HDTV? Looks pretty good heh :)

Mangopony, I have been reading through these forums for a while and no offence.....but there is a TON from where you are bouncing from H31 to 4805. It really does sound as if you are going crazy ;). So to save you from anymore "pain".... I will make the decision for you LOL...... As you know (I know you do) there is a certain projector that will be be on sale at a place with an INSANE return policy in a week and a half. BUY IT! Try it for as long as you need to. If you are not happy with it return it (they don't want you to be stuck with something you are not happy with). By then hopefully the 'other' projector will reveal any shortcomings and tweaks for them and you can buy that one. This to me is the most logical thing to do.....you will have NOTHING to lose. I hope you feel better now that I made your decision LOL!!!! By the way...I seriously mean no offence with this post.....you have helped a lot of people out on this forum......now it is time for you take the excellent advice you have been giving people :).
I personaly would not jump on an H31 until it has been out for a little while so anything (and there will be) that is wrong with it can be fixed or wrked through. If this projector was came out 2 months ago (which it really needed to I think) then this would be A VERY TOUGH decision but honestly.....I think it is a no brainer on what to go with. What may be the better PJ in 5 months......probably the H31....but by that time Infocus and other companies will be introducing something else. It is a never ending cycle......jump on now or you never will ;).

Nice pics Tom, especially the HD ones. Amazing how good HD can look on a 480p projector.

I may be getting one in a few days (we'll see what happens) and I'd like to do a little 4805 vs. H31 shootout.

Tom can you post the CCT and dE numbers? This is in CF PRo raw number data (rightmost button). dE is a good measure for how far off you are from D65 - it makes for a good % error. 6500K chart is a useless meaure - in fact the H30 I measured achieved 6500K. 6500K CCT is not D65 as it can be pushed magenta or green.

You certainly do want a stumble in the dark room for contrast measures!

Kras, I never got around to all the save screen details and even CR testing the last time I had CF. What I looked at this moring was a grayscale reading, the one were you save each level of IRE, I did save that initial one to a file. I'm trying to figure out how to do a full on full off reading. A screen asked for video card or outward IRE source and I chose outward figuring I'm using Avia patterns. This just gave me an ansi contrast reading. Still going thru the initial learning curve with the software. Lots of stuff in there. ;)

Originally posted by MikeSRC
Amazing how good HD can look on a 480p projector.
The pictures do look good, but the last HD one also shows the resolution limitations. On a higher resolution device you would most likely be able to read the yard numbers along the line at the bottom right. For a lot of material it probably won't matter, but if you've got a lot of small on-screen HD text, it makes the difference between being readable and not.

guitarman

It can do ON/OFF with AVIA. Best if you use a DVI source so you know you don't have calibration issues (other than PC vs. Video levels). I prefer the HTPC for reviews for the automation - real pain running greyscale with AVIA.

If you save the calibration to your address book - then you can run leave behind reports for later. But it does not let you reopen the database and look at the graphs anymore - which is annoying. So you have to open all the windows while you are doing the greyscale. Contrast is not saved anywhere - you have to type it in as a note.

My favorite trick is to save the CSV data from the CIE chart after greyscale/primaries/secondaries are measured. You can then load it up into a spreadsheet for later graphing. I have a database full of every mode in the NEC HT1100 done like this. Very cool.

Originally posted by uwradu
For a lot of material it probably won't matter, but if you've got a lot of small on-screen HD text, it makes the difference between being readable and not.

Well, obviously HD resolution provides more detail. The point is that when you think about the quality of picture (especially at that size) you're getting for a little over $1K, it's pretty impressive. Same goes for the 4805 as well.

I think I have the right idea. I get the 0ire and then 100ire and divide the low number into the 100ire number for CR.

guitarman,

CFPRO It does that for you with the contrast wizard - should be giving you a choice of ANSI vs. ON/OFF and computer vs. DVD for pattern source.
It will tell you which AVIA or DVE pattern to go to. And on AVIA the black pattern is labeled 7.5IRE - below black is 0IRE (not on AVIA but DVE) (misleading if you have black set at 0IRE on your player)

You will need to know how to convert from ftL or nits (cd/m2) back to lumens. The Eye-ONE screen measure I don't think is accurate - how does it compare to your Trichomat (screen and lens measures).

Originally posted by uwradu
The pictures do look good, but the last HD one also shows the resolution limitations. On a higher resolution device you would most likely be able to read the yard numbers along the line at the bottom right. For a lot of material it probably won't matter, but if you've got a lot of small on-screen HD text, it makes the difference between being readable and not.

This is true with a true HD display you have such a larger number of small pixels in a similar space. That's why they charge so much, much more real estate. But Mike's point is right, HDTV overall will make for a smoother more detailed image on a 480p machine, plus brightness is higher, there's more pop. OTA 480p looks a step up also, maybe a little better than DVD, specially news outdoor handy cam shots.

Originally posted by krasmuzik
guitarman,

CFPRO It does that for you with the contrast wizard - should be giving you a choice of ANSI vs. ON/OFF and computer vs. DVD for pattern source.
It will tell you which AVIA or DVE pattern to go to. And on AVIA the black pattern is labeled 7.5IRE - below black is 0IRE (not on AVIA but DVE) (misleading if you have black set at 0IRE on your player)

You will need to know how to convert from ftL or nits (cd/m2) back to lumens. The Eye-ONE screen measure I don't think is accurate - how does it compare to your Trichomat (screen and lens measures).

I ran into a wall on the wizard when I picked outboard patterns, it didn't bring up the choice for full on/off. I did see this choice pop up when I picked video card or computer generate patterns. This time I used the Tri-chromat, next up the One-eye.

I did tune the H77's progress signal to 6500k, took me about 30mins. Oh heres news for you, Wing told me to use the service picture RGB's to avoid having the huge menu screen in the center. ;)

I didn't do that this first time and I see what you mean. That menu screen spikes the RGB for a long moment and slows you down. No wonder you were pulling your hair out tuning DGP's H30. :)

Well that is wierd - no problems here with On/OFF and external patterns that I can recall.

Check for a CFPro update - maybe his binary was old.

I didn't use his CD I copied off of Milori and then activated it. Will look into it.

Originally posted by MikeSRC
the quality of picture (especially at that size) you're getting for a little over $1K, it's pretty impressive. Same goes for the 4805 as well.
I won't argue with that, and I'm still planning to get a 4805 (class?!) machine shortly. But some people around here make it sound like a true HD display buys you literally nothing tangible, which is just plain wrong. Some people do pay attention to parts of the image other than the large talking head in the center.

I have a HD machine but still enjoy the H31, got Van Hellsing going right now it looks more than excellent but it is DVD. With over 1,000 dvd's the H31 would come in handy. :)

I bought an open box Toshiba 5709 something HDMI player ($150) that works well with the H31. Some DVD forum users of the Toshiba thought it had problems but it works and looks very to go me. Image looks very similar to the Bravo series. Very clean, no ringing, good blacks, no white crush. I used the HDMI to DVI adpator with a 30' DVI cable with not problem.

Originally posted by NewToHT
Mangopony, I have been reading through these forums for a while and no offence.....but there is a TON from where you are bouncing from H31 to 4805. It really does sound as if you are going crazy ;). So to save you from anymore "pain".... I will make the decision for you LOL...... As you know (I know you do) there is a certain projector that will be be on sale at a place with an INSANE return policy in a week and a half. BUY IT! Try it for as long as you need to. If you are not happy with it return it (they don't want you to be stuck with something you are not happy with). By then hopefully the 'other' projector will reveal any shortcomings and tweaks for them and you can buy that one. This to me is the most logical thing to do.....you will have NOTHING to lose. I hope you feel better now that I made your decision LOL!!!! By the way...I seriously mean no offence with this post.....you have helped a lot of people out on this forum......now it is time for you take the excellent advice you have been giving people :).
I personaly would not jump on an H31 until it has been out for a little while so anything (and there will be) that is wrong with it can be fixed or wrked through. If this projector was came out 2 months ago (which it really needed to I think) then this would be A VERY TOUGH decision but honestly.....I think it is a no brainer on what to go with. What may be the better PJ in 5 months......probably the H31....but by that time Infocus and other companies will be introducing something else. It is a never ending cycle......jump on now or you never will ;).
Could you give me a hint as to where??? Anyone?

I've been following this thread and I'm really impressed with the H31. I'm planning on buying one soon.

My question is since the H31 has a video scaler and deinterlacer built in, can I feed it with my archaic 480i DVD player through component cable outputs and get a 720p picture?

If so, and not withstanding the potential quality improvements of DVI output, why would I need to buy a DVD player with progresive scan and upscaling?

The H31 will not upconvert 480i to 720p or 1080i, but it will deinterlace it to 480p and dispaly it that way. The upconverting DVD players actually convert the signal to 720p and 1080i, then feed it to the projector. While true 1080i will look better than a DVD with the H31, I wouldn't get too excited about an upconverted DVD on a 480p projector. A good progressive scan DVD player can give you a better picture (marginally) than the H31's built-in deinterlacing, but I wouldn't be too concerned about it.

Thanks Mike,

I will stick with my existing DVD player for the meantime and do some research on an appropriate upgrade.

Brian, you'll see a much cleaner picture thru DVI. Figure some dollars for a DVI cable and the price on HDMI/DVI players is pretty low. The H31 comes with a HDMI to DVI adaptor so you can take your pick.

Bravo
Mommistu
Sony
Toshiba
Pany S97

These are somewhat low in price and will to the job.

Thanks for the tip Guitarman,

I almost bid on a Bravo D1 on ebay yesterday, but researching AVS I noticed a lot of discussion about reliability issues with that unit. I decided to wait and do a little more homework.

In the process of looking into the DVD forums here I noticed some debate about the virtues of DVI vs. component cables. Some claim little or no improvement with DVI, and a few even claimed the picture looked better with component cables. Bottom line, it seems some DVD-projector combinations tend to work better together than others. So I'm very interested in hearing about DVI/DVD player recommendations that are known to work properly with this specific unit (H31).

P.S. I'm am absolute newby to projection TV. I just started reseatching a few days ago after viewing my brothers new projector setup (panny 700). Still, I have spent many hours reading these forums over the past few days and I particularly appreciated your's (and others') thorough and extremely informative posts. I was pretty much set on a Benq unit but your review of the H31 changed my mind. Thanks.

:) Those guys saying they can't see the benefit of DVI must be blind. I opted to ace the best Faroudja chipped players for the benefit of DVI clearity.

I just bought a Bravo D2 it doesn't arrive till after the end of the month. The D1 if you get a good one can work well. What they're talking about on the D1 mainly is a loader glitch. Sometimes you'll have to turn it off at the start to re-sync. Some D1's would stop during a movie which is bad but the two I've had never did that.

The D2 is supposed to be better in these area's. They seem to like the Sony. At least it doesn't have the Faroudja 23xxxxxx chip which is causing some problems per display (Macro blotches).

Hi everyone, well my H30 is having problems now and i'm pretty sure i'm gona get a H31 now, and right now i have the Samsung HD-841 dvd player with dvi output, i've heard that the dvi on the player is bad, but the component is better on it, right now i'm using component with it to the H30, should i stick with component or switch to dvi with the H31?

I also have my computer hooked up to it, and that is via DVI so if i hook both dvd player and computer with dvi, what's a good dvi switch? thanks again everyone

Arty

If you use component with the HD-841, you might just use 480i, since the H31's deinterlacer is probably better than the Sammy's. The 841's DVI output should be better than component though.

Gefen makes very good DVI switches.

Regarding, the Bravo D2, there's no improvement in PQ over a D1, so if you're one of the lucky few that doesn't have loader or freeze up problems with the D1, hang on to it. :D

I haven't tried the D2 with an H31 yet, but it was a noticeable improvement over my Panny RP-82 (among the best of the Faroudja equipped DVD players) with an InFocus 4805. Of course, there is a tradeoff on some discs since the Bravo doesn't have motion-adaptive deinterlacing, but then neither do most HTPCs from what I understand and they look great.

Arty get ready and get a DVI cable. Give the 841 a try. Allot of what technical testors talk about is just odd flagged spots in a small number movies when the majority are film flagged perfectly so you may never see a problem. I be more concerned about lock ups during a movie which are probably rare also. The worst thing I've read about is Faroudja chipped players causing Marco blotches in allot of video. Your 841 doesn't hv the faroudja chip. How long of a cabel do you need?

Whats a decent brand componet cable for a guy on a tight budget? I need one thirty feet long.
Thanks,
Chuck

Guitarman,

well the dvd player came with a dvi-d cable i believe, i think its says its dvi-i but it only outputs an dvi-d signal, and there is no middle pins on the dvi cable so yeah... that cable is about 6 feet long
i also got a dvi-i cable for my pc which i currently use with a dvi-vga adapter for the H30 and that is also like 6 feet, but the length i really need is 7 feet, maybe 8 feet with no stress between the two

but if i get a dvi switch box and then get another dvi-i cable it will be fine for length wise, but it could be possible to get my pc to hook up fine to the H31 with the dvi and if needed my component cables are long enough from the dvd player to the pj so yeah...

Arty

ADDED***
i guess the dvi cable that came with the dvd player is dvi-i but is a single link, and the one i have with my pc is dvi-i duel link so yeah...

Guitarman and others,

I'm trying to determine the appropriate screen size for my viewing environment. What do you think is the minimum viewing distance for this projector in terms of screen diagonal to avoid the screen door effect?

thanks

The viewing distance is usually measured as a function of screen width, not diagonal. Optimum distance to remove screen door is 2X screen width. For a 92" diagonal screen (80" wide), that would be 13.33' (160"). I sit about 1.8X though and it's fine. 1.5X would be too close.

Edit - Whoops, sorry for the bad math. I had 60" stuck in my brain for some reason. :rolleyes:

Well, unless I missed something, 2 x 80" is 160" or 13.33 feet. I sit at 1.85 screen widths away, but "peekaboo" screen door will still be visible during very bright scenes. A slight defocus helps immensely.

Thanks Fabbas. Slight brain cramp.

To clarify, I didn't mean to say that you can't see any SDE at 1.8X, it's just that it's not noticeable most of the time.

I have just purchased a 4805 and find it a very good to excellent projector. Just one thing..all these formulas and numbers and so on..where to sit in relation to screen size, etc., just remember, like in a movie threatre, some people sit in front row and some sit in back row and some sit in center. Bottom line these numbers are 'averages' and should be read as such. Everyone certainly does not 'see' things the same in this world and that certainly pertains to objects moving around on a screen. Try out different positions and forget the numbers or use them only as a starting gudie..nothing more and nothing less.

The H30 has a much less noticable screen door compared to the H31 and 4805. Even with that two times the screen width for me is 15' back (92") wide screen. I can be ok with the H30 at 14'. The H77 I can scoot up to 10". With the H31 I tend to go back further than 15', a foot or so more.

So far, I am sitting about 15 feet from my 76 in. dia. screen and the picture on the white matte screen is clear and clean and I am just watching DVDs and HD content. Now, waiting for football playoffs come Sunday.

Sounds good, I use mat white at first I thought the H31 was way too bright in econo but I got use to it and it seems fine now. Maybe the bulb needed a little edge taken off it.

Thanks for the info. Somehow I got it in my head that that the operative dimension was diagonal--not width. This is much better. My sofa is a little over 14 feet from where the screen would be. Do screens come in discreet widths? If I went with a 92 inch I'd be about 1.85x from the screen. Should I go for the next smaller size?

Thanks much.

BrianRC

If you don't mind me butting in - I use a 92" wide pull-down with my H30, seating is just over 14', and my wife and I are thrilled that we didn't get a smaller screen. SDE is not apparant, and I think it make a great combination. I'd go for it...

John F

92" wide 106" diagonal seems to be the perfect size for most rooms. It's actually looking small to me lately. :)

..and there is always a difference of opinion, but naturally. If not, no one would be here in this Forum. I believe the ideal screen should be from 76 to 92 inches. It is a good compromise between size of picture and colors, contrast and brightness of the 4805. I am going to end up with a 92 inch dia. white matte screen after checking and trying combinations for weeks for weeks. Each person has to expereiment and decide for himself what is best....for him.

..and, as mentioned before, do not be so concerned about the exact spot to sit when viewing a certain sized screen. Afterall, do you do the math each time you go to a movie threater. Some prefer to sit in front row and some in back and the remainder sit somewhere in between. How far to sit from a screen depends on a number of things to include the set up of your room and personal differences. You should also bring your sound system into play. Your sound will sound better in certain sitting locations even if you only have stereo such as yours truly. By the way, I prefer stereo well done over multi -channel setups.

..now, getting ready for 2 big games on my big screen!..making my daytime viewing room as dark as possible. Viewing at nite in a totally dark room is ideal with a projector, of course.

Originally posted by BrianRC
My sofa is a little over 14 feet from where the screen would be. Do screens come in discreet widths? If I went with a 92 inch I'd be about 1.85x from the screen. Should I go for the next smaller size?

Thanks much.

Personally, I would go with the 92". I'm using that size screen at about 13.5'. I've viewed both an H30 and a 4805 from that distance and have no problem with SDE. As Tom mentioned above, the DC2 chip used in the H31 and 4805 does have slightly more SDE, but I only notice it in bright scenes and it's still pretty light. YMMV

I now have the H30A on my test bench, must be one of the first on the continent.

First I thought I detected overscan, but there is this nifty new setting that allows you to zoom to format and it isn't standard off.

Next some real testing. Wow contrast is really the key to this shiny new thing, even better than a H30. Resolution improvement is top.

Even tried some HD files over DVI and this is just the best way to enjoy it at this price! Lookis really stunning, and I have a H57 and H77 next to it. And sure are better but when on a budget no way you have to spend much cash to enjoy as much as this little thingy does!

740x480 is very sharp and correct, all resolution patterns are real good, just the PAL patterns are improved by the H57.

One thing I can not get to work 1:1 854x480 pixelmapping at 50 Hz. I end up with tearing every time. Anyone an idea? (I used a Momitsu player conencted by DVI)

I got a 1.1 pixel map thru DVI with the Bravo D1 and using the Native aspect, NTSC though.

Maybe you can do something in the service menu by adjusting the CWI a few numbers lower.

Have you seen an H30? The first thing you notice with the H31/H30a is the black level and 3D/contrast, plus deeper blacks makes for even stronger colors. How about all the added aspect features, pretty cool aren't they?

Point blank question Tom:
Is the H31 a quieter, more fully featured varient of the 4805?

As an original 4805 owner, would I feel right at home with the H31's PQ?

Yes it's much quieter and is loaded with more features. You'll probably like the color tones better also. Try to get a look at one from a place with an easy return policy, see which you prefer better.

Tom, what would be your thoughts in regards to a screen? I'm using a silverscreen with my H30. From the sound of things, and the new contrast ratio, would it be best (given the choice) to go with a white screen with the H31???
Alter

I demo`d a 4805 and took my Sanyo Z1 to compare.. I was impressed by the improved contrast.

The H30A (as the H31) will be known in the UK is just becoming available.

Tom - how do you think the contrast compares to a 4805 - the calibrated contrast of a 4805 seem to hover around 2000:1 will the H31 be similar ?

The H31 is about £200 cheaper than the Infocus here.

Thanks

Karl

Billy:.............. Tom will answer you on contrast. In my opinion, they are both very good on contrast. I rate them about even, overall. I did buy the 4805 because, here in USA, the 4805 is generally less. If you can get the h31 for that much less, I would say..easily..go with the h31.

Originally posted by SuperSportBilly


The H31 is about £200 cheaper than the Infocus here.

Thanks

Karl


And from my experience I can tell you Optoma UK's support is top notch.

MikeDes

Originally posted by AlterEgo7
Tom, what would be your thoughts in regards to a screen? I'm using a silverscreen with my H30. From the sound of things, and the new contrast ratio, would it be best (given the choice) to go with a white screen with the H31???
Alter

Stay with that screen since the H31 is stronger in blacks and brightness.

About the contrast, contrast difference is easy to see over the H30 because of the much lower black level. Actual numbers I won't know unless I buy a light meter and I will. Probably about the same as the 4805. I don't think we're going higher than 2000.1 tuned down to 6500k.

Before I started looking at the H31 I was looking at the Optoma 739 because I may have some ambient light issues and the 739 is considered to be extremely light at 2300 lumens. I was discouraged when I read Tom's review on the H31 because while all the other specs looked great, the H31 was only rated at 800 lumens. But now I'm reading all these comments about how extremely bright the H31 is.

How is this possible? How can these two projectors both be viewable in the same viewing environment when one has 3 times the brightness rating of the other? I would think that if the H31 looks fine, then the 739 would be excessively bright and unviewable -- or the reverse would be true.

Brian,

Most info I have seen puts the 739 at under 500 lumens after optimization for video. Specs are pretty much BS when you get down to it. I trust AVS member eyes much more than vendor literature.

BrianRC

Brightness required has everything to do with screen size and room ambient light- and the lumens driving it.

Sure a conference room projector needs 2000 lumens to overcome office lighting, and a company meeting room projector needs 4000 lumens to drive the huge whiteboard screen. And a 1000 lumen HT projector on the 10' living room screen is just as bright as the 500 lumen HT projector in the dedicated 6' widescreen room.

They can all be just as bright. Screen brightness is measured in ftL. Projector brightness is measured in lumens. Screen brightness is primarily inversely proportional to screen area - leaving only projector brightness and screen gain left as tools to fine tune the system brightness.


Sure you can use these business projectors in your living room and watch TV during the day with the lights on even. But at night watching DVD's - all you will notice is the pale unnatural colors, poor contrast - and the headache you will get from such a bright image.

Now some of the business projectors have calibration controls so you can turn them into something like the HT projector - but they are never as good as an optimized HT projector on natural colors and contrast - and often end up being just as bright.

Makes sense to me. Thank you both for clearing that up.

I ordered 2 H31 projectors as I found a better deal after I ordered the first one, now I am going to have to sell one or pay a 15% restocking fee to return it for a refund. Where would the best place be to try and find a buyer? Does eBay work well for higher end electronics?

Other than this issue, the Optoma is absolutely incredible! I have ordered a 110" Firehawk from Jason here at AVS, can't wait to try it out. Right now I have a 92" Da-Lite HC cinema perf which is still amazing!

Time to watch my movies all over again!

Thanks for any suggestions!!

-chris

Sounds like me buying stuff I don't need. I have two colorfacts systems. :)

Try a free add in the HT-sales area. You find it up top in the forum. Glad you like the picture.

Brian, Kras told you about the pitfalls of data projectors. Here's real time images of the difference of the HT1100 nec and the NEC 260k data model. Pictures supplied nicely by Andrea at HT-projectors.

http://www.cigarbest.com/sales/nec260k1.jpg


http://www.cigarbest.com/sales/nec260k2.jpg

Ah! guess which one is the data model and it was tuned best it can for HT?

The reason the H31 is brighter is the 16.9 frame the light goes thru in addition to the brighter bulb.

Tom,

Kras made his point well, but a picture is worth a thousand words. Thanks. I'm sold on the H31. I got a used Bravo D1 on ebay today; so now it's on to the perplexing world of projector screens.

I've been surfing the screen forums recently and I'm more overwhelmed by the options (and cost!) than I was on the projector forums. When I think I have some idea of what might be the right way to go, I'll come back to check with this H31 forum to see if you agree.

Brian

BrianRC

What is sad - some people have looked at those pics and insist the LT240K was better than the HT1100!

Cine4home.de also posts a good castle pic that really shows the difference between calibrated and not.

BabelFish this page on Cine4Home.de Know How on Picture Calibration.

http://www.cine4home.de/knowhow/ProjektorKalibrierungsMerkmale/ProjoTuning1.htm

guitarman

if you could do your readers a ColorFacts service and figure out which number settings are closest to 2.2/2.5 gamma and D65 setting - sure everyone will appreciate it. At least until the firmware gets revved that is- and things change. I have people asking me based on my H30 ISF review - I tell them who knows what the current firmware settings are!

Hey all,

I'm finally posting after reading for the last 2 or 3 months. My H31 showed up today and yes I'm running blind here because no one around me has either the Optoma or the Infocus to look at so thanks to all who have posted.
I have a Da-lite mod. B 106" dia. gray screen ready to go in my basement and all the wiring and sound system done. So it was torture to let the H31 sit up stairs warming up to room temp (it was 10 deg. today).
A ceiling mount I ordered will be here tomorrow but of course I couldn't wait...lol Grabbed a tall stool, plugged in the projector, threw in a movie and let it fly. Also the wife was on the treadmill right next to me while I was hooking it up.
The picture was all I could have hoped for plus my wife loved it (the most important part). The H31 is whisper quiet, a slick little unit. When I get it mounted properly I'll try to get some screen shots.
Special thanks to guitarman for all your info on this projector!!!!

tomgarz

Hey Tom, Glad you like it. You guys are lucky getting such a great picture for these prices. I shake my head every time I think of the Sharp Z90 budget HT model that I bought, msrp was $3995.

The H31 is way better in all area's also.

I’ve spent a lot of time studying screen options over the past few days and a few realities about my unique circumstance have sunk in:

1. I have no alternative but to set my projector up in my living room and my living room is a lousy environment for home theater -- white walls and ceiling, light tan carpet, and skylights to boot. Watching video during the day is going to be pretty much out of the question. Even at night, reflected light is still going to be a big issue. (I left a couple of pictures of the room in my gallery).

2. I have vaulted ceilings so a ceiling mount for the projector is out of the question. The projector will have to sit slightly above and behind the viewing area (about 15 feet back). Given the resulting distance and zoom limitations of the H31, 106” is the only possible screen diagonal for my situation. This will yield 26 ftL according to the projectorcentral calculator. (See the picture in my gallery titled “seating area.” The H31 will be sitting on the white banister at the bottom of the pic.)

3. The screen is going to be mounted over a patio door, so a roll-up screen is the only possibility. After examining the available options, the manual Da-Lite screens seem to be the best value and provide a wide variety of screen material options.

I’m thinking that the standard Matte White screen will not be optimal for my circumstance. I need to consider screens with a restricted viewing angle to minimize reflected light off of all the light surfaces, and a little more gain couldn’t hurt (who knows, if I get the right screen I may be able to watch during the day after all!)

Here are the choices from Da-Lite:

High Contrast Matte White........ Gain: 1.1.…… Viewing Angle: 45°
Video Spectra 1.5.……................ Gain: 1.5 …....Viewing Angle: 35°
Silver Matte …............................ Gain: 1.3 …....Viewing Angle: 30°
High Power…............................. Gain: 2.8 ….....Viewing Angle: 25°

The High Contrast Matte White is essentially the grey option and would be a safe choice. I see nothing on these forums about the Silver Matte, and a few good things about the Video Spectra. Meanwhile, there’s a lot of talk about the High Power screen; mostly good, some bad. There seems to be a bit of cult on these forums about ultra-brite, high gain screens -- some of which are very expensive. They are said to be “plasma- like” and “punchy.” Big on the “wow” factor with guests.

I’m tempted by the allure of high gain. But notwithstanding the limited viewing angle which I think I can live with, I’m also worried about hot spots and the screen possibly being “too bright” for normal night-time viewing. However, assuming I can get this screen working at night in econ mode, there will be an added benefit in that I may also be able to watch during the day in STD mode.

I’m eager to hear your thoughts.

Brian

For Dalite non-tensioned pull down screens you got only two choices. High Power or Mat White. All the rest will show waves with video. I've had the HP and it didn't hot spot. High power material is thicker, so it hangs flatter.

Brian,

Tom is right. I have the High Power 92" diagonal along with an X1. It's a pull-down screen which sits above and just in front of our 64" Pioneer widescreen set.

There is a gain advantage even going high on the projector mount with this screen. Of course, the higher you go, the less the gain but the lack of waves is great. I also have a High Contrast Matte White pull down screen of the same dimensions and it does have waves.

You do suffer on the viewing angle and you'll have to live with that if you go this route. But it sounds like you need all the help that you can get as your room is working against you.

You should try a High Contrast screen by the way. We used to have off-white walls and a white ceiling with a beige carpet before we painted the room and added the darker area floor matt's. What we found was that the High Contrast screen looked very good with white walls and ceiling but after the paint job, it showed images way, way too dark and hence we switched to the High Power which did the trick.

Good luck!

Wayne

Thanks for the feedback folks,

I think I've made up my mind on this. Fact is, I live alone so 90% of the time it'll be just me sitting in the sweet spot of the vewing area.

This discussion also points up another big advantage of the H31 over the 4805. The H31 has vertical lense shift so you can actually mount it perpendicular to the screen to reap the maximum benefit of the high power screen (i.e. light from the project will be projected directly back to the viewer). You could do this with the 4805 also, but you'd have to compensate with the keystone adjustment which would distort the image somewhat.

BrianRC -

I'm using a 92" wide DaLite pull-down (non-tensioned) with the HP material - H30 used to be floor mounted (very bright image but still good contrast and no hot-spotting with the H30 properly adjusted.) Now that the PJ is ceiling mounted, the screen is still very enjoyable but has considerably less (almost no?) gain. I've gotten used to the look of it ceiling mounted, and am even getting to the point where I enjoy it.

I painted the DaLite housing wall-color, so it looks not unlike a piece of crown molding over the rectanular opening between the living and dining room when retracted.

Everyone is right about no visible waves with HP material - I've never seen a single wave when movie-watching.

John F
Las Vegas, NV

If you are sitting center seat with DaLite High Power with the projector table mounted you get the advertised 2.8 gain. If you are left/right seat with table mount or center seat with ceiling mount - figure on 1.5 gain. If you are left/right seat with ceiling mount - figure on 1.0 gain.

For ceiling mount the better (and more expensive) gain screen is the Vutec SilverStar - as is the opposite gain structure of High Power - it loses it's gain with table mounts not ceiling mounts.

The increased black levels with HighPower are the trade-off for the thicker more expensive material. But you do not always get the advertised gain in your setups! Get the sample screens - if your projector is not mounted yet - stand on the table to simulate ceiling mount and see which has the gain you need. Don't forget that lamps will drop 50% in brightness over time.

BTW you can order Da-Lite pulldown screens with black casing and extra black drops for extra charge - just ask your (AVS) dealer! Painting to match the room is a cool idea though! Did you have to use enamel spray paint or did latex wall paint work? The DaLite Designer Contour case can even be veneered (for those with money to burn!)

well 80hr on unit still going strong totaly satisfied

<<Painting to match the room is a cool idea though! Did you have to use enamel spray paint or did latex wall paint work? >>

I used a small foam trim roller with the same latex paint as the walls got with perfect results (had to use a small brush for things like the wire loop for pulling down the screen) - I'll post a pic link if you are interested in seeing how it looks...

John F

"figure on 1.5 gain. If you are left/right seat with ceiling mount - figure on 1.0 gain."

Kras these figures are off because I had the Mat White and High Power at the same time, also used the 1.5 Video Spectra.

A High Power screen is more like 1.8 with the projector ceiling mounted because it looked way brighter than the Mat White 1.0 and brighter than the 1.5 Video Spectra.

Great screen material for high contrast projectors, especially if you have to go non-tensined pull down.

If you haven't posted your settings for the H31 on the forum before is it possible to get them or is it to much of a PIA to do.
Loving the H31, Nemo is really impressive on it.

tks

I could post numbers for people to take a look at but in general numbers don't transpose from machine to machine. I found that out with the HT1000. Members got different results and mostly not so good.

Do you have Avia?

guitarman

Depends entirely on your throw and drop. Short/long throw can give different results because of decreased vertical angle with long throw. As well as high offset vs. len shifted projectors. Basically anything that decreases head to projector angle from screen improves the gain.

This is what I saw at my typical setup, projector back 14' with a 92" wide 106" diagonal screen.

Ecellent screen that high power. Most everybody that used it said the brightness isn't all lost with a ceiling mount, usually they say it looks like 1.5 gain, that's just an average, they're saying is looks nice and bright.

If you go fixed screen dalight you have plenty of options but it costs and it's not cost effective vs the px of the PJ.

rgr that....a friend at work has Avia but he's never used it. I'll hit him up for it and check it out. Can that really improve the picture that much. The out of box picture is very impressive to me. I saw a Benq projector a couple of weeks ago, don't remember the model # but the cost was $3500 just a couple of months ago. The owner is coming over to see the H31 and I'll bet money he's not going to be happy...lol


tom

Actually fixed frame framing costs more - but DIY framing with canvas stretcher bars from the art store and bare fabric is usually less than equivalent pulldown.

Is the Optoma H-31 going to be an acceptable inexpensive solution for HD DVD when it comes around in the future? I own an H-30 and I would consider and upgrade to the H-31 as long as it really will do justice to HD-DVD when it comes around.

HD will be about the same res wise with the H31 having a little more 3D ,due to the Dark chip.

Ken: I have the 4805 and consider the specs and images on screen between 4805 and h31 very close. I have compared the h30 but not the h31. Speaking for the 4805 (Infocus), I can re-assure you that HD content properly presented will look great on these projectors. I use pretty much dead center numbers on the 4805 with a boost in contrast. When viewing HD content on a 480p projector, I believe it good to sit back, at least, 2 times width of screen and 2.5 is even better. I find a better quality picture at around 72' (sharper picture). It also becomes brighter, of course, at smaller image size. Understand, these are my observations; many do not want to give up size to gain somewhat sharper and brighter picture. This is a personal matter.

Have any formal reviews of the H31 appeared lately that I'm nor aware of? I'm interested in whether the higher spec brightness and contrast hold up after calibration compared to the 4805. I know Kraz is sceptical because of Optoma's track record, but some hard figures would be nice also.

Thanks for the replies Guitarman and Mangopony. I think what I really need to do is uitilize my H-30 with an HD source, something I have yet to do. Perhaps I will try it for the Super Bowl this Sunday instead of the RPTV.

I use a Draper Traveler white matte screen that I setup just in front of the RPTV for weekend DVD viewing. I like the feature on the H-31 that allows an ajustment for 2:35 to one anamorphic to get rid of the black bars. I setup the H-30 on a small coffee table/slash end table and raise the Draper screen. All I'd need to do is an initial adjustment to the telescoping pole and make a mark for 2:35 to one and it will simplify the setup that way. One mark for 2:35 to one and another for 1:85. The H-31 may well be my best fit. What will the market bear for a slightly used H-30 with around 500 hours on the bulb?

Hello all, I have a really newbie question in regards to the H31. The Optoma web site states that this unit has digital lens shift. Is this a shift similiar to the ones out there like the Panasonic AE700 or is it just the basic positions. I have a short ceiling situation, I know a personal problem ;) , but am concerned about the drop if I ceiling mount, which is critical for WAF. Can I use the lens shift on the H31 to raise the image without having to use keytone? Thanks in advance for your response.

Mike

The digital shift moves the image within the 16.9 frame. It's best funtions are for moving a 2.35 up to delete the top bar while raising you screen up from the bottom to delete the bottom bar. Or you can shift a 1.85 TV image up if there's junk on the top from the TV channel. But for this the H31 also has an edge mask feature which will do the same thing. Plus it has the memory shift to remeber the distance you shifted for the next time you view a 2.35 movie and want to do away with the bars.

What you're wanting is a physical lens shift.

Tom,

This is discouraging news. The H31 owners manual is very unclear on the limitations of the lens shift function. If it functions as you say they shouldn't be calling a lens shift at all since it isn't really moving the lens. If it is, in fact just a digital correction, then what you say makes perfect sense.

I guess I'll be forced to use keystone correction to mount the projector as I had planned after all. Do you know the range in degrees of keystone correction available on the H31? The maunal doesn't say. Never having set one of these things up before I can only hope the distortion induced by keystone correction will not be too visible.

At projector central they give the throw figures. My setup I have the Pj 14' back and the offset would be about 12" for a 92" widescreen, which is pretty typical for projectors.

Again I am confused. Wouldn’t the offset angle be independent of screen size? The H31 manual states the angle of offset as 7.42 degrees. At 14 feet that would translate to an offset height of 22 inches.

I can't give you an explanation of offset but it is dependent on screen size specifically screen height. Infocus has a good image and description and calculation. This is for the 4805 but they have them for all their projcetors. I wish optoma had something similar to this. The diagram in their manual is confusing to say the least.

http://www.infocus.com/service/sp4805/faq-installation.asp?site_lang=1&site_region=1&cat=offset

Originally posted by guitarman
At projector central they give the throw figures. My setup I have the Pj 14' back and the offset would be about 12" for a 92" widescreen, which is pretty typical for projectors.

Looks like the center lens is down 5" and the screen start is down 13" for mw. The screen is a little high and I use a couple of numbers on the keystone. If you want your screen higher you can use a little keystone.

Originally posted by BrianRC
Again I am confused. Wouldn’t the offset angle be independent of screen size? The H31 manual states the angle of offset as 7.42 degrees. At 14 feet that would translate to an offset height of 22 inches.

Exactly. Offset *angle* is independent of screen size. Offset in *inches* depends on throw distance, or on screen size (which depends on screen size :)) if you prefer to think of it that way.

~ Kiran <entropy@io.com>

I am surprised that no reviews of this unit have popped up other than this thread. It really sounds like a great projector.

I would love to see a well written review of a side by side with the Infocus 4805....

foxdvd. There have been reviews of both on here but not side by side. I would guess pq quality to be very close, brightness and contrast. Colors could be a little more vivid with h31. I know from using one that the colors on a 4805 are very natural. The h31 is somewhat more quiet but, with me, that is a non-factor with the 4805. And we all hope the early burn out of bulbs is not to be found on the h31. Bottom line, they are both very close in pq and the price was deciding factor for me. Plus a great return policy. They are probably the ones to buy at this price level and, maybe, even to a higher price level. Both display HD content very well.

Originally posted by mangopony
foxdvd. There have been reviews of both on here but not side by side. I would guess pq quality to be very close, brightness and contrast. Colors could be a little more vivid with h31. I know from using one that the colors on a 4805 are very natural. The h31 is somewhat more quiet but, with me, that is a non-factor with the 4805. And we all hope the early burn out of bulbs is not to be found on the h31. Bottom line, they are both very close in pq and the price was deciding factor for me. Plus a great return policy. They are probably the ones to buy at this price level and, maybe, even to a higher price level. Both display HD content very well.

Yes, I think most would agree that both units are great values. Really, if you wanted to stay with DLP, you would have to spend about 600 more for the Benq 7800 to make a step up. It still would be nice to see a show-down with these two units (4805 vs H31)

The bulb life would be the only reason I would even think to hold off on the H31...everything else on the H31 seems to be equal or better, with the exception of maybe interlaced signals (which is not a prob if you have a good dvd player) and the fact that out of the box, the Infocus seems to need less tweeking....

I have never seen the Infocus but my H31 out of the box picture is outstanding. Everyone thats seen the colors on Nemo are totally suprised. The colors are bright and sharp and more than equal to my widescreen Toshiba I bought last year. Guess I should mention my screen size..106" dia on a da-lit gray pull down screen.

It would be fun to put these 2 projectors side by side.

tom

Tom: Elsewhere I have stated in direct comparison with commwecial 480p Panny plasma and 4805 (both at 42" screen size (or close for the 4805) the displays are about equal across the board. Maybe the plasma has a slight edge at contrast and brightness but colors are extremely close with the plasma toward vivid and the Infocus toward natural if I can put it that way. As you increase the size of picture with 4805 the quality slowly goes down but, at 76" there is still a very good image. Of course, total darkness is the best for the projector.

Originally posted by foxdvd
The bulb life would be the only reason I would even think to hold off on the H31...
There is absolutely no data to support that there will be any issues with H31 bulb life so I would not let this sway you. Even though the H30 had a few issues with premature bulb failure (mine for one), the H31 uses a 200W bulb where the H30 had a 180W one. It is obviously a different bulb. This coupled with the fact that no other Optoma projector has had any reports of a high number of premature bulb failures should be enough to make this a mute point.

Cheers!

Originally posted by tomgarz

It would be fun to put these 2 projectors side by side.


I'm hoping to do just that very soon. Just waiting on a review sample from Optoma.

Have you guys had a chance to try the H31 with some SD Directv...is the picture ok? I'm going to be projecting about 80" diag. I know the 4805 has the Faroujda chip, does it make that big of a difference? I hope I'm not dumbing down the thread too much. Thanks for your help

Mike

gotta: I agree and believe the 2 projectors are very close in overall quality on the screen. Of course, people will have personal opinions favoring 1 over the other and that is to be expected. As I have said, price was the main deciding factor (to include a great return policy. It will be interesting to see the next version of the 4805 later this summer. A boost in contrast and brightness would be welcomed. The colors in both projectors are very close to being right on as it is. I saw the 4805 compared with a $10,000 unit and, on natural colors alone, I honestly believe the Infocus was equal or very close to colors on the expensive unit. I am confident the h31 is right there as well.

Originally posted by mbratch
Have you guys had a chance to try the H31 with some SD Directv...is the picture ok? I'm going to be projecting about 80" diag. I know the 4805 has the Faroujda chip, does it make that big of a difference? I hope I'm not dumbing down the thread too much. Thanks for your help

Mike

I thought SD from comcast looked very good and I know Directv should look better contrast wise, maybe directv has a little more mpeg artifacts around logo's but that not a big deal, I'll take the added contrast.
The pixelworks scaler does a top notch job so you'll be ok.
What I really like for SD is the 1.66 aspect, check it out.

I am about to update my old LCD projector, and was all set on the Infocus 4805, but I have to admit that the Optoma has my attention. A few questions...

When you have the projector take 1.85:1./2.35:1 DVD movies and have them zoomed in to fit a 16/9 screen, is there a noticeable drop in quality? It would seem that by doing this you would actually be using more lines of resolution for the image, but does this make the image washed out, or add any strange digital artifacts? How does the overall quality of the movie compare to keeping it a smaller image but the proper aspect ratio?

I would assume that if you were to take a 2.35.1 non-anamorphic DVD and set it to fill your screen, that it would make the image more washed out, is this the case?

It's best to use the least amount of zoom, maybe 1 up from native. The image will be larger and not take too big a hit in image quality and loss of video.

I think the best feature it has is the 1.66 aspect for 4.3. I wish I had it on my other projector. Makes 4.3 more tolerable.

Do you think its worth buying a DVD player that upscales to 1080i or are those players a lot of hype?

tomgarz

We used our H-30 for the first time to watch live TV. The Super Bowl looked pretty darn good in HD through the H-30. Real good. Its scray to think what it muyst look like through a native 720P projector. If the H-30 even minimally improves HD material it seems a good buy especially with the image shift feaure and the added options for scaling. My finger is reaching for the trigger. And on the other hand I am thinking of the BenQ 7800 as a step up.

Question for anybody who knows for sure. I do not see a replacement bulb for the H-31 listed at the Optoma web site. It lists the bulb for the H-30. Do the two units use the same bulb?

tomgarz

upsampling players are nothing but hype on a 480p display. Now some may have compared those players 480i outputs and decided the upsampling outputs was better. That really just meant that the 480i was defective and the projectors deinterlacing was bad. If you were manufacturing an upsampling player - would you spend you money on upsampling - or 480i quality?

The math simply does not work - upsampling only to downsample will cause a softness of the image due to double scaling to resolutions that are not multiples/divisors of each other.

Stick to a decent progressive player and don't pay for the hype.

Originally posted by tomgarz
Do you think its worth buying a DVD player that upscales to 1080i or are those players a lot of hype?

tomgarz

It's a must for DVD, since I don't have a DVI switcher I prefer my DVD gets the digital stream. HDTV uses the component. Digital video is cleaner. A low priced player that's good is a Toshiba SD5970. You'll need an HDMI-male to DVI-female adapter because the players HDMI only. If you search and review this player you'll see bad press but don't listen they don't hv a clue. The player is every bit as clean as a Bravo without all the hiccups. The video quality is top notch, no pixel crops, no Y/C, stellar for a 1.1 pixel match with the native aspect.

Kras, help me out. What's the procedure for hooking up the RF modulator. My comcast PVR just has one coaxial in. I have to some how involve the DVD player with the comcasts 1080i signal and get it over to the PJ? I'm confused.

Unplug the Comcast cable and plug in the RF modulator. Plug your known good DVD Svideo into the RF modulator. Boot into the service menu of the PVR - (power off, menu) and change to the upsampled output 1080i with 4:3 override off. Tune to Ch3/4.

I was surprised it worked since technically OTA and cable channels are slightly different - but they must use an off-the shelf tuner that can handle the OTA just fine.

I have not done my PVR yet - but I have done a customers basic Comcast box. I have also had the trick work on Samsung DirecTV boxes (you have to configure those for OTA)

Thanks I'm messing around with the stuff right now. :)

Still confused. I plugged the cable line into the RF-mod. I then connected a DVD player with S-video into the RF-mod. Then I ran the RF-mods coaxial out to the comcast box. Reset the service area to 1080i 480i override off. The RF-mod is set to 3 and tuned to channel 3 on the comast box. I see the channels TV show but not DVD players signal. Still confused :)


aaah! must have a bad Radio shack box the LED won't light up. Frustrating

I had a similar problem - it does not light up if the cables are not plugged in and the sources are not on. It is not an ON light - it is an ACTIVE light! Took me two returns to figure that out. Some DVD players need to be told to output Svideo - check your players menu - and run Svideo to the projector to be sure it is on!

Thx I'll check the player menus for svid on.

Ok the s-video is on I checked it direct to the projector. No LED light yet. Is this setup suppose to be transcoding thru the component out cables of the comcast box? Component is the feed I have going to the projector right now.

Yes I have done this with component out of the cable box! But then it was not the PVR model - maybe they do have different RF input circuits? I will try on my PVR (in a few weeks - busy!)

Or it must be a bad RF box!

Wouldn't a good s-video signal be enough to light the LED?

Maybe your coax cable is bad? It might be check for a load as well.

I finally get my h31, they are shipping it off today, so i should get it in a couple of days :D about time, i guess there was alot of confusions about my trade/upgrade from the h30 to h31, took like 2 weeks, sat around for like a week, but ohh well... the overall price i had to pay is 370, 70 for shipping it down to optoma and 300 for the upgrade(actually the restocking fee) but yeah... i cant wait :D i've been missing a pj for too long :D gotta catch up on my movies :P

Arty

Sounds good Arty except for the restock fee, what are they charging 25% :(

Anyway you should be way happy with the H31. You'll notice the brightness and the dark blacks which makes the colors even better.
Let us know what you think when you check it out.

yeah 25% restocking fee, kinda sucks, but i look it as like buying a new bulb, and this time it comes with a new machine :D had 500 hours on the H30 so it got used, but i never found out what was wrong, Optoma Tech never got back to me on that one... but ohh well... now i just have to wait for the H31 to get here from shipping :D, but yeah guitarman, i'll let you know what i think... and by the way... is there any cheap dvi switches out there? cause my pc and dvd player have dvi output... thanks

Arty

I know this is a long shot, but does anyone have an H31 in the St. Louis, MO area that would care to demo it? I may be selling my Benq 6100 this weekend, and have my sites set on th H31. From the excellent reviews, I'm pretty much ready to buy it without seeing it, but a look wouldn't hurt. I have so many sources that I haven't been able to watch using dvi. Component signals have served me well, but dvi through the H31 has got to look great!!

Tom/guitarman,

Could you please tell us a measured Contrast Ratio with Colorfacts?

Nacho.

CR, Later this week, I ordered a light meter for the job.

Arty you'll have to research a DVI switcher, think I heard of one here that's around $200.

I have the H31 sitting in my home theater room, and I agree with everyone else that the picture quality is wonderful. Nice colors, nice contrast, no rainbowing, and the picture is very bright. I have no complaints about the picture at all.

The problem is that I picked the H31 largely based on everyone saying that it's a really quiet unit, especially compared to comparable models. But for me, it is annoyingly loud. During quiet scenes in movies, I sometimes have to raise the volume in order to hear voices. There is no way that it's 30dB as listed on the website. Generously, I'd say it's 50dB+. I don't have a decibel meter, but based on published noise levels for some home appliances, it ranks up there with the refrigerator and air conditioner for me. I can hear the fan from 20-25 feet away very easily.

People mentioned an 'econo mode' 8 times in this thread so far and talked about how it was whisper silent. I'm wondering if maybe that's how to get the noise level down. But I don't see an option for 'econo' mode in any of the menus or the manual.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Originally posted by guitarman
CR, Later this week, I ordered a light meter for the job.

Great Tom!

I have also Colorfacts and I had measured some very good projectors, It will be nice to compare it to the H31, if the results are as I think, may be my next projector that H31. :D

Nacho.

Originally posted by alysenne
The problem is that I picked the H31 largely based on everyone saying that it's a really quiet unit, especially compared to comparable models. But for me, it is annoyingly loud. During quiet scenes in movies, I sometimes have to raise the volume in order to hear voices. There is no way that it's 30dB as listed on the website. Generously, I'd say it's 50dB+. I don't have a decibel meter, but based on published noise levels for some home appliances, it ranks up there with the refrigerator and air conditioner for me. I can hear the fan from 20-25 feet away very easily.

People mentioned an 'econo mode' 8 times in this thread so far and talked about how it was whisper silent. I'm wondering if maybe that's how to get the noise level down. But I don't see an option for 'econo' mode in any of the menus or the manual.

Not sure why your unit seems so loud. When my H31 was just on a table behind me I barely heard it running, then I ceiling mounted it and the fan seemed more noticeable if I though about it but as soon as any sound from the movie came on it was gone. The whisper silent comment was probably a bit of a exaggeration because I was suprised by how quiet the unit was when I first turned it on.

My wife has never even made a comment about the sound of the unit and she can hear me from the other end of the house...lol. You should try to see another unit at someone else's house if possible (if you around Michigan, give me a yell).

As far as the 'econo mode' I think they may be talking about the different brightness settings....I tried them but they did not seem to effect the sound level....

tomgarz

remember, the 4805 is mentioned as being noisier than the h31 and, with me, the noise with the 4805 is a non-factor. And I am quite critical of unwanted noise along with my audio.

Yes, the 4805 was my primary choice until I started reading complaints from people regarding the noise levels.

For my unit, I can't imagine the fan being slower because the enclosure and the air moving through the unit is quite hot. In order for the fan to be slower, I had thought that there must be a setting to reduce the brightness dramatically. Watching a movie at night time or in a light controlled room, the picture is very bright without turning on brite mode.

Hmm...It's possible that I simply don't have a good frame of reference. A/V dealers around where I live all have fairly expensive projectors on display and all of them were very loud.

I might also be very sensitive to the noise. I just spent a lot of time/effort/money into silencing my computers so much that I can't even tell they are on. In comparison, to me, the H31 sounds like having several cheap 80mm case fans blaring at full 12V speed.

The good thing is that the noise signature is very low pitched and does blend into the background as well as could be expected. If it had any whine or high pitched signature to it, it would be a big problem.

I got my H-31 today. The H-30 is going on the proverbial auction block. I will get a chance to compare them side by side until I find a buyer though.

I have never found the noise level of the H-30 to be intrusive or bothersome. At times I do note I can hear it but not to the extent that it detracts from my enjoyment of the film...even in quiet parts of a movie dominated by dialogue only.

So have most of the owners of the H-31 found a need to tweak the colors much? I have not read this complete thread (too lazy) other than one post early on by Guitarman that the out of the box settings were to be pretty darn good.

I do not have a DVI digital output DVD player. Does the image really improve greatly as opposed to a good model progressive component out?

I use a Panasonic RP-91. I have heard the Bravo's do well but the reliability of those machines is apparently less than desired. I also read that HDMI DVD players that would require a HDMI/DVI adaptor wreak havoc with black levels on those players when used in conjuntion with a HDMI/DVI adaptor. I am no expert but I would appreciate some inputs.

Thanks

Originally posted by alysenne
Yes, the 4805 was my primary choice until I started reading complaints from people regarding the noise levels.

For my unit, I can't imagine the fan being slower because the enclosure and the air moving through the unit is quite hot. In order for the fan to be slower, I had thought that there must be a setting to reduce the brightness dramatically. Watching a movie at night time or in a light controlled room, the picture is very bright without turning on brite mode.

Hmm...It's possible that I simply don't have a good frame of reference. A/V dealers around where I live all have fairly expensive projectors on display and all of them were very loud.

I might also be very sensitive to the noise. I just spent a lot of time/effort/money into silencing my computers so much that I can't even tell they are on. In comparison, to me, the H31 sounds like having several cheap 80mm case fans blaring at full 12V speed.

The good thing is that the noise signature is very low pitched and does blend into the background as well as could be expected. If it had any whine or high pitched signature to it, it would be a big problem.

Normal mode is econo, Bright mode will shorten the bulb life and turn the fan on louder.

Are you sitting close to the projector? Usually they get ceiling mounted to get the wires out of the way. It's way quiet comparred to many other budget based machines. My first PJ the NEC LT150 was a jet plane comming in for a landing (38db). Many built hush boxes for it, it you're very sensitive to sound you could research Hush boxes.

Pretty nice blacks and colors don't you think?

Maybe someone here can help me, I am using the h31 and it is hooked up to my computer and i am using the 800 x 600 resolution, which gives me a 4:3 aspect ration but the projector is native resolution is 854 x 480 16:9 aspect ratio. I try to add the resolution in the display properties and it says the custom resolution is invalid. I have also tryed using powerstrip and i didnt see the 854 x 480 as a selectable resolution. Other then this problem im having , the projector is very good. Great picture quality and i dont notice the fan noice to be a problem at all.

Any help would be greatly appreiated and thanks guitarman
for your review on the h31, i bought this partially based on your review.

me2003, you'll have to use powerstrip, you just have to create your own res. go to
display profiles
---configure

then click on
---advanced timing options

then click on
----custom resolutions

then on the right side is the new resolution, and on the top right change that resolution and once you are done there click add new resolution

it will probably say monitor wont accept, but just restart the computer and then select your new resolution that you made, that should work... i'll be doing this on monday once my h31 gets here, and if you still cant get it then... i'll be able to help you more :D
good luck

Well I finally placed an order for the Optoma H31. Like some, it was up between this projector and the Infocus. The main reason the Infocus was so tempting was because so many people had tried the player, and you knew what you were getting into. The Optoma, being a new projector, did not have the same market penetration, so I did not have the same confidence in the unit.

Ultimately I took the gamble and went with the Optoma. I will post a review as soon as I can. I did a comparison between the Infocus and the Toshiba 200, and found I liked the Toshiba just a tad more, but not 300 bucks more. My current player is an older Epson PowerLite, so that will be my reference. I will get a HUGE jump in contrast and black levels, and actually a jump in resolution as my current player is 800X600.


I can't wait to get this puppy.

I know why you guys are buying, it's nice to be different. :)

You'll have to love the citrus type colors you'll get plus the blacks. Try any colorful movie or any LOTRs for black details. No more straining in dark scenes.

You're probably finding all the features in the menus, it's loaded with goodies. Try 1.66 for any OTA 4.3 material or just 4.3 material. If you have white junk on the top from a TV station hit "Edge Mask". Then if you have a adjustable screen you could try the shift memory for 2.35 movies and delete the bars. If you have a fixed screen you could rig up a bottom or top mask for which ever way you want to move the image for the effect.

There's so many 2.35 movies and the shift effect is the feature I like the best. You'll be surprised how wide the image looks without the bars. Plus a better perceived contrast.

foxdvd,

I don't think that there should be a noticeable jump in resolution between an svga pj and the H31, as the widescreen resolutions of both are about the same. Guitarman, what do you think?

Between the H30 and H31 res difference is marginal and hard to notice. You can get a 1.1 pixel match with the H31 in native aspect. Plus a more contrasty image from the Dark chip.

Can someone post a picture of the rear of the unit? I havent been able to find one.

Originally posted by [H]RedDog
Can someone post a picture of the rear of the unit? I havent been able to find one.
There are some good ones on page 8 here: http://www.optomahometheater.com/documents/H31_En.pdf

Cheers!

First post on this site! A recent transplant from audio asylum.

I just picked up my H31 today. I didn't really compare it to anything else, so I'm afraid I won't be much help there, but I have a good relationship with the local audio dealer and the picture/price was right.

Right now I'm just shooting it at my wall, which still looks amazing, trying to figure out what size screen to get. After 3 days I made it through this entire thread, but still have a few questions:

1) Are all signals converted to 480p, or just component and DVI? I only have an s-video out and am wondering if a new dvd player is required.

2) This thing is pretty bright. Especially in an all white room at night. Since this is not a dedicated media room, dark colors and curtains are out. Would a grey screen help with this, or will the dark border on any screen be enough?

Thank you in advance for any assistance.

Can anyone tell me what the best settings are for this pj? I have only had it for 3 days but out of the box it's unbelievable. I wanted to know color settings, contrast, gamma etc. It's my first projector so sorry for questions that may sound dumb. I'm using 4:3 image if that matters. Thanks.

If it pleases you now, do not be so quick to change settings. I still use factory settings on my Infocus 4805 after 2 weeks. Make small changes and watch a DVD or 2. Go back to factory settings; see what you think....and so on. And do not be all that worried about changing settings; just enjoy the movie or HD content. Of course, you can buy test DVDs that will assist you. They never did anything for me but, for many, they are a big thing.

Kala98,
Pick a screen using the two times back viewing distance rule. Like if you can view back 15' a 106"diagonal/92"wide screen would work. Gray would be ok but you'll need a fixed screen, if you're going with a low priced non-tensioned pull down model you're limited to Mat White or High Power. The other materials will show some waves with video.

elc42,
Start out with the THX-optimizer you find in many DVD's Star Wars, Nemo, many more. Use it to set the blacks & whites.

On the PJ in the Picture menu use Cinema and Gamma 2, in the Image menu choose color temp 1 to start, but its best the toggle the color temps while viewing the shades of gray steps you find in the THX pattern. Move the temp to the one which makes the shades of gray look gray.

I appreciate the help. Must admit I've never heard of a THX-optimizer but I'll figure it out. Thank you again.

Well, I have been using an H31 for a few weeks now and there is one thing I have to point out...


I notice that the machine does not do well with 1:1 pixel mapping (via DVI-D)... 854x480 or 848x480.

Tearing results when using these resolutions, no matter the settings... This is using an HTPC - doesn't matter if it's Nvidia or ATI...

The only resolutions that seem to work correctly are very standard ones such as EDTV/HDTV .... For instance, 720x480 (480p) seems to work perfectly and looks great....

I think this was pointed out in an earlier post in this thread, but I just wanted to send my confirmation... In the earlier post, someone tried it with a Momitsu player I think (??) and they got the same result as I did with My HTPC.

Are we the only ones that tested this???

Thank you for the screen advice. The projector lens is about 11' away from the wall, which is as far as it can go back, and on the smallest setting we're still not quite 2x away (80" screen) although it's only off by a hair. This does seem to be the best picture. The screen will be a fixed wall, so any material will work. If the grey will cut down on some of the 'glow' in the room, then I will try this first.

Thanks again for the help.

Glow in the room, it's a very bright little PJ with Gray and your setup you'll be fine.

Re the DVi players I used a could for 1.1 and just set the player to 480p, projector at native aspect. No overscan and the image lookd excellent with now problemo's.

Yeah but when you set player to 480p doesn't it output 720x480... I know any DVD player I use at 480p puts in 720x480 into any projector I use...


The DVD players aren't really putting out 854x480 are they?? It should be 720x480.. When the projector syncs up with your 480p DVI player... does it say 720x480???

Try a player like the Bravo that will do 854X480 and see. Basically the image will look great with zero overscan whether you use 480p or 854X480..

Hey Guitarman, i should be getting my h31 today, and how should i hook up my dvd player and my pc?
both have dvi, and my dvd player(Samsung 841) also has component, it would be nice to have both hooked up to dvi, but i dont think i will buy a dvi switch since they are very expensive for a switch, i'll be sure to try the dvd player with both dvi and component to see how they look

another thing i could do is switch the DVIs to vga(DVI-VGA adapter) and have a switch for that, but wouldnt that degrade the picture in the end? would my best bet be have my pc hooked up through DVI and have my dvd player hooked up through component? and just wait for the DVI switches to go down? thanks

Arty

Originally posted by nrezaie
The DVD players aren't really putting out 854x480 are they?? It should be 720x480.. When the projector syncs up with your 480p DVI player... does it say 720x480???

The DVD players are putting out 720x480. The 854x480 comes from restoring to a 16:9 aspect. When you tell the DVD player you have a 16:9 display it leaves the content untouched and passes it to the projector (at 720x480) which then scales to 854x480.

With anamorphic DVD's, they store the content in a 720x480 frame in a non-correct aspect, so that this stretching restores to proper aspect. This gives you the benefit of being able to use more of the v-pixels in a DVD source to hold real information.

4:3 content on the DVD also uses the 720x480 frame, but is stored at proper aspect. The projector then must letterbox it or it gets stretched to 845x480 and distorts the aspect.

With respect to 480i/p, they both still use the same 720x480 frame, they just send the information to the display device differently. (And in the case of the 480p, the deinterlacing gets done on the playing device rather then the display device.)

In the case of a player like the bravo, or a HTPC, the aspect scaling is done on that device rather then the projector, and the feed can be 854x480, or something very close with timings that create 1:1 by pillar-boxing a few pixels on the sides.

--Eric

Arty,

I'm not Guitarman but I think you're on the right track in suggesting that your best route is to go DVI HTPC and component DVD player. You have so much more potential with the computer if you're willing to take the time to work at it.

That's what I would do based on my limited experience comparing VGA output from my computer versus component output from the DVD player. The difference is astounding! DVI I realize is a different animal but I still think that an HTPC will allow you to tweak the image to a point rivaling an expensive DVDO iSCAN HD + unit.

Wayne

Originally posted by Arty13
Hey Guitarman, i should be getting my h31 today, and how should i hook up my dvd player and my pc?
both have dvi, and my dvd player(Samsung 841) also has component, it would be nice to have both hooked up to dvi, but i dont think i will buy a dvi switch since they are very expensive for a switch, i'll be sure to try the dvd player with both dvi and component to see how they look

another thing i could do is switch the DVIs to vga(DVI-VGA adapter) and have a switch for that, but wouldnt that degrade the picture in the end? would my best bet be have my pc hooked up through DVI and have my dvd player hooked up through component? and just wait for the DVI switches to go down? thanks

Arty

Assuming you're using the DVD player for movies and the computer for online or games.

I'd try DVI for DVD and VGA for computer. Think I've read the 841 isn't too great using it's component feed.

Hi,

Opened the box on my new H31 and hooked it up with the dvi-vga adapter for a quick test run and it appears it's DOA. At first it wouldn't even display the startup screen. It would just temp fail after 1 minute. I reseated the lamp module and now I get the startup screen and it still temp fails after about a minute. Not too impressed with Optoma build quality so far. Seems the rumours are true. BTW, mine came without the HDMI-DVI adapter. Is that because it's the Canadian version or what?

Macros

Got mine today. Have spent about 4 hours playing around with it, trying to get my screen set up right, adjusting the contrast and so forth.

Initial reaction...HOLLY SH#$@....

I understand that I viewed the Infocus 4805 and Toshiba in a different environment, but one thing I notice is I am able to get a sharper image with this projector then I was with the other two players. Colors are vibrant and......well.....I am very happy.

A few points, and questions.

First which temp level is close to 6500??


The biggest problem I had was while my wife and I were taking down the Draper M2500, she said

"Hey! It looks great on the wall...you spend $$$$ for a screen, and did not even need it!!!!" I scrambled to show her the difference when the lights were out and breathed a BIG sigh when she said "OH YEAH! BIG DIFFERENCE!"

I am using this with a 92" M2500, and the picture is fantastic. Smooth image, no hotspotting...not even a little. From my viewing distance (2x) no SDE, and no drop in brightness from sitting down or moving side to side. Blacks are great, and it is like looking at a 92 inch plasma.

Once again, I did not have the Infocus 4805 or the Toshiba Mt200 in my home, but the Optoma in my home is a better projector then those two projectors at the store. Not a LOT better, but I would have paid at least 200 bucks more for it...I will note that the store actually had a better light controlled environment then my house, but I am projecting on a high gain screen, which could explain some of the difference.

Like I said above though, the Optoma seems more sharp without seeming to sharp...if that makes any sense.

In the end...BUY IT! The price is right...

I ordered mine this weekend. It will be here wed. I'm replacing an X1. I'll make sure and post the diffrence I see between the two.

Very interesting RedDog.

I own the X1 as well and will be quite curious as to how the two compare.

I got my H-31 last Thursday and got to play with it over the weekend. First off the black levels are a lot better than the H-30 right out of the box. Its a significant difference. I could see it in the Panasonic RP-91 startup Logo alone. Colors are stunning.

The user options for aspect ratio changes and the ability to shift image are a benefit worth an upgrade path from the H-30 as far as I am concerned. Throw distance is reduced and I also find this an added bennie.

The H-31 is quieter than its cousin. Although I never griped about the level of sound coming from my H-30 I can discern that the H-31 is quieter.
At this point I have to say that the H-30 I have does have a little "buzz" in it. I read a lot of posts in the miles long H-30 thread about this last year but was never particularly bothered by it. I am sure if I had to revert to the H-30 tonight to watch a DVD the nosie level would seem much more apparent to me.

Occasionally my H-30 would take two tries to spool up and run. The H-31 seems to have a slightly longer spool up time when I press the power button on the remote but it seems like an improvement. Nice and quiet.

Ken how loud is the fan when you turn on the high altitude mode? I am hoping to be able to run it in that mode to maybe get some extra life out of the bulb.

I have not tried that as yet. My H-30 that I will have to unload has 300 hours on the bulb run in econo mode. I will turn it up (H-31) to high altitude next time I use it to check this out.

My projector is quiet. My Gateway computer is MUCH louder.

Well I've had the experience of owning both the H31 and 4805 at the same time and I've decided to keep the H31. The 4805 goes back tonite. I originally picked it up about 3 weeks ago and was happy with it. However, I found the H31 for a great price and couldnt resist, especially with the higher contrast ratio and and the zoom/aspect modes that Tom talked about. I've had the h31 for about a week.

I'm using a generic gray screen that came with the 4805. My DaLite high power will be arriving tomorrow so I wont be able to test these units with that screen.
The DVD player I'm using is the Norcent DP501. I've also used the XBox dvd player (DGenX). Both were connected with standard component cables.

Some of the DVDs I used to compare were: Spiderman 1 and 2 superbit, Gladiator, T2 Extreme, Underworld, 5th Element Superbit, LOTR EE Trilogy, Star Wars EP1

Keep in mind I'm a home theater n00b so these are my impressions based on having a first projector.

Heres the breakdown:
The H31 was tweaked (just basics) with Avia, the 4805 was tweaked using the THX tuner (I didn't get the avia disc until recently)

PQ
- The H31 hands down. Out of the box, I think the 4805 does look very good. The settings out of the factory seem right on. After spending about 15 minutes with Avia, the H31 wins. If I tuned the 4805 with Avia, the difference would not have been much to compare to the picture of the h31. The colors are incredibly vivid and bright. The shadow detail/blacks is very nice as well. After watching the H31 and going back to the 4805, colors look washed out and the rich blacks just weren't there.
- I have recessed lighting in my viewing room and they seem to make the 4805 wash out more compared to the H31. The H31 is bright enough to watch with some ambient lighting in the room.

Features
- The aspect ratio/zooms on the H31 are very nice. The picture is much bigger and I end up using more screen real estate with it. This makes a huge difference in movies and TV but especially games. Try Burnout 3.
- I prefer the menus on the 4805. They seem laid out more logically and thus easier to use.
- The source lock on the H31 (now turned off) can get annoying, especially when the source switches modes. You get the signal lost flashing message.
- The H31 comes with a nice carrying case (think laptop)
- The throw distance on the H31 allows me to project a larger picture in my viewing room for equal distance.

Noise
- The H31 wins this one. I set the projectors on a table next to my couch at about ear height. The 4805 is much louder compared to the H31.

Heat
- The 4805 seems to disperse heat better and that may be why its louder. It seems to have an extra fan near the front of the unit. The H31 really cranks out the heat though. The right side of the unit gets very hot during usage whereas the 4805 is just mildly warm.

It seems like bulb longevity and heat would be the only issues with the H31. The 4805 also seems much easier to use out of the box and the menus are more logical. As others have said, I dont think you can beat either of these projectors for the price. My friends that have come over to watch movies have been totally blown away. I'm glad I found my way into this forum. It saved me about $1500 over the Samsung DLP I wanted to buy. Unfortunately, I have the upgrade bug and my receivers and speakers are due for an upgrade now.

This is exactly why I went with the h31. It seems the only people saying the 4805 and h31 look pretty much the same are the ones who havent seen both. Everyone who has seen both say the h31 throws the better picture. To me thats what matters most. On top of that you got all those options. I'm lookin forward to messing around with those.

I saw something interesting last night, that maybe folks here could help me with. We watched 'Ray' on DVD, which is 1:85 anamorphic. Whatever I did, the picture filled the entire 16x9 screen. Other disks of the same ratio show the full image with black bars on the top and bottom. I even tried this without changing the settings. Is the disk not labeled correctly? Am I missing something? There did not appear to be any distortion of the picture. Just curious as to why this might be.

Everything's working fine. You aren't supposed to see bars on a 1.85:1 movie. You will see them on 2.35:1 or 2.40:1 though.

Perhaps those other movies were really 2.35:1 after all and that's why you were seeing the bars.

Thanks for the comparison...I'm sure we'll hear from some 4805 owners..lol. Any chance you can list your tweaks for the H31?

I'm happy as a clam with the H31.

Tks,

tom

Originally posted by tomgarz
Thanks for the comparison...I'm sure we'll hear from some 4805 owners..lol. Any chance you can list your tweaks for the H31?

I'm happy as a clam with the H31.

Tks,

tom

I'm a 4805 owner and ......... I'm glad you guys are happy with your purchases:D ! Sounds like a terrific machine.

And FWIW, I recommended BOTH the 4805 and H31 to my father who is debating btw the two and told him to check out this thread. He has seen my 4805 and loves it but I also wanted him to know there are other options like the H31 out there.

How's HD on it?

You're correct, I mistakenly compared to a 2:35 disk. The screen examples on the Carada page also helped clear up my confusion on aspect ratios. Since 1:85:1 is 'slightly wider' than 16x9, is information lost on the edges, or is there a squeeze going on?

Thanks for the help.

I think that the difference between 1.78:1 and 1.85:1 is so minuscule that the bars are taken up in the overscan measurements. I don't quite understand it all but I'm sure glad that at those ratios the bars aren't a problem.

Well, I sold my Benq 6100 last Sunday, and need to save up a few more bills before I can buy the H31. Hopefully that will happen in the next couple of weeks, and I can join you new H31 owners. What an exciting time!!

Originally posted by [H]RedDog
Ken how loud is the fan when you turn on the high altitude mode? I am hoping to be able to run it in that mode to maybe get some extra life out of the bulb.


The fan in Brite mode is not much louder...but the jump in brightness is not enough to put up with the louder fan. The High Altitude mode is LOUD. Much to loud to enjoy a movie for me. Also, when you turn it on, then off again, it stays on for a while, and slowly slows down. It scared me at first when the fan did not slow down after I switched it back to normal.

HD looks excellent on the H31, very 3D with clean scaling. Glad to hear from some new owners. It was awfully lonely early on. You're right it has some serious color qualities which are more intesified with the dark blacks. Nice machine.

Tom,

Would it be a problem to set the pj dowm on a coffee table in front of me? My 6100 had a long throw, and I'm only looking to get about an 84" diagonal image. Any wider than that, and the image will spill onto my Martin Logan front speakers, which have been placed very carefully for sound. That means that the pj has to move from behind my couch to being in front, I think. I'm renting, so I can't do a ceiling mount. Is there light spill out of the back that would be bothersome?

No light at the back, coffee table should be ok it's a pretty quiet projector. Plus you'll be cranking those ML's. :)

Its here Its here! UPS got it here in one peice! No boot prints on the box or anything. I've got a couple hours yet before I can realy dig into it though. Quick question. Where are the filters? I didnt see anywhere or anything in the book about cleaning filters.

They don't need filters, the H30 and 31 are pretty well sealed up. There's even a glass shield between the bulb and the color wheel. All you need to do is vacuum the vents every couple of months, just to keep it clean a bit.

i really anxious to hear from the two guys who upgraded from an X1 to the H31, please post when you can!

hey question for you guys

is it possible to ceiling mount the h31 12' from a 104" diag screen or would i be stuck with 92"?

i ran the calc on proj cent, but it looks like i'd really be cutting it close

I have mine on the table in front of me, about 2 feet from me, and even in quiet parts of the movie, I only hear it if I try to hear it.

Finally got my H31 yesterday, Tuesday 15, love it so far, been like 2 and a half weeks without a pj (had H30), i forgot what i was missing, the colors are superb, have dvi through my pc, much clearer, and very bright on the pc, still need to make a few tweaks here and there,
threw in AVP for the first movie, just to see the blacks and colors with the graphics within the movie, IT WAS GREAT, and then today watched Superman II it had really good color and blacks, all i have to say, if you want a widescreen pj, and you have a budget, the H31 is the answer,
I'm afraid to hook my dvd player up via DVI (currently Component) because i know it will look even better, but dont want anything less than vga with the pc, and it would be too much of a hassle to keep switching it... guess i gotta wait for a dvi switch
been fooling around with the new screen settings, 16x9 and 4x3 settings with letterbox, all i can say awsome, my dvd player has ez view, which is pretty much the same, but i bet all the people out there that havnt had it before is just thrilled about it, i know Tom says he loves it... but anyway, there is soo much i have to catch up on, movie wise, so enjoy

Arty

Someone said it above, but if you have source lock on, and you turn off your dvd player, this really stupid flash happens telling you it lost signal...on and off...it really freaks you out the first time it happens.


I am very happy with this projector. When using it with my M2500, I watched Saving Private Ryan today, with the room brite enough to read in, and it looked fantastic. I was going to put in a door to the front-room so it would be dark even during the day, but it will not be needed.

Originally posted by guitarman
HD looks excellent on the H31, very 3D with clean scaling. Glad to hear from some new owners. It was awfully lonely early on. You're right it has some serious color qualities which are more intesified with the dark blacks. Nice machine.

Hey Tom, I bought this projector mainly because of the reviews and screenshots you posted, so thanks for that info. I setup my 106" DaLite High Power last night and was even more impressed by the combo of the picture size and color. SDE is more apparent with zoom (if I view from close up) but thats to be expected. Once I get a chance, I'll recalibrate with Avia. I've told myself this is as good as the picture is going to get though. In the last month I've gone from 4805 on a light blue wall to 4805 on a grey screen to h31 on a grey screen to h31 on the DaLite.

TomGarz, I could post my settings but the way your picture looks is going to be dependent largely on the ambient light in your room, screen material and wall/ceiling color. Even for an identical product, similar settings will give different results. I'm glad other H31 owners are enjoying their units. Paying for a DVD makes much more sense when you arent watching it on a tiny 32" tv. :D

Tom/guitarman or other H31 owners,
I personally own the 4805, so of course, I am partial to it. My father is pretty close to buying either the 4805 or H31. I don't want to make the decision for him, however, because I would probably choose a 4805.

I understand that both use the Dark Chip 2. And I know the 4805 has the FLI2310 built-in, which is a huge plus. So I wanted to ask you guys, in your opinion, why buy the H31 instead of the 4805 besides set-up factors (ie throw distance)?

I've read the posts and, for some reason, the H31 has not really caught on yet. Too new I guess but everyone who gets one seems to be thrilled by it.
Any input would be greatly appreciated. Enjoy your new toys!!

thenumber8
thanks for the reply...kinda funny when you think about it, a 32"tv was considered large not that many years ago and 36" was huge.

therealgeno
I think the reason It appears that the H31 hasn't caught on is that it's only been shipping for 3 or 4 weeks. Most of us that got ours a few weeks ago were running a little blind because so few were out there. By the looks of the post here more people are getting them and all appear very happy, me included. The next few weeks we should be seeing a lot more personal opions on the H31(all positive I hope :D )

tomgarz

Hi-

Please help me out again...
If I remember correctly, the color wheel on the 4805 has a 6-seg. r/g/b/r/g/b and the H31 has a 6-seg. with a clear segment. The concensus is you are trading contrast for color. If that is true, which one of these, in theory and in practice will better handle ambient light?

-------- Also -----

I am at about 5500 ft. above sea level, which I believe is considered high-altitude. It is right to assume I would need to use the louder, high-altitude fan? Would the fans then be the same on the H31 and 4805 (which does not have a high-altitude mode)?

-------- Also -----

Does the fan on the H31 run until you do a hard, power-off or does it run at low speed like the 4805? Do both units handle dust the same way?

Thanks,

There's no white segment on the H31's colorwheel. Contrast and brightness is high and it can handle ambient light. People most every time will probably prefer the colors on the H31 over other models.

Keep those letters and cards coming. :)

Originally posted by Tweakophyte
Hi-

-------- Also -----

I am at about 5500 ft. above sea level, which I believe is considered high-altitude. It is right to assume I would need to use the louder, high-altitude fan? Would the fans then be the same on the H31 and 4805 (which does not have a high-altitude mode)?


-------- Also -----

Does the fan on the H31 run until you do a hard, power-off or does it run at low speed like the 4805? Do both units handle dust the same way?

Thanks,

I've never heard of an "high-altitude" fan on the H30, H31 or any projector for that matter. There are 2 fan modes on the H30/H31's, 'Normal' and 'Econo'. Normal runs the fan faster and the lamp a little brighter, 'Econo' runs the lamps slower (quieter) and the lamp a little dimmer. Pretty much everyone runs 'Econo' in a home theater. Contrast is a little better, projector is quieter and the lamp is suppose to last longer.

Normal (brighter) mode is better for presentation office style work or if your gonna watch something with ambient lights on, like a sporting event.

Now, I think that high-altitudes do affect cooling temps in things like cars and probably projectors. There's less air to move, and things (I think) can run a little hotter. So, you might have something there about running a projector in the normal mode instead of econo. But, AFAIK, I don't think the different fan modes were specifically for different altitudes. You may want to call Optoma/infocus and ask a smart tech there about your altitude cooling issues.

My H30 (which I assume shuts down the same as the H31) pwrs down by 1st turning the lamp off (you hit the pwr button on the remote 2x), and the fan stays on for about 3 minutes at the normal speed, then the unit automatically pwrs itself off after the pre-set factory cool down time has ended (about 3 minutes). But, there is a green light on the projector that will continue to flash 'green' on the H30 if still plugged in. This is called 'stand by mode'. You can turn the projector back on with the remote
when in the mode.

I actually have my H30 plugged into a pwr strip and after it shuts down, I turn the pwr strip off. I do this because the pwr supply in the H30 stays a little warm when plugged in and there were some possible strange early H30 cases in which the projector turned itself 'On' in the middle of the night. Probably a cat/dog stepping on the remote, but that was never ruled out. Never happened to me, but I mostly turn the pwr strip off after the pwr down. That's just me.

Fleaman

Originally posted by fleaman
I've never heard of an "high-altitude" fan on the H30, H31 or any projector for that matter. There are 2 fan modes on the H30/H31's, 'Normal' and 'Econo'. Normal runs the fan faster and the lamp a little brighter, 'Econo' runs the lamps slower (quieter) and the lamp a little dimmer.

Fleaman

I don't know about the H30, but on my H31 there is a setting for high-altitude "ON-Off" and a bright mode "ON-OFF" I've tried the the bright mode on and didn't notice any increase in sound. I haven't tried the altitude setting.

tomgarz

Originally posted by therealgeno
Tom/guitarman or other H31 owners,
I personally own the 4805, so of course, I am partial to it. My father is pretty close to buying either the 4805 or H31. I don't want to make the decision for him, however, because I would probably choose a 4805.

I understand that both use the Dark Chip 2. And I know the 4805 has the FLI2310 built-in, which is a huge plus. So I wanted to ask you guys, in your opinion, why buy the H31 instead of the 4805 besides set-up factors (ie throw distance)?

I've read the posts and, for some reason, the H31 has not really caught on yet. Too new I guess but everyone who gets one seems to be thrilled by it.
Any input would be greatly appreciated. Enjoy your new toys!!


Well, I actually just returned the the H31 and was not happy with it. It could not do 854x480 through DVI from HTPC... Tested ATI Radeon 9100, Nvidia Geforce 6800 GT, and Nvidia Geforce 6600 GT video cards. One of them was custom built by me and one of them was a Dell PC. Tearing resulted in any system setup I used. 480p, 720p, 1080i all worked perfectly though.... I ALMOST just settled with the projector at 720x480p since everything looked great from PC, especially DVDS, but I felt that sacrifices should not be made at this price... and also Windows looked TOO HUGE.. The resolution is just too low... So I ended up buying a PLV-Z3, which I am also scared of since it is an LCD projector, and I have just about hated the blacks and detail and VB of every single LCD projector I have owned.

I received my projector shipped DIRECT from Optoma and am very confident nothing was defective with it....

Everything else was just outstanding... HDTV seemed to look very nice, but I felt the 4805 handled it better. (I also used to own a 4805 and returned it due to several issues .. Infocus stuff ALWAYS gives me problems for some reason)...

The Optoma blacks are better than 4805 though... DVDs at 480p on the Optoma were amazing... Looked very good... But ONLY at 480p

I cannot at all recommend this projector if you are using an HTPC... unless something is fixed with 1:1 pixel mapping from Nvidia/ATI HTPC. The tearing is unacceptable and NO one would be able to stand it or live with it... It is a very sharp line that scrolls up the screen during certain motions...

I also like very much how the projector looks and how solid built it feels.. The 4805 feels like a flimsy, bulky peice of crap compared to the Optoma. I have always hated the contruction and appearance of the X1-4800 series..


There was also another problem. That is with the XBOX.. I have tried 2 different XBOXs with 2 different component video connections... One of them using the Microsoft HI DEF box and the other a Monster Game Link 400 component connection... Didn't matter the combination of XBOX/Cable.. there was very slight "banding" on games at 480p... It almost looked like VB on an LCD projector.... The Sharp Z200 also showed this, but MUCH MUCH worse... The 4805 did not show it, but had slight noise lines issues that could sorta be tweaked out with the phase/clock controls....


An ALMOST perfect machine, but unfortunately something so unexpected and minor KILLED the entire thing... Very upset about it....

Well I've had some time to spend with the h31. Now I got the X1 this time last year. After the first 6 months I owned it I had seen ALL of the bugs. Rainbows, Poor black levels, Bad contrast, Light spill from the front grill that lit up the room, and dim picture. Now I was able to tune for one bug like the dim picture for example by running video mode cranking the color settings to the 80's and 90's and running the cool color temp. This push everything to blue. I could fix one bug but at the cost of another. So I'll go over the bugs first.


First off rainbows. They are very rare on the H31. If you look for them you can see them but only on certain things. If you dont go out of your way to look for them they pretty much cant be seen. One bug down. Great on to the next one.


Black levels. I use a grey screen. Now even the X1 had a pretty good black color. There was still a glow to the screen but it wasnt too bad. Once I did the grey screen blacks only bugged me on certin movies. Black levels on the H31 on a grey screen are damn close to as dark as my 36 inch tube. Very close. There is a slight glow on an all black screen but its very dark and black in color. No tint to it al all. I did put up white next to the grey screen and would still recommend the grey. As good as the blacks are the grey realy puts them clost to tube levels. So one more bug down.

Now we get into the ones that I had the most problems with.

Contrast. The H31 has a picutre so deep it has to be seen. This one is realy hard to decribe just how much this one thing helps the picutre. There is so much more detail in every thing. Even bright things like the opening for ice age shows fine detail I've never seen before. All I can say is I see no need for any more contrast. You can actualy adjust the contrast too high on this thing. Somthing not possible with the X1.


Brightness. The H31 is not as bright as I though it would be. However its gotta be at least twice as bright as I ever got the X1 to look. If you run your X1 warm in film mode and colors set to the 50 range the H31 is about three times as bright. Very nice. Like guitarman said the brightness is about perfect.



And finaly lightspill. From what I read on here I was afrain the H31 was going to have as much as the X1. There is almost none compaired to the X1. Theres a little but not much.

So every bug. Every singe one has been not just made a little better but been completely fixed. When I started putting in movies I put in the worst looking ones I had. One of the worst and hardest to watch on the X1 is Interview with a vampire. Its a poor transfer and very black black levels and seemed very very dim on the X1. The H31 Realy wowed me with this one. It was like watching a new transfer. Black were black and whites were very bright. Also Ed wood. Black and white is outstanding. Its soo deep its like looking at a black and white photo.

I could go on and on but I'll finish up now. After a seening the H31 in action the X1 look like a toy. The picutre quality is very very poor. There realy is no competition. The H31 outclasses it in every aspect. If your on the fence about wether its worth upgrading now or waiting. Get off the fence and order. Its so worth it. The H31 feels high end. I was able to see my X1 and the upgrade cost me about 400 bucks. Even if I had to pay the full amount it would have been worth it. I can finaly watch movies and just watch without having to try to look through a bunch of flaws. The H31 throws the best looking picuter I have seen. Its easy to see why everyone who has seen one is so enthusiastic about it. Any X1 owners that have questions feel free to ask.

nrezaie,
That's too bad about the HTPC/xbox and signal tearing. I could get a clean picture with the Bravo set to 854X480 or 480p. I would use the native aspect and put up an Avia over scan pattern which showed zero overscan. A 100IRE pattern would show all the pixels clean. Overall a very nice image.

Maybe you should have called the tech area. There may have been something you could do in the sercive area with the color wheel index (CWI) for your setup.
Maybe next time. :)

Originally posted by billymac
hey question for you guys

is it possible to ceiling mount the h31 12' from a 104" diag screen or would i be stuck with 92"?

i ran the calc on proj cent, but it looks like i'd really be cutting it close

Hey, can anybody help me with this? I really need to try and find out how close I can come to this? I don't need anything fancy, just the biggest manual pull-down screen i can get that will fit from 12' back. Projector Central and Optom's calculators don't match up.

Also, what is the offset on the image? Will I need an arm when mouting frmo an 8' celing? I don't care how high my screen hangs really. Hopefully there's some decent offset though.

I'm really concerned about nerezaie's comments. Can someone speak to that? That could be a dealbreaker for me. I can't believe you coulnd't tweak your htpc to show a widescreen image perfectly on this thing. Did you try powerstrip?

Thanks for the input, please advise-

two more questions:

will this thing run hd through the vga port?

is it really that much brighter than the X1? i know marketing specs are fluff 99% of the time, but the X1 was rated at 1100 (must be in presentation maybe) and this is only 850...that must concern a lot of people...

Billy, If you're getting a manual pull down better go with mat white or high power. About the size width, my projector lens is near 14' back from a 92" widescreen and I'm near max zoom. Two feet closer I don't think I could fill that width.

The offset for me is about 12", I use a chief mount which can mount very flush but they're costly. Some are using the Panvise mount which is cheap and has pivots you can lock. You may be able to use one and angle the arm back away from the stud to get it pretty flush.

wow, 14' back and 92" at max zoom?

bummer, that may not work for me then, anything less than 92" is a deal-breaker for me... :(

billymac

The X1 is a home/office projector - and is of course rated in its presentation mode.

Film mode is 400 lumens.

Combine that with most people having had the X1 for a while - their lamps are significantly drained (not to mention color wheel deposits mentioned on the forum).

So a subjective 2-3x brighter is quite realistic. 2x is the difference between old and new lamp.

I would expect the H31 to be less than spec properly calibrated based on the H30 being rated at a higher color temp rather than D65.

This is very common with many manufacturers and it is not unusual to see a 40% drop from marketed or more on the numbers. If you are buying projectors based on marketing numbers, you should pay with monopoly money!

The exception is Infocus ScreenPlay - everything in the current lineup is marketed using film mode calibrations.

Originally posted by guitarman
nrezaie,
That's too bad about the HTPC/xbox and signal tearing.
After reading for about 3 hours last night about Powerstrip timings, Codecs and DVD player apps and the like in the HTPC forum- I would be inclined to think the HTPC tearing could have been fixed with Powerstrip timings or something to that effect. It made my head hurt to read all the possibilities for image enhancement which can quickly turn to image degradation. :) But then I be a noob in this area.

Cheers!

Originally posted by [H]RedDog
Well I've had some time to spend with the h31. Now I got the X1 this time last year. After the first 6 months I owned it I had seen ALL of the bugs. Rainbows, Poor black ...

thanks for that, that's good to hear

one question for you, had you had your X1 ceiling mounted?

if so how, and were you able to convert your existing mount? or did you start over?

heck this thing doesn't have a vga port on the back, does anybody know if i could convert vga to component OR to dvi and have it accept hd and htpc signals?

billymac

No mine in on a small table. The H31 is smaller than the X1 so I'm sure you would have to mod the mount. It shouldnt be that hard though. I actualy had a hard time getting it lined up with the screen. The X1 was alot easier for some reason.

It comes with an adaptor to hook up vga through the dvi port.

Check out the online manual. I know you can send component thru the DVI connector. Wait a minute I think it comes with a VGA to component adaptor, pretty sure you're ok. I'll check the accessories tonight.

Tom,

Still no numbers of Contrast Ratio? :D

Please, we are impatient, the MT200 is 1.700 On/Off and 710:1 ANSI. It´s the H31 better? I´ll buy the best one. :)

Nacho.

Originally posted by nrezaie
Well, I actually just returned the the H31 and was not happy with it. It could not do 854x480 through DVI from HTPC... Tested ATI Radeon 9100, Nvidia Geforce 6800 GT, and Nvidia Geforce 6600 GT video cards. One of them was custom built by me and one of them was a Dell PC. Tearing resulted in any system setup I used. 480p, 720p, 1080i all worked perfectly though.... I ALMOST just settled with the projector at 720x480p since everything looked great from PC, especially DVDS, but I felt that sacrifices should not be made at this price... and also Windows looked TOO HUGE.. The resolution is just too low... So I ended up buying a PLV-Z3, which I am also scared of since it is an LCD projector, and I have just about hated the blacks and detail and VB of every single LCD projector I have owned.

I received my projector shipped DIRECT from Optoma and am very confident nothing was defective with it....

Everything else was just outstanding... HDTV seemed to look very nice, but I felt the 4805 handled it better. (I also used to own a 4805 and returned it due to several issues .. Infocus stuff ALWAYS gives me problems for some reason)...

The Optoma blacks are better than 4805 though... DVDs at 480p on the Optoma were amazing... Looked very good... But ONLY at 480p

I cannot at all recommend this projector if you are using an HTPC... unless something is fixed with 1:1 pixel mapping from Nvidia/ATI HTPC. The tearing is unacceptable and NO one would be able to stand it or live with it... It is a very sharp line that scrolls up the screen during certain motions...

I also like very much how the projector looks and how solid built it feels.. The 4805 feels like a flimsy, bulky peice of crap compared to the Optoma. I have always hated the contruction and appearance of the X1-4800 series..


There was also another problem. That is with the XBOX.. I have tried 2 different XBOXs with 2 different component video connections... One of them using the Microsoft HI DEF box and the other a Monster Game Link 400 component connection... Didn't matter the combination of XBOX/Cable.. there was very slight "banding" on games at 480p... It almost looked like VB on an LCD projector.... The Sharp Z200 also showed this, but MUCH MUCH worse... The 4805 did not show it, but had slight noise lines issues that could sorta be tweaked out with the phase/clock controls....


An ALMOST perfect machine, but unfortunately something so unexpected and minor KILLED the entire thing... Very upset about it....

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't think you can do 854 x 480 native from most pc video cards. I believe that the resolution has to be a multiple of 8 to be correctly displayed by a pc video card, so 848 x 480 would be as close as you could get it. Forcing it to do 854 x 480 might explain the tearing...

Another AVS Thread related to this (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=4903698&highlight=854+x+480+powerstrip#post4903698)

Originally posted by jedi35
I know this is a long shot, but does anyone have an H31 in the St. Louis, MO area that would care to demo it? I may be selling my Benq 6100 this weekend, and have my sites set on th H31. From the excellent reviews, I'm pretty much ready to buy it without seeing it, but a look wouldn't hurt. I have so many sources that I haven't been able to watch using dvi. Component signals have served me well, but dvi through the H31 has got to look great!!

Hello fellow St. Louisan....

I do not have an H31 but I do have an SP-4805 that you could see. I have a crude, rudimentary set-up right now until my basement gets finished this spring, but if you wanted to see a similar machine in action tryt o contact me via e-mail to set something up....

Good luck on your decision,
Dan
Fenton-area

Originally posted by nachin
Tom,

Still no numbers of Contrast Ratio? :D

Please, we are impatient, the MT200 is 1.700 On/Off and 710:1 ANSI. It´s the H31 better? I´ll buy the best one. :)

Nacho.

Sri, I got the light meter but I'm not up on using it, plus it's hard to find the free night time, plus when the particular projector's in use. Too many projectors so little time. It's ruff I know. :)

Originally posted by guitarman
Sri, I got the light meter but I'm not up on using it, plus it's hard to find the free night time, plus when the particular projector's in use. Too many projectors so little time. It's ruff I know. :)

Lucky man! :D

Nacho

Poor excuse I know, but it's the truth. My wife is using the time to watch the sitcoms, American Idol, House, Nanny 911 lol, OC tonight. I end up crashing out.
I'll try

hey guitarman take a look at the throw distance again too will ya?

optima's site is saying i should be able to do 92" from 12' back

Yes Tom,

I'm with billymac on this one. I have the X1 at 12.5' from a 92" diagonal Hi-Power screen and I just make it with only an inch or so to spare if I use the zoom ring full out.

I'd like to know if I take a chance on this H31 that I won't have to move the screen. I can position the pj closer to the screen but not any further back. I'm at my limit distance wise.

Also, I'm using an HTPC via vga to the X1 on the Hi-Power and the image is outstanding. I can only assume that the H31 would be even better.

Anyone care to venture a guess/educated opinion as to how the H31 would look given my setup?

Wayne

Originally posted by gottahavapj
After reading for about 3 hours last night about Powerstrip timings, Codecs and DVD player apps and the like in the HTPC forum- I would be inclined to think the HTPC tearing could have been fixed with Powerstrip timings or something to that effect. It made my head hurt to read all the possibilities for image enhancement which can quickly turn to image degradation. :) But then I be a noob in this area.

Cheers!

I can assure all of you that the original poster of that information did not have things set-up properly [ at the HTPC end ] ;) . Had he tried 854x480 with the 4805 he would have encountered the same issues .


------- Jason

He needed you Jason, too late though he dumped the PJ.

Guys I let you know tomorrow exactly how far back you can go with a 92" wide.

Is it a 48Hz support issue? DaGamePimps PowerStrip timings are for Radeon/SP4805 at 48Hz.

Thanks guys, I haven't a clue on HTPC.

12' limited users the H31 will not do a 92" wide image at 12'. It will at 12'5". Better shoot for the next size down.

does the h31 have less screen door than the 4805? or the same?

why does the same chip produce 2000:1 in the 4805 and 3000:1 in the h31?

Tom,

I'm assuming that you mean 92" diagonal. I have a 45" x 80" screen which results in a 92" diagonal measurement.

So 12' back won't fill this type of screen or did you mean an actual 92" wide as in height x width?

Wayne

Originally posted by guitarman
Thanks guys, I haven't a clue on HTPC.

12' limited users the H31 will not do a 92" wide image at 12'. It will at 12'5". Better shoot for the next size down.

i measured again last night, and i think i may be right there at 12' 6"

how much room do i need out the back, is 4" okay? this thing is only about 8" deep right?

actually maybe a better way to look at this is, i've got 161 1/2" from the screen to the back wall. if you figure 3" in the back for vent and cables + an overall depth of 8" on the pj that puts me at 12.54' or a little over 12 and 1/2'. is my math right? if so that would work.

That's a 92"wide 106" diagonal screen. The PJ is 8" front to back, 4" for attaching cables is plenty.

Hey Guitarman, what are your settings on the H31, (just curious) and also, what is the best Progressive Res. for the H31? 480P...1080P and how much difference would i notice if i currently have 480P on, with a dif higher res?

also what is the best video enhancement tool out there? still AVIA?
thanks

Arty

Originally posted by guitarman
That's a 92"wide 106" diagonal screen. The PJ is 8" front to back, 4" for attaching cables is plenty.

AAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!

I was talking about 92" diag or 45x80

:)

so you're saying I could eek out a 106"?

hhmmmmm :D

my seating is only about 11.5' back, you think that's okay? or too much sde?

'billy',

That's exactly my distance from couch to screen too. I have the X1 with 800 x 450 16 x 9 resolution and I find SDE or pixellation hardly noticeable on a 92" diagonal screen so this H31 I'm thinking ought to be even better given the extra pixels.

By the way, thanks Tom! It's good to know that the H31 would do a 92" diagonal nicely from 12 1/2 feet.

Wayne

so you've already got the screen then, that's cool, i've been using mine on a 96" diag 4:3

i'm wondering what he'll say about the 106" from 11.5' back, it may be too close

which is fine, as long as i can get a 92" diag i'm happy, but 106 would nice!!! :D

yes, thanks tom for your replies and help

Originally posted by billymac
AAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!

I was talking about 92" diag or 45x80

:)

so you're saying I could eek out a 106"?

hhmmmmm :D

my seating is only about 11.5' back, you think that's okay? or too much sde?
That's another thing you should try to view at 2times the screen width or you'll start to see pixels, especially in white text.

Originally posted by Arty13
Hey Guitarman, what are your settings on the H31, (just curious) and also, what is the best Progressive Res. for the H31? 480P...1080P and how much difference would i notice if i currently have 480P on, with a dif higher res?

also what is the best video enhancement tool out there? still AVIA?
thanks

Arty

Yes Avia, DVI/HDMI player I'd use 480p or take a look at 720p, no 1080i

Originally posted by guitarman
That's another thing you should try to view at 2times the screen width or you'll start to see pixels, especially in white text.

I'm sitting about 11-12 feet back (106 dia) and see no pixels or sde. So far everyone thats sat there love it. I start to see pixels around 6/7 feet which is way to close to sit anyway.

The more I show off this projector the bigger my grin gets cause everyone is blown away buy the picture quality.

tomgarz

can some other h31 owners comment on sreen size and seating distance, i guess i could wait and see, but it would be nice to hear from some of you

106 would be swwweEEEETTT!!!

but 92" would be cool as well

hey guitarman, can you move your couch to 11' from the screen and tell me how it looks :p ;) ;) :p :D

For me I need to be back 14'. My keen eyesite varies also ;) sometimes I can see the SD easier than other times.

billymac,
Projection Calculator Pro (http://www.projectorcentral.com/Optoma-H31-projection-calculator-pro.htm)


peace

Originally posted by SIMJEDI
billymac,
Projection Calculator Pro (http://www.projectorcentral.com/Optoma-H31-projection-calculator-pro.htm)


peace

i know i know :), but that does not match optoma's calculator

Originally posted by billymac
i know i know :), but that does not match optoma's calculator

Sure it does, look again.


peace

okay, you are right, i must have not been doing something right, but that still doesn't match up with what guitarman is saying. he's claiming that on full zoom you can have a 106" diag or 92" wide screen from 12ft 5inches away. the calculators are stating that you need way more than that...

Maybe he can double check his measurements?
And it's not way more, more like 1inch.<edit forget this part, my mistake.

peace

no actually it's 2" :)

and that's 2" i don't have ;)

I am really wanting to hear about the usability of a HTPC with this projector. This is the deal breaker for me as my HTPC will be the main source. If it is a no go I will get the 4805.


peace

Originally posted by SIMJEDI
I am really wanting to hear about the usability of a HTPC with this projector. This is the deal breaker for me as my HTPC will be the main source. If it is a no go I will get the 4805.


peace

I'm with you on this one as well. I have recommended the H31 and 4805 to my father (I have a 4805 myself and love it, but the H31 looks fantastic as well so I told him he has two good choices).

Anyway, he wants me to build him an HTPC for whichever one he gets because he likes mine so much. But now I'm not sure the H31 is the way to go since it is not for sure if an HTPC can pixel map with the H31.

Future info would be greatly appreciated.

I would be glad to go through an H31/HTPC combo set-up and report my findings but I would need to be provided with a demo unit [ maybe something that Tom can arrange with Optoma or if anybody else would care to offer one up for testing purposes ? ] . As somebody that still thinks the H30 is an excellent unit and currently uses the same TI DLP DC2 Panel found in the H31 [ with a 4805 ] I honestly think the H31 sounds like a winner . Maybe I can even talk kras into giving it his once over so we can get some real world numbers on this unit ;) .

--- So if anybody wants to offer one up let me know and I will be glad to run it through the HTPC test :) .

----- Best Wishes ,
---------- Jason


*** to the mods , thank you for deleting that mess ***

I tried to get a H77 for Steve Smallcomb the Smart guy, but it was a no go. I wish someone up in your area could bring one by.

Originally posted by guitarman
I tried to get a H77 for Steve Smallcomb the Smart guy, but it was a no go. I wish someone up in your area could bring one by.

--- Yeah , it would be easier if somebody around me had one but it seems they are still in very limited distribution at this point .

--- I can imagine it would be difficult for them to part with an H77 for a demo [ they only do that for the homeboys ;) ] .

--- Thanks for the response however :D .

-------- Jason

I currently have the h31, i can not get it to go to 854 x 480 resolution on my pc either, when i set it to 854 x 480 it goes to 800 x 600 on the projector. I run the projector in 800 x 600 and i set my dvd player software to full screen to get it to fill my 16:9 screen. For know i will live with this problem, i dont think it affects the picture quality operating this way, it looks great. For this price of the projector i think its a great buy and you cant ask for everything for this price. I notice it does an exelent job on displaying 4:3 material into my 16:9 screen, i dont even notice squashing of the image. When i watch a movie on my older tv 4:3 aspect ratio screen and watch a 16:9 movie and turn it to fullscreen it looks like crap, but doing the same thing with this projector doesnt affect the image like the tv did.