Mitsubishi HC3000 MSRP $2,995 [Text View] - Page 10

randyox

08-29-06, 03:44 PM

After a lot of thought and careful review, I've decided to make the jump and get this projector. I am excited to finally get my home theater done. It has been a dream of mine for almost 20 years. My wife is excited as well. I have a feeling football will never be the same :D .

As I have been reading the threads, my daughter thought it was cool that "Joey" from 'Friends' was on this forum. When I questioned her about "Joey", she said, "You know the guy...'DaGamePimp'" So, Jason...do you have a twin or what :p

I'll send pix once we are up and going. For those who have positioned this on a table, how low have you placed the projector? I am thinking about positioning mine on the bottom level of our coffee table. My ceiling is low so this is our only option with the offset. Thanks again for all the info. from everyone. :)

_mulder

08-29-06, 04:24 PM

Okay I seen it at best buy and I stood there for 10 minutes trying to see if I notice a rainbow effect or effects me any way but it was so bright in there the screen wasnt that easy too see. So my question is Should I really be worried about rainbow effect or any thing else people say about DLPs? Or is this problem overblown and very rare?

Hi Maigon,
I had for a little over 3 years an Infocus X1 projector and I could see sometimes rainbow effect (I had to look for them). Got this great projector a month ago and I have tried to look for rainbow effect but I just don't see them. Obviously your mileage may vary but I have had a lot of people come to my place when I had the X1 and no one ever complained about this effect. So I think that some people might be affected but it is the minority and this problem is more on the rare side. Anyway, I remember when I first got my X1, I was in awe at the quality of the image and I got to say, I've had the same impression when I first fired up the HC3000 (now projecting on a elunevision 120" gray screen). This projector impresses me the more I look at it and I have not even had it calibrated professionaly yet (still waiting to have at least 100 hours on the lamp). Hope this help.

fleaman

08-29-06, 04:39 PM

Maingon,

If you don't already know, Mitsubishi is coming out with the successor to the H3000, the new H3100 http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=711802

It has a new DC3 chip and some other performance improvements. Most importantly for you is the fact this has an option to up the colorwheel speed to 5x (H3000 doesn't have this option). If your not sure about rainbows affecting you (odds are it won't), but want to purchase a PJ that will least likely cause it, then the newer H3100 might interest you. For those that are a little patient (not sure of USA release date), and don't mind paying a little more (surely the H3000 will maybe be a $1000 cheaper or more when the H3100 is released), you might want to consider it.

I know I am :)
But not for the 5x wheel option, I'm interested mostly for the contrast improvements (I'm a contrast junky).

Fleaman

Dave Mack

08-29-06, 05:19 PM

Hi Guys,

I actually do sometimes still see rainbows. Not often but at times. More on PAL discs running at 50 hz. as the wheel goes slower, (200 revolutions a sec. as opposed to 240 for 60 hz. NTSC, I believe...)
The new Mits seems interesting...

;)

DaGamePimp

08-29-06, 06:24 PM

As I have been reading the threads, my daughter thought it was cool that "Joey" from 'Friends' was on this forum. When I questioned her about "Joey", she said, "You know the guy...'DaGamePimp'" So, Jason...do you have a twin or what :p

I find that comparison offensive as I am most certainly at least twice as smart and much better looking than that Joey feller ( that should all be obvious from the little , teeny weeny , itsy bitsy face pic :D ) .

I told my wife that since it gave me a laugh and she was actually offended , she said I am much better looking than he is (I told her she was probably brand biased , hehe) .

So far on this board I have been told that I look like about 4-5 different hollywood people so I figure I must look the part , now where are my millions $$$ :D . Sad thing is that I can probably act/sing/dance better than most of the people that I have been compared to :( . Where are all the hollywood agents when you need em' , certainly not on AVS ;) .

Best Wishes ,
---- Jason

krasmuzik

08-29-06, 08:02 PM

I hear Paramount is looking for someone younger and cheaper than Tom Cruise .....:D

gottahavapj

08-29-06, 10:46 PM

Jason!

I think you look like John Dillinger (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Dillinger) in your avatar pic, albeit a happier, less manacing and in-color one. :D

Cheers!

Mr Ian B

08-31-06, 04:21 PM

DaGamePimp

08-31-06, 06:09 PM

Hehe , funny guys ;) .

------- Jason

DaGamePimp

08-31-06, 06:12 PM

Hi gang;

I am posting this question here in case anyone with this particular model has an x-box hooked up to it. I just got one and I am currently using the component input for the hd cable box. What adaptor do I need to hook up the x-box component cables to the 2nd component/computer in input?

Thanks,

Ian B

Ian ,

You need a VGA to Component adapter/cable . These are usually called VGA breakout cables and can be found at most online cable suppliers .

Like this inexpensive one from MonoPrice : http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10235&cs_id=1023503&p_id=2174&style=&seq=1&format=1#largeimage

------- Jason

Mr Ian B

08-31-06, 09:38 PM

Ian ,

You need a VGA to Component adapter/cable . These are usually called VGA breakout cables and can be found at most online cable suppliers .

Like this inexpensive one from MonoPrice : http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10235&cs_id=1023503&p_id=2174&style=&seq=1&format=1#largeimage

------- Jason

Thanks Jason. That takes care of the plug connection on the back of the projector. Now, how do I interconnect the 3 component cables on the other end to the 3 component cables coming out of the back of the xbox.

Thanks,

Ian B

DaGamePimp

09-01-06, 01:32 AM

Ian ,

Grab one of these at Radio Shack if you have the newer style Xbox component cable .

Radio Shack Catalog #: 274-898
Image : http://rsk.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pRS1C-2264938w345.jpg

The old style Xbox connector had female RCA inputs on the component box where as the new style is just male RCA cables .

--------- Jason

Mr Ian B

09-01-06, 09:09 AM

rebel88

09-01-06, 11:32 AM

Projector arrived yesterday, did a quick set-up and BLAMO, total amazement. This projector rocks. Haven't had time to do a proper calibration, but I was impressed from the beginning. HD looks great, Xbox 360 fantastic, DVD's are fun to watch.

I have the projector mounted about 20 inches off the floor and shooting across a measly 10 feet to the opposite wall for a nice size screen. I can only image what 100+" would look like.

I can't believe I didn't make the jump sooner, but made it just in time for the start of football season.

Can anyone recommend a few quick fixes/suggestions for a first timer who is trying to optimize his experience?

Cesiumdeth

09-01-06, 06:16 PM

Just bought a Mits HC3000U sight unseen based on all the reviews here. I figured something like 95% of people don't see the Rainbow effect, so I should be ok... WRONG! I know it was a dumb move, and yes I know if I did some searches that I can probably find everything I am about to ask, but I only have a 10 day exchange policy, so whatever I'm going to do/try I need to do it fast.

Here is what I'm seeing, when I look from left to right or blink I can see the RGB lines. It is a lot worse on text, but I can see it at least a couple times a minute while watching video. It is unbelievably bad when I put on the white crosshatch pattern with the black background and look up and down or left and right. I noticed it from nearly the minute I turned the projector on, and I've never seen the rainbow effect before in my life (the only other DLP projector I've watched a movie on is the Optoma H79).

Setup:
Completely dark room
Projecting on an 80" wide 16:9 screen
Screen material is Dalite HighPower with a gain of 2.8 (I hope this may be the problem)
Sitting 11' back
I have brightness at -30 the iris closed and on low lamp mode

This really bothers me, so my question is if I'm seeing rainbow effect this bad will anything I can do possibly fix it or would it at best just minimize it. I also would like some ideas of things that I could do quickly (again 10 day exchange policy) to try to resolve this.

If I got a gray screen would this be my best possible solution?

Thanks for the fast answers,
Daniel

fleaman

09-01-06, 06:32 PM

Setup:
Completely dark room
Projecting on an 80" wide 16:9 screen
Screen material is Dalite HighPower with a gain of 2.8 (I hope this may be the problem)
Sitting 11' back
I have brightness at -30 the iris closed and on low lamp mode

This really bothers me, so my question is if I'm seeing rainbow effect this bad will anything I can do possibly fix it or would it at best just minimize it. I also would like some ideas of things that I could do quickly (again 10 day exchange policy) to try to resolve this.

Daniel

Yikes! Your set up definitely enhances the possibilities of RBE. RBE is worse (or more likely) with a brighter set up. In your case you have the HC3000 which is known to be a rather bright PJ (many here use a ND2 filter on the lens which cuts brightness down 50%!), a smaller screen (smaller = brighter) and a high gain screen! You practically can watch football with an atomic explosion going off in the background. With movies you probably have to wear sunglasses during bright scenes :eek:

Suggestions:

1.0 gain screen at the most.
ND2 filter

This should cure the problem.

If you want to pull out all guns, then try to use a larger screen also.

Good luck.

Fleaman

Cesiumdeth

09-01-06, 06:53 PM

This should cure the problem.

Thanks for the reply fleaman.

That brings up a good question that I may not have been clear on. Is there anyone who has started with the HC3000U, seen bad rainbow effect, and now have it setup so they see absolutely zero rainbow effect?

An answer to this would REALLY help.

Also, if this doesn't work I will obviously going with LCD any opinions on a good exchange I could do with the projectors available at www.projectorusa.com. They don't have the Pany AE900 on the site, but I called and they said they would call the manufacturer and get back to me with a price. The exchange has to be of equal or grater or there is a 20% restocking fee :eek: (yikes!).

Thanks!
Daniel

fleaman

09-01-06, 06:57 PM

Cesiumdeth,

If one were to TRY to create RBE, they would go in the direction of your set up. 2.8 is a really high gain for a bright projector like this, then also on a small screen.

As a test, project on a white wall if possible...and at an increased pic size.

Fleaman

DaGamePimp

09-01-06, 08:47 PM

HeadRusch

09-01-06, 09:01 PM

Just to add something to this dicusssion, if I sit close to my 65" CRT HD set by Mitsubishi, and I dart my eyes around the screen, I see rainbows.

Yep...I can see color seperation artifacts similar to the rainbow effect on a CRT RPTV.

When I see rainbows on my DLP projector its because I'm sitting too close. If I sit even just a foot or two back, I dont see the rainbows anymore...eyes are moving less, so less chance of seeing them.

Throwing up a grid or imagine with bright (white) on dark (black), you'll easily see rainbows. Here's a hint...dont dart your eyes around looking for them :)

I've never had a problem with rainbows, even when I can see them 9/10 its because its 2am and my eyes are fatigued anyhow.

Cesiumdeth

09-01-06, 09:40 PM

While things can be made worse with the set-up odds are that if you see RBE then you see it . The one thing that should help is going to a faster color-wheel (like a 6x : meaning a higher end DLP) or going LCD . Many people make the mistake of trying to see it , which sounds like this might be the case here . Do not dart your eyes back and forth , just watch in the middle of the screen and your eyes will adjust to the size as long as you are not sitting too close for the size of the image . I think some also tend to mistake RBE for color flaring . Color flaring is usually an optical issue that has to do with panel alignment to the lens where one can see primary colors flaring off from edges (this is very easy to detect with a hatch or cross pattern) . Sometimes color flaring can be corrected with a combination of focus and zoom in just the right spots .

Try toning down the contrast and try ceiling mounting the HC3000 to knock that gain down from 2.8 to about 1.5 ( assuming you would like to keep the HC3000 ;) ) .

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

I don't think it is because I am looking for it, I think I am either really sensitive to it or something else is the culprit. I see it a lot when I blink too. I can watch the movie without darting my eyes, but not blinking now that would be difficult. :D

Does flaring just happen on the edges? When I have the crosshatch up I can see it throughout the entire projected image, all the white lines not just the edges. Also I don't know what RBE looks like because this is the first time that I think I see it, but it is really bad.

Thanks for the responses! I want to keep this projector if at all possible, so any input on what I might be doing wrong is great!

Daniel

FremontRich

09-01-06, 09:43 PM

I don't think it is because I am looking for it, I think I am either really sensitive to it or something else is the culprit. I see it a lot when I blink too. I can watch the movie without darting my eyes, but not blinking now that would be difficult. :D

Does flaring just happen on the edges? When I have the crosshatch up I can see it throughout the entire projected image, all the white lines not just the edges. Also I don't know what RBE looks like because this is the first time that I think I see it, but it is really bad.

Thanks for the responses! I want to keep this projector if at all possible, so any input on what I might be doing wrong is great!

Daniel

Another point to remember is that there are others who also see RBEs but as time progresses it bothers them less and less. Try implementing all those suggestions given to you to mitigate the issue but also give yourself time to adjust. :)

Cesiumdeth

09-01-06, 11:21 PM

fleaman

09-01-06, 11:35 PM

I know the color wheel speed has the greatest effect on reducing RBE; Does the number of segments in the wheel help too?

I never saw RBE on the Optoma H79, which has a 5X wheel with 8 segments, as apposed the the HC3000U's 4X wheel with 6 segments.

I just find it hard to believe that the 1X wheel difference would make me go from seeing zero RBE to as much as I am seeing (if it is indeed RBE and not something else). :confused:

Daniel

The extra speed makes a difference if you're sensitive. But then again, the H79 is not nearly as bright as the HC3000, especially if the lamp on the H79 wasn't new.
Add to that the 2.8 gain small screen you are using (same set up when you viewed the H79??).

Project on a flat white wall at close to 100" and sit 1.5x screen widths back as see if RBE is still pronounced or not. If this works and you want to keep your screen, a ND2 filter might be all that you need...and they're cheep.

Again, your set up enhances RBE possibility, especially if you're sensitive. my suggestions (my first response) have a high chance of eliminating RBE and additionally correcting for a more movie theater film like experience. What you have right now is Plasma like brightness...good for TV, but probably too bright for DVD's and this set up becomes more RBE likely too.

Fleaman

jsil

09-02-06, 01:35 PM

I'm looking at this projector for my family room. I will be sitting at 8' from screen and projector will be 13' from screen. The screen size I'm looking for is 80" to 92". Will I see alot of RBE for sitting this close to the screen. I'm also looking at the pan ae900. Thanks for input. :confused:

HeadRusch

09-02-06, 04:13 PM

Can't say for sure, but odds are that Yep, you'll see Rainbows. The closer you get to the screen, the more your eyes have to dart around to follow the action.

The more your eyes dart around, the greater the likleyhood you'll see rainbows on any light object on a darker background. They wont last long, and they'll be more like a split-seconds annoyance (if they annoy at all), but this could probably be solved by moving a few feet back.

8' is awfully close, even for a 92" screen.

krasmuzik

09-02-06, 04:29 PM

If you are seeing rainbows - turn off BrilliantColor and report back....also use the lower/warmest color temp preset.

At 8' away you also want no larger than an 82" diag. Then your viewing angle will be same as someone further away from a larger screen - not to close.

brightness & closeness are two things that cause more RBE.

Cesiumdeth

09-02-06, 04:58 PM

The extra speed makes a difference if you're sensitive. But then again, the H79 is not nearly as bright as the HC3000, especially if the lamp on the H79 wasn't new.
Add to that the 2.8 gain small screen you are using (same set up when you viewed the H79??).

Project on a flat white wall at close to 100" and sit 1.5x screen widths back as see if RBE is still pronounced or not. If this works and you want to keep your screen, a ND2 filter might be all that you need...and they're cheep.

Again, your set up enhances RBE possibility, especially if you're sensitive. my suggestions (my first response) have a high chance of eliminating RBE and additionally correcting for a more movie theater film like experience. What you have right now is Plasma like brightness...good for TV, but probably too bright for DVD's and this set up becomes more RBE likely too.

Fleaman

Thanks for all the help guys. I went to Target and bought a white vinyl curtain liner, a white sheet, and a gray sheet. There was some improvement, but still way to distracting. Then I projected on my black painted wall (eggshell) and I could still see it with brightness at -30. Looks like I'm one of the unfortunate few.

Guess this one is going to Ebay with less than 10 hours on it (what a shame)! Are there any new LCD's less than $4,000 worth waiting for, or is the Pany PT-AE900U the way to go?

Thanks again guys,
Daniel

maingon

09-02-06, 06:09 PM

I am thinking about going with this projector still and for a 92" screen would 10 - 11 feet back for the first row be good or is this still too close and around 15 feet back. I keep going back to this projector becuase how the picture is suppose to be much better then the Z4 or Panny AE900U. but as many worried about RBE and the 20% restocking fee

ender21

09-03-06, 11:33 AM

jkbird

09-03-06, 01:07 PM

you guys have my head spinning i should be in the pool :) my situation, basement total light control low (7 ft) ceiling want to put pj on coffee table between two chairs. can be between 10 or 12 feet from 92 inch screen.will this work. panny 900 will. do saw this pj(mitsu) for price of panny minus the rebate and blockbuster card. help c.c in hand. :eek:

jsil

09-03-06, 01:29 PM

Thanks guys for the input. :)

DaGamePimp

09-03-06, 04:09 PM

So I've read all the posts about how good the HD-A1 looks on the HC3000, and I agree. I've had the HD-A1 for a few weeks now and love the PQ.

Yesterday I decided to pick up the Pioneer VSX-84TXSi Receiver to allow for more HDMI flexibility and i.link capability than my Outlaw 990 has, but I could not, for the life of me get a HDMI signal to the HC3000 from the Receiver.

When I separated the components out minus the receiver while troubleshooting, I couldn't get a picture running directly to the projector from *any* of my HDMI components: HDTivo, Denon 3910, Toshiba HD-A1. The only two component I got a picture from running straight to the projector was my old, mothballed Bravo D1. And of course that was DVI>HDMI. Otherwise, my 3 HDMI components needed to be switched to DVI and run through the Outlaw pre/pro and then from the pre/pro to the HC3000 in order to show a picture. Nothing HDMI>HDMI ever gave me anything, and I tried several different cables.

Thoughts or ideas anyone? Has anyone else had an issue like this they solved? Thanks in advance!

Rick

Rick ,

There is a known issue with the Pioneer 84 , a couple other members have had the similar problems (no image over HDMI with 1080i from the HD DVD player but 720p seems to work) . Right now it does not appear that there is a fix but when in doubt unplug everything and start over , also be sure that your HC3000 is powered up first , then the receiver and then the HD DVD player . Be sure to use the V.Ouput button on the remote to switch to HDMI .

Best of Luck ,
---- Jason

ocharlies

09-03-06, 04:33 PM

fleaman

09-03-06, 04:40 PM

ender21

09-03-06, 04:58 PM

Rick ,

There is a known issue with the Pioneer 84 , a couple other members have had the similar problems (no image over HDMI with 1080i from the HD DVD player but 720p seems to work) . Right now it does not appear that there is a fix but when in doubt unplug everything and start over , also be sure that your HC3000 is powered up first , then the receiver and then the HD DVD player . Be sure to use the V.Ouput button on the remote to switch to HDMI .

Best of Luck ,
---- Jason

Thanks Jason,

I've read about this issue re: the 84, so I've kept my receipt handy just in case and my dealer is extending my return period if I can't get it to work properly. Initially that's what I thought the problem was, but when I unplugged everything and started hooking up HDMI sources to the HC3000 directly, bypassing my Outlaw and the Pioneer 84 altogether, I was having problems from every source except the Bravo D1. That's when I started scratching my head.

Today I purchased a new HC3000, plugged it all in, and it worked just fine. I think it's a connector issue with the original HC3000, so I'll be getting that fixed.

I've yet to hook the Pioneer 84 backinto the mix, so stay tuned for the trials and tribulations of that one.

Rick

randyox

09-04-06, 12:45 AM

I am looking at a 110 -120 inch screen for this projector. Because I have a low ceiling (7'6
"), I am going to have to place this underneath my coffee table. How does the picture look with a screen this big? From what I have read, the projector should be bright enough...I can control the light in my room. I guess what I am worried about is how good the resolution will be on a screen that size. Any input would be appreciated. Have any of you gone bigger than a 120" screen? Thanks for any info.

dexx

09-04-06, 01:10 AM

I am looking at a 110 -120 inch screen for this projector. Because I have a low ceiling (7'6
"), I am going to have to place this underneath my coffee table.
Sorry for the tangent - what is the issue with a low ceiling and ceiling mounting? Is there an existing thread which discusses it?

JosephShaw

09-04-06, 01:23 AM

I really like to get the HC300U after reading a lot of reviews and comments here.

My basement room is totally dark, no windows, 20' x 25', 7' dropdown ceiling.

I prefer to have ceiling mount and screen size of about 120". Do you guys think the hc3000u will work?

No. See below.

Sorry for the tangent - what is the issue with a low ceiling and ceiling mounting? Is there an existing thread which discusses it?

From what I've read, for a screen size of 120" diagonally your image height is going to be ~59", but the top edge will be 20" below the center line of the lens when it's ceiling mounted. That's going to make it very tight without having the image bottom out on the floor.

Joseph

AMDEW

09-04-06, 06:53 AM

I am very impressed even though I have it shooting onto a sheet right now. Great colors and sharp picture. What is most amazing is how silent the projector is. This is my first projector and based on all the ink spilled here on it I was expecting it to sound like a jet engine. No way. Four feet away it is virtually inaudible (in low mode). Very nice. I'll update my impressions when I get my 119" Da-Lite High Contrast Matte White screen installed.

mech

09-04-06, 12:10 PM

From what I've read, for a screen size of 120" diagonally your image height is going to be ~59", but the top edge will be 20" below the center line of the lens when it's ceiling mounted. That's going to make it very tight without having the image bottom out on the floor.
Joseph

Joseph hit the nail on the head.

Folks, if you're interested in this projector but don't know if it will work go here:

Mitsu Projector Tools Web Page (http://www.mitsubishi-presentations.com/resources/projector_tools.html#throw)

download the projector tools program near the bottom and plug in your numbers. I've found it to be accurate in my application.

mech

mech

09-04-06, 12:12 PM

I should add, you could keystone the image. Tilt the camera up, and correct it within the menu under the keystone option. But most folks strongly discourage it. I never tried it.

mech

fleaman

09-04-06, 12:35 PM

This is my first projector and based on all the ink spilled here on it I was expecting it to sound like a jet engine. .

Strange. I've read this thread from the beginning and can't recall anyone commenting that this projector was loud, in fact, the exact opposite (very quite) is what I've read.

Sure you weren't mistaking this for the Optoma H7100 thread ;)

Fleaman

AMDEW

09-04-06, 03:14 PM

No, I was exagerating. Some people in this thread did complain about it being loud but my impression is that it is nearly silent.

FremontRich

09-04-06, 03:42 PM

I just hooked up my Mits HC3000 with a 92" Elite CineTension High Contrast screen and a RCA HDV5000 HD DVD player and the image is awesome out of the box. I know it needs calibration but the HD-DVD version of "The Last Samurai" is terrific. :D

randyox

09-04-06, 03:51 PM

I know the offset for me will not work mounted from the ceiling. That is why I said that I will be placing it under my coffee table. I just wanted to know of those who have the projector and are shooting on a screen larger than 110" how the resolution is. I know it will vary depending on the source. I have DirecTV and am planning on getting the Oppo DVD player. I am just very curious as to how the pictures looks on a large screen. I am contemplating going with a 120" screen.

fleaman

09-04-06, 04:12 PM

I just wanted to know of those who have the projector and are shooting on a screen larger than 110" how the resolution is. .

It's all relative to your seating distance.

Most sit within 1.5x screen widths (not diagonal) away.

Some sit a little closer.

Some with eagle eye vision would maybe sit a little further.

Either way, larger screen = sitting further away, and vice versa (all things being equal).

Fleaman

FremontRich

09-04-06, 04:18 PM

randyox

09-04-06, 04:47 PM

DaGamePimp

09-04-06, 06:17 PM

I am looking at a couple of high gain screens. I guess my decision now is how big of a screen. That is why I am curious as to how good the picture looks to those who have this projector using a screen size of 110" and above. I am getting pretty excited about getting things set up. I am just a couple of weeks away from having my room ready to make the plunge! I am still very serious about going with a 120" screen size.

I use over a 110" HiPower with a ceiling mounted HC3000 (so about 1.5 gain) and the image is stunning ! We purchased a 55" HDTV for my son and connected the HD DVD player to it , no comparison , the HC3000 chewed up the 55" and spit it out (this was an HDtv that had a $3400 MSRP) .

;) ------- Jason

JosephShaw

09-04-06, 08:55 PM

Well, after waiting and waiting and waiting for whatever solution I was going to buy for the last two years, I finally pulled the trigger today. I purchased an HC3000U NIB from a big box store for a pretty good price after the 12% off rewardzone coupon was added. And the 36 months 0% interest really helped too. If only I could have talked them into selling me a copy of Lost Season 2 a day early. :D

Anyway, with the thing sitting on a box on the floor in the theater room and playing Finding Nemo projected onto the off white wall, all my wife could say was "Wow... This is so much better than that JVC (DILA 1080P set)." I have to say, I concur, and though I was originally planning on buying the HD72, I'm very happy with the Mitsubishi.

Now the question is, what mount is everyone using fo this thing? I've got a little girl who plans on throwing a sleepover for her 8th birthday, so this needs to get up ASAP. Thanks.

Joseph

AMDEW

09-04-06, 09:51 PM

I used the Chief Universal. It gets a lot of good reviews around here.

FremontRich

09-04-06, 10:37 PM

I used the Chief Universal. It gets a lot of good reviews around here.

I concur. The Chief RPA-U works great with the Mits HC3000. :D

mech

09-05-06, 08:07 AM

We purchased a 55" HDTV for my son

You adopting anytime soon? I may be available... :D

mech

SixkillerNYC

09-05-06, 08:57 AM

I received my projector on friday and spent all weekend redoing the room it's housed in. After running HDMI, component, svideo, and composite cables up the wall and throught he ceiling, plus speaker wire, then mounting the projector and firing everything up I gave it a go.

Just incredible. It totally blew away my expectations, and I couldn't be happier. I painted the room this weekend as well, and it's a dark taupe, but it's close enough to gray that the image works for now. I was originally planning on making a fabric screen, but now I think I might just make a frame and paint the wall. I'm throwing a 116" image with a view distance of about 11.5'. Even without the screen and pretty much uncalibrated it looks spectacular. I know things are only going to get better, and it makes me giggle just thinking about it. I had a group of neighbors over and showed them the opening few minutes of episode III along with PGR3 on the xbox 360. The consensus was, "We're coming over here every night. Deal with it." :)

Thanks to everyone in this thread, along with the rest of the forum in general. I got a ton of information and felt confident buying this projector and the results have surpassed my expectations so far (and they were high to begin with).

randyox

09-05-06, 09:37 AM

SixkillerNYC

09-05-06, 09:45 AM

SixkillerNYC...great to read your post. I am very excited to get my projector in a couple of weeks. I was pleased to hear that you are so happy with the picture with the 116" throw. I, too, have contemplated putting together a cloth screen. Out of curiousity, what was the paint that you used for your wall? I have read with great interest what DaGamePimp has to say. He recommends a hi gain screen due to the size of the picture that I want...120". Again, you guys are making me crazy. Patience is something I have not been blessed with a lot of and I am chomping at the bits to get mine up and going. SixkillerNYC, it would be great to see any pix you may have.

Thanks again for your information!

I painted not to get a good screen but because I liked the color for the room. it ended up working as a screen temporarily, though :) I did get the basic flat so the room would reflect as little light as possible.

I don't know the actual name or code, but it's a flat taupe I got at lowes - not their super premium paint, but not the bargain stuff either. About $20 a can.

Here are some pics I took last night. you can see a DVD case on the left for some scale.

http://www.vecci.net/images/random/projector3.jpg
http://www.vecci.net/images/random/projector2.jpg

randyox

09-05-06, 10:00 AM

Pix look great! My son will really appreciate the gaming screen shot. He keeps telling me that he wants to have a Halo tournament when we get everything set up. Again, thanks for all the input. Love the pix!

SixkillerNYC

09-05-06, 10:04 AM

No problem :) I downloaded a bunch of 720p trailers on the 360 and they look spectacular. A Scanner Darkly and the Halo 3 teaser were among the highlights.

tiber

09-05-06, 11:53 AM

UPS tells me the projector is coming today... too bad I'm out of town for a few more days! :eek: I'll just have to have the wife describe the box to me.

Seriously, I'm hoping for a similar experience as SixKillerNYC is having... I'll be having the complete install finalized next week if all goes well. Can't wait.

ocharlies

09-05-06, 01:33 PM

Anyone here had upgraded to the HC3000U from an Infocus 4805? Is the PQ significant?

I mainly watch HDTV and DVD, and my son plays xbox 360.

My 7' basement ceiling will not allow for ceiling mount, but I think I can live with placing the projector on a coffee or end table.

mooney

09-05-06, 02:55 PM

OCharlies

Yes I updated 4805 to HC3000. Biggest differences are the lack of screen door and lower fan noise w/HC3K.

Colors, brightness and throw distance are .
similar. Had my HC3K calibrated and now it is somewhat dimmer than before but this seems to be typical of all PJ.

The HC3000 is worth the upgrade and is now selling for about half what I paid a year ago.

fleaman

09-05-06, 03:00 PM

mooney

09-05-06, 03:12 PM

Yes those are better but the ability to sit closer w/o screen door and the huge reduction in fan noise were the most important for ME.

Different things may be more important to you. The Mits HC3000 was a big improvement in all areas.

I changed from a 92" Carada gray screen w/ 4805 to a 106" Firehawk with the HC3000. So take that into consideration.

fleaman

09-05-06, 03:18 PM

Yeah, I'm a contrast/shadow detail/smooth-shadows junkie freak. Any improvements in these areas gives more depth/3D image in dark scenes.

More important than resolution to me.

I have a H31 Optoma at the moment (which is whisper quite!).

I think I'm gonna hold out just a little bit longer for the HC3100, if it actually gets released here.

Thanks for your input.

Fleaman

mooney

09-05-06, 03:32 PM

Fleaman

I am going to CEDIA and I'll report on the availability of the 3100 for you.

fleaman

09-05-06, 03:58 PM

Fleaman

I am going to CEDIA and I'll report on the availability of the 3100 for you.

:) :) :)

ascdga

09-05-06, 05:22 PM

Given a choice between the IN76 and HC3000U (say they cost the same) and your room could accomodate either installation, which would you choose?

Are they in fact identical in picture quality once properly calibrated?

krasmuzik

09-05-06, 06:51 PM

ascdga

09-05-06, 07:14 PM

ascdga

They are not "identical" in picture quality. The IN76 is 2-3x as bright, while the HC3000U has perfect REC709 HD gamut and color decoding. You certainly can see those differences in a calibrated shootout with a critically trained eye.

Greyscale/contrast/gamma however are nearly identical however.

Of course this assume professional calibration - out of the box it is no contest - IN76 wins.

Okay, thanks for the reply but being a relative FP noob I have to ask the obvious noob follow-up question:

How about after professional calibration of both units? What exactly are the differences you refer to?

Also, I'm a little confused about the whole colorspace issue. Is SMPTE-C the standard being used for DVD authoring? And if so, then wouldn't that mean that the IN76 would give you a more accurate picture?

hmcewin

09-05-06, 07:44 PM

maingon

09-06-06, 12:19 AM

How is the HC3000 with videogames such as Xbox 360 and PS2? are LCDS such as the Sony VPL-HS60 better with games?

Dave Mack

09-06-06, 01:43 AM

My 3000 is a light cannon, I have it on low lamp and iris closed at -7 contrast and it STILL is bright. :)

AMDEW

09-06-06, 08:47 AM

I ditto Mack. The HC3000 is bright. Many people are using filters to tone it down.

SixkillerNYC

09-06-06, 09:11 AM

How is the HC3000 with videogames such as Xbox 360 and PS2? are LCDS such as the Sony VPL-HS60 better with games?

It's superb.

http://www.vecci.net/images/random/projector3.jpg

RichE

09-06-06, 11:32 AM

Does anybody think we will see another price drop or rebate/lamp deal on the HC3000 after CEDIA or does that place too much pricing pressure on the HC1000. They are only about $100 difference currently.

JosephShaw

09-06-06, 03:02 PM

maingon

09-06-06, 03:10 PM

I only see rainbows when sitting close to the screen. When sitting at least 1.5x back, I don't notice them.

thanks thats good to hear

jedimindcontrol

09-07-06, 01:49 PM

I just saw that Best Buy has the HC3000 advertised for $1799 now!

SixkillerNYC

09-07-06, 01:53 PM

I just saw that Best Buy has the HC3000 advertised for $1799 now!

Honestly, that's not a very good price, especially considering you'd have to pay tax.

there are a lot of dealers right now who will beat that, even including overnight shipping.

Dave Mack

09-07-06, 02:04 PM

You can get a 10% off coupon for BB in lots of places. Brings it down...

FremontRich

09-07-06, 02:58 PM

I just saw that Best Buy has the HC3000 advertised for $1799 now!

I got mine for less at AVS. Talk to Jason.

jedimindcontrol

09-07-06, 03:10 PM

I pay dealer cost so its of no concern to me. Just found it interesting they dropped the price.

Dean Prestholt

09-07-06, 04:46 PM

Since the price keeps dropping on the 3000 that may mean the 3100 will be released in the US after all.

krasmuzik

09-07-06, 06:05 PM

I do not understand how the In76 could be 2 or 3 times brighter than the Mits 3000 when comparing the specs.

That is because you are reading marketing specs - not calibration specs.

To bring a MitsuHC3000 to the D65 white balance point requires a large reduction in blue/green and green is where you get your lumens from. In a side by side shootout - we had to equalize the IN76 with a ND2 or ND3 filter (can't remember but I have the measures of both somewhere around here).

The HC3100 is brighter at calibration - because they have optimized the color wheel for that 6500K preset (more red segment - just like Infocus). And new lamps are always plenty bright - just wait a few hundred hours and you will change your tune!

They are certainly just as bright as each other if you use the high bright (11K and very very Cyan/Green) color temperature with BrilliantColor on - Mitsu has not gamed that spec. The Infocus spec is the same - it just applies to calibrated point (actually native point about 5% away).

krasmuzik

09-07-06, 06:10 PM

Okay, thanks for the reply but being a relative FP noob I have to ask the obvious noob follow-up question:

How about after professional calibration of both units? What exactly are the differences you refer to?

Also, I'm a little confused about the whole colorspace issue. Is SMPTE-C the standard being used for DVD authoring? And if so, then wouldn't that mean that the IN76 would give you a more accurate picture?

That is a professionaly debated topic amongst calibrators. The argument goes that HD mastering studios are still using SMPTE-C based professional monitors - and SMPTE-C is of course what is being used in DVD mastering studios (REC601 for DVD does not specify the color gamut - only color decoding - SMPTE-C is just what the monitors used to master). Many of the top calibrators will charge you extra on those high-end displays that allow the gamut to be adjusted - to setback from the REC709 standard with the deeper colors to SMPTE-C DVD colors for both units.

I am not sure you can say either way is right or wrong! But the REC709 colors sure look pretty! Wait until PS3 comes out with expanded gamut games - assuming any monitor will ever support it!

My review comments are based on professional calibration - it is what I do! But most displays do not have controls to adjust color gamut and color decoding. Neither one here does - it is just where they end up.

ronozer

09-08-06, 06:47 AM

So I am now starting to use my HC3000 with the iMac to play HDTV files. The first shows we have been watching have been Fox HD shows recorded with an EyeTV 500 from our Comcast Cable box. I use EyeTV to play the Video as well through the miniDVI port on the back of the iMac, adapted to HDMI for the projector, through a monoprice HDMI switcher. The picture mostly stays clean and clear, but we have noticed that people's lips are too ed, it can be distracting (using the same calibration settings that look great with DVD). I adjusted the red levels down very low and it doesn't appear to help. Maybe there are settings on the Mac that need adjusting. When the projector goes on the Mac switches to Mirror mode, 720p automatically. Suggestions! Thanks, maybe I'll post in Mac forum also.

rebel88

09-10-06, 05:03 PM

Guys,

I'm having a little bit of trouble with my Mitsu and the Xbox360. On some of the games it looks like the picture is offcenter a bit. The best example is on GRAW where I can't see the left side of the visor. I assume this is an overscan issue but I don't know how to correct it. Can anyone give some advice?

I can attach a pic for reference to what I'm talking about if needed.

Josh Z

09-10-06, 07:42 PM

I assume this is an overscan issue but I don't know how to correct it.

There's an overscan setting in the projector's setup menu. It's on the far right menu page. The default is 97%. You want to change it to 100%.

Mr Ian B

09-11-06, 09:24 AM

Is anyone using a Denon 2807avr with this projector and the toshiba HD-A1? Any problems with the HDMI between these 3? I am considering this receiver as it will output all my connections whether they are component, s-video to HDMI into the projector. That means, only one cable going from the receiver to the projector and the Denon 2807avr doing all the video input switching.

Thanks,

Mr Ian B

UFGolf69

09-11-06, 11:43 AM

Hey guys, I need help. I thought by projector was having a power supply problem because last week I noticed that the image was starting to flicker ever so slightly. It does this flickering with all inputs, (cable, dvd, antenna, etc.) so I know it isn't one of my components. When I started playing with the projector I noticed it wasn't the power supply that was insufficient. The image displayed on my screen is shaking ever so slightly. It isn't dramatic, but it is just enough that it annoys the heck out of me. Does anybody know why the projector would just start shaking? I am using a mount that seems very tight and hadn't had problems the first 5 months I have used it. Ideas?? Is it a bad projector, a setting, or what? It's done it for a week and it's driving me nuts.

Thanks,

Brant

Dave Vaughn

09-11-06, 12:02 PM

UF,
I am having a similar issue that has just started to happen. On LOW power, there is a slight screen flicker. It is difficult to see during moving action, but on a football game, the sides of the screen really shows it. If I turn the power to "high", it goes away, but the damn fan noise is too loud for me.

Dean Prestholt

09-11-06, 12:04 PM

Brant,
Try changing the lamp from low to high power or vice versa depending on how your set now. By using a different power setting the lamp arcs at a slightly different point (quick explanation). Run it at the opposite setting from where you usually do for a while, maybe a few minutes or more, then switch back.

That's what was suggested by Infocus engineer Bob Williams in the Infocus 4805 thread to sometimes help alleviate flicker. For more information maybe do a search in that thread.

Dave Vaughn

09-11-06, 12:58 PM

Dean,
Thanks for the tip...I will try that as well and see if it works.

UFGolf69

09-11-06, 01:50 PM

Dave and Dean,

Thanks for the help. I'll give it a try. This is exactly the reason why I love this forum.......

Brant

cgmoore

09-11-06, 11:39 PM

I noticed mine was shaking very very slightly earlier today. Figured it was probably just this creaky old apartment building. Just checked and it is stable now. Proj has been on for about 4 or 5 hours now.

cgmoore

09-11-06, 11:43 PM

DaGamePimp

09-12-06, 01:03 AM

fleaman

09-12-06, 02:17 AM

Ooooh! Ooooh!

The AC just kicked on and now it is shaking again...

My hypothesis now is that this shaking is actually mirage as the projector's vented hot air is swirled into the light path.

Upon closer examination, this is exactly what is going on... for me anyway.

Ughhh.

Gerald

Sure the AC isn't slightly vibrating your structure, which is amplifying through your ceiling mount? I guess you blocked/redirected your AC vent to confirm it was the AC air?

I would hope that at least the hot air is directed away from the lens normally (under static conditions)?

Fleaman

cgmoore

09-12-06, 09:33 AM

I am pretty sure it is mirage. I watched a blue screen for a bit and you could actually see it swirling, like clear smoke, across the projected image, from the direction of the vent. I used to see something similar in my old house, where I had an HVAC vent in the ceiling immediately in front of the screen. The heat would kick on in winter and the image would get pretty trippy sometimes.

But I guess the cricket that was chirping in my den last night -might- have stepped out for a Marlboro. You never know.

I will probably close the vent off. It blows right on the sofa, too, and I was getting cold last evening when the thing ran.

Gerald

cgmoore

09-12-06, 09:43 AM

I'm having trouble getting the VGA to sync perfectly with the projector. Getting rid of overscan helps make the image look clearer, but it is not perfect, as if the timings are slightly off. Am using analog HD15 connector. According to something I read earlier in this thread, this is unfortunately a limitation of this model?

Will the image look better over the digital input?

I have about 35' to travel. Monoprice has a couple of different DVI to HDMI cables in that length. One is 22AWG and is described as "tin-plated" copper. The other is 24AWG. Both are described as gold-plated, I assume they mean the connectors.

The 22AWG is about twice as much. I am going to guess it is also much heavier and less bendy and more of a pain to install. Can anyone give me some guidance as to whether the 24AWG will provide a solid digital signal over this length?

Thanks!

DaGamePimp

09-12-06, 04:30 PM

cgmoore ,

VGA does not map with a PC if that is what you are trying . Use the DVI to HDMI route , it maps perfectly . The 24AWG cable will work great , I bought one of the 22AWG cables and it was so big that it would not fit in my wire housing .

--------- Jason

UFGolf69

09-12-06, 05:03 PM

For everyone's information, I did switch the lamp mode from standard to low last night and the vibration did stop. After about 10 minutes I switched it back to standard and there was no shaking. So, mega props to Dave and Dean. Hopefully, it continues to work great.

Thanks guys!!!!

Brant

Dean Prestholt

09-12-06, 05:34 PM

I am pretty sure it is mirage. I watched a blue screen for a bit and you could actually see it swirling, like clear smoke, across the projected image, from the direction of the vent. I used to see something similar in my old house, where I had an HVAC vent in the ceiling immediately in front of the screen. The heat would kick on in winter and the image would get pretty trippy sometimes.

Gerald

I got the same effect when I had my LT150 setting on my coffee table. At first I thought my eyes were bugging out then I realized it was the heat coming out of the projector. Eventually I had to ceiling mount it. Not just because of the heat waves but because I wanted a bigger picture and while it was on my coffee table it broke the glass top that it was sitting on!! Lesson, don't put a projector blowing hot air on your glass table!! :eek: lol

Cesiumdeth

09-13-06, 08:47 AM

I know the color wheel speed has the greatest effect on reducing RBE; Does the number of segments in the wheel help too?

I never saw RBE on the Optoma H79, which has a 5X wheel with 8 segments, as apposed the the HC3000U's 4X wheel with 6 segments.

I just find it hard to believe that the 1X wheel difference would make me go from seeing zero RBE to as much as I am seeing (if it is indeed RBE and not something else). :confused:

Daniel

I just went to a friend's theater room last night. She has a Optoma H79 (5X Color wheel) projected onto a Carada Classic White 96" screen, in a completely light controlled room. I just wanted to note that I was mistaken when I said I never saw RBE on the Optoma H79, because last night I saw the rainbow effect (RBE) on her setup as well. For people reading this entire thread, I didn't want to deter anyone from this projector based on my experience. The picture this projector throws is incredible, so if RBE isn't a problem for you don't hesitate. I guess I'm just one of the unfortunate few, off to the LCD camp I guess :(

Daniel

Mr Ian B

09-14-06, 09:17 AM

Is the way to look at the bulb hours on this pj hitting the up-down-menu keys in the projector at the same time for 6 seconds correct? I did this about a week ago and got the hours. I have been trying to do it again for the last 2 days with no success. What gives? Do I need to be in a particular input to check them? Do I need to have a source turned on in order for this to work?

Thanks,

Ian B

Kelvins

09-14-06, 10:27 AM

Thanks for the help. you guys solved my problem

Josh Z

09-14-06, 10:48 AM

Is the way to look at the bulb hours on this pj hitting the up-down-menu keys in the projector at the same time for 6 seconds correct? I did this about a week ago and got the hours. I have been trying to do it again for the last 2 days with no success. What gives?

You have to push all the buttons simultaneously. It doesn't matter how long you hold them down for. If you do it right, the service menu should pop right up instantaneously. Hitting them one after the other and holding them together won't do it. It may take a couple of tries to get it right.

Mr Ian B

09-14-06, 11:51 AM

You have to push all the buttons simultaneously. It doesn't matter how long you hold them down for. If you do it right, the service menu should pop right up instantaneously. Hitting them one after the other and holding them together won't do it. It may take a couple of tries to get it right.

Thanks. I got it to work previously. I will keep trying by hitting them all at the same time.

Ian B

Josh Z

09-14-06, 12:52 PM

It doesn't help that the buttons are so small and positioned so close together. It's difficult to get your fingers on all of them at the same time.

rebel88

09-15-06, 03:29 PM

Thanks everyone for the overscan help. Its now a little better but the left side is slightly cut off. This brings me to a larger problem. I don't think my projected image is centered horizontally in the projected frame. I use the 16:9 mode to watch TV and play 360 and this leaves a shadowy area around the frame. I'm assuming this is the the additional pixels not being utilized due to the "real" aspect not being selected.

The problem I'm having is the shadowy area around the projected image is not symmetrical. One side has about a half inch of area and the other side has about one and three quarters inches of area showing. This is not preventing me from watching TV, just a distraction that annoys me late at night. I've got the projector set up perpendicual to the wall and level. It's centered vertically.

Can anyone help with this? Had a simialr problem?

http://i10.tinypic.com/3zstk6g.jpg

http://i10.tinypic.com/3zstk6g.jpg

schumacr

09-17-06, 03:24 PM

I've been reading through this post and found a lot of good information, but now that I own an HC3000, I wonder if anyone has produced a thread on calibrating the HC3000? Sort of a summarized list of settings that you use for yours? I've done a quick search and can't find a thread like this. Apologies in advance if I've overlooked it. And yep, I've looked through the display calibration forum a bit.

kevineck

09-17-06, 07:47 PM

To really get the HC3000u "dialed in" properly you need more advanced tools than just the basic Avia or VE discs. The way I chose to do this was with the combination of a Colorvision Spyder2 Express (http://colorvision.com/express/) color meter, CalMAN (http://calman.tv) calibration software, and the GetGray (http://calibrate.tv) calibration disc. Total cost for this was ~$200.

I figured that going this route would enable me to learn more about the calibration process even if if the results weren't as good as an ISF calibrator could have done. Plus, I'd be able to make adjustments as the bulb wears and have the tools for the yet to be announced 1080P Mits DLP I'll get down the road. In the end I was very pleased with the results.

This was my first attempt at performing a gray scale calibration, so if I mess up terminology or say something completely wrong please let me know.

I started out by doing some of the basic setup adjustments which have been recommended in this thread, plus some of my preferences.

Overscan -> 100%
Brilliant Color -> off
Iris -> closed
Lamp -> Low
Gamma -> Cinema
Color Temp -> user

I did a basic brightness/contrast adjustment and then fired up CalMAN and took an initial set of measurements. This involves taking readings using the color meter of "gray windows" at 10% intervals. CalMAN uses these readings to calculate a gamma curve, color temperature, and RGB level tracking. You also take measurements of "color windows" for the primary and secondary colors to see how color matches up to the spec.

Out of the box color temperature was pretty flat, but the temp was about 8500K. Way too blue. Level tracking showed that the colors stayed pretty flat, however there was too little red at 80% and blue was running at 120%. Green was actually at 100%.

You now make adjustments to the contrast and brightness for red, green, and blue under the user mode color temperature to bring the color level tracking into line with a goal of R,G, and B all tracking flat at 100%.

With their experience calibrators get a good feel for how these controls interact and are able to make good estimates at how to change the settings. I don't have that experience so I used the "wizard" built in to the CalMAN software. You tell the wizard the current values and available range for RGB brightness and contrast and it suggests new settings based on the gray scale reading that you took. You make the changes, take a new set of gray scale readings, and the wizard makes new suggestions. Repeat as needed.

In my case, after 6 sets of changes the wizard was "happy" and couldn't think of any other changes. Color temperature was now tracking pretty close to 6500K, and RGB levels were pretty close to 100%. Looking at the color chart white was almost spot on and they colors are pretty close to spec though a bit over-saturated.

After setting the gray scale I went back and adjusted overall contrast and brightness again to take the new settings into account.

Screen shots from CalMAN after calibration:
Gamma Curve, Color Temp, RGB Level Tracking (http://kevineckhardt.com/images/hc3000-calibrated.GIF)
Chromaticity, DeltaE (http://kevineckhardt.com/images/hc3000-calibrated2.GIF)

The bulb had <10 hours of use when I performed this calibration, so I'll need to recalibrate again as the bulb wears, but I now have the tools to be able to do this easily as often as I like.

In the end I learned a bit about color and gray scale calibration. I can also see an obvious improvement in the output from the Mits. A professional calibrator could likely eke that last bit of performance out of the PJ, but if you're willing to get your feet wet I'd recommend giving CalMAN a try.

Kevin

Happy owner of a new HC3000 (upgraded from an Optoma H30) and HD-DVD player.

fleaman

09-17-06, 08:28 PM

Kevineck,

Very nice write up and budget DYI calibration method! I think I might give your way a try, $200 seems to be a small sum of $$ considering the tools it seems to provide.
It appears you can measure contrast with these tools, have you--and what numbers did
you achieve?

Since you upgraded from an H30 (I myself have a H31), can you express the visual observational differences between the contrast/shadow details? Some have expressed the notion that you need a bat-cave like set up to see these contrast improvements at this level, at least it's a more common comment amongst the LCD campers.

Also, notice any reduction in dithering with the HC3000?

Fleaman

Josh Z

09-17-06, 09:04 PM

Mr Ian B

09-17-06, 11:59 PM

Any suggestions for cleaning the front lens without causing any scratches to it?

Thanks,

Ian B

JosephShaw

09-18-06, 12:43 AM

The manual says:

Use a standard lens-cleaning bursh or a piece of lense tissue dampened with lens cleaning fluid. The lense surface is fragile. Use only recommended, nonabrasive lens-cleaning materials. Do not touch the lens with your fingertips.
:D

A local camera shop should be able to help.

JosephShaw

09-18-06, 12:45 AM

Can anyone help with this? Had a simialr problem?

Try the AUTO POSTION button on the remote.

dreemweaver

09-18-06, 02:40 PM

I know this question has been asked a thousand times, but I am seriously considering this projector and need some advice whether I will be able to mount it given my room specs.

I want a 96" screen, I have 7'3" ceilings...The screen has to be 21" above the floor. Will this work? Is this enough info for you to determine this...I was thinking of using the chief rpa-u mount.

Thanks,

Dreem

JosephShaw

09-18-06, 02:53 PM

96" diagonal? Belive it or not, by my calculations, it will work with exactly 21" of clearance off the floor, but only if you flush mount it to the ceiling.

Numbers used to check:

7'3" = 87"
96" diagonal 16:9 screen is 49" tall.
Mitsu HC3000 offset is 1/3 total image height = 49"/3 = image projected 17" (rounded up) up from center of lens at distance/zoom enough to fill 96" diagonal screen.

87" - 17" = 70" of height.
70" - 49" for projected image = 21" from floor.

You may have lucked out.

dreemweaver

09-18-06, 03:10 PM

DanLW

09-18-06, 03:19 PM

If my question has already been answered, please forgive me for not reading through all 2,376 posts.

With the projector set up on a 16:9 screen, what is involved in re-adjusting for 4:3 other than going into 4:3 mode?

I know that going to 4:3 will illuminate 24 pixels above and below the screen for a total of 48 extra pixels. And so I would need to un-zoom the picture to not clip off any of the top or bottom.

So, with the HC3000 ceiling mounted, what effect does un-zooming have on the picture position? Does the top or bottom remain stationary as the rest of the picture re-sizes, or does the entire picture position change? If any of these are true, then I'd have to tilt the projector a little to vertically center the picture on the screen. Or does the center of the image remain in one spot thereby eliminating the need to tilt the projector?

Thanks

JosephShaw

09-18-06, 03:46 PM

As close to the ceiling would be best. I'm not familiar with that particular mount, so I don't know. I have a little bit more wiggle room to play with when it comes to ceiling height, so I made my own mount.

SixkillerNYC

09-19-06, 09:53 AM

What exactly do you mean by flush mount? I'm sure I can bolt this thing directly to my ceiling...so I will be looking for a low profile mount...will the chief rpa-u be flush mount enough? Is there a lower profile mount that would work better?

I appreciate your help!

FYI, the Chief mount leaves the lens about 4 inches from the ceiling. It was "flush enough" for me :)

I couldn't be happier with the chief mount. I attached it directly to the drywall using four molly bolts, and the fine tuning really helping it get set up perfectly.

dreemweaver

09-19-06, 10:23 AM

Well I pulled the trigger this morning....I ordered the HC3000 and the Chief RPA-96 mount which according to their site can be flush mounted adding a total of 2.5".

After downloading Mits's projector calc I will have exactly the space above and below the screen that I need. I had almost elimated this PJ as an option after hearing horror stories about mounting. I think I just happen to get lucky on my room/screen specs.

Ooohh the anticipation begins!

I was going to wait for some next gen, but got a pretty good deal from that "USA" site and just couldn't wait any longer.

Thanks for the help!

Dreem

SixkillerNYC

09-19-06, 10:58 AM

Good luck, Dreem. I hope you and up as happy as I am with this setup :)

JosephShaw

09-19-06, 11:16 AM

Congrats dream, it's a great projector.

Mr Ian B

09-19-06, 11:26 AM

Ok gang;

I guess since mine is a newer one, you have to hit the up/down arrows and the enter button at the same time rather than up/down arrows and menu button at the same time on the projector and it will pop up the bulb hrs menu. To get rid of it, hit the menu button on the projector 2x.

Thanks for all the help,

Ian B

You have to push all the buttons simultaneously. It doesn't matter how long you hold them down for. If you do it right, the service menu should pop right up instantaneously. Hitting them one after the other and holding them together won't do it. It may take a couple of tries to get it right.

dreemweaver

09-19-06, 01:22 PM

After changing bulbs, how do you reset the bulb timer?

ShagnWagon

09-20-06, 11:08 AM

Can someone recommend an affordable HDMI cable that will work at a length of around 25 feet or so? I was hoping to spend around $40-50. I was looking at the Lindy cables. Any others out there? Can I get away with spending less?

SixkillerNYC

09-20-06, 11:09 AM

ShagnWagon

09-20-06, 11:13 AM

Have you used this cable without problems?

SixkillerNYC

09-20-06, 11:16 AM

Have you used this cable without problems?

they also have cheaper versions - you can get a 25ft for $20 if you like.

And yes, I'm currently using a 35ft HDMI cable from them for my HC3000 and couldn't be happier. They seem to be very well made cables (I ordered 35ft HDMI and Component, and 50ft SVideo and Composite).

I'm not a cable expert by any means, but I'm very happy.

fleaman

09-20-06, 12:33 PM

I have a 25ft DVI cable (was about $35) working great on my Optoma H31.

Fleaman

FremontRich

09-20-06, 12:45 PM

Kosty

09-20-06, 01:25 PM

One bit of news from Cedia is that the newer shipped HC3000 models have had their grayscale adjusted so that OOTB the extra blu has been taken out and they have been setup much closer to the HC31000.

The newer HC3000 that have been shipped should have characteristics that are similar to the cine4home.de HC3100 color temperature chart .

http://www.cine4home.de/tests/projektoren/MitsuHC3100/HC3100-1100Test.htm

JosephShaw

09-20-06, 02:10 PM

Have you used this cable without problems?

I have the 35' 22AWG tin plated copper HDMI from monoprice and couldn't be happier.

Joseph

JosephShaw

09-20-06, 02:11 PM

Mr Ian B

09-20-06, 05:00 PM

I'm not having any luck with either method!! :mad:

I hear you, I was just as mad. You have to hit all 3 at the same time or it won't work. They are stacked in a line and the buttons are small for my fingers. Keep trying and when you hit all 3 at the same time, a small gray square box will pop on the left side of your screen.

Good luck,

Ian B

FremontRich

09-20-06, 07:32 PM

I hear you, I was just as mad. You have to hit all 3 at the same time or it won't work. They are stacked in a line and the buttons are small for my fingers. Keep trying and when you hit all 3 at the same time, a small gray square box will pop on the left side of your screen.

Good luck,

Ian B

How recent is your Mits? I purchased mine from Jason at AVS in August. I love this projector!!! :D But the inability to view my lamp hours is driving me crazy!! :mad:

JosephShaw

09-20-06, 10:48 PM

Mr Ian B

09-20-06, 11:28 PM

How recent is your Mits? I purchased mine from Jason at AVS in August. I love this projector!!! :D But the inability to view my lamp hours is driving me crazy!! :mad:

I got it on Aug 13th of this year at BB with a price match and 12% discount.

Ian B

JosephShaw

09-20-06, 11:46 PM

I got it on Aug 13th of this year at BB with a price match and 12% discount.

Ian B

I got mine on Labor Day at BB under the same circumstances, as well. My software version is 4.x. I'd check again, but the projector has been boxed back up while we paint the theater.

ShagnWagon

09-21-06, 09:05 AM

Is anyone using an HDMI switcher with their HC3000? Any issues from doing so? I was looking at the swtichers on Monoprice...

floridapoolboy

09-21-06, 09:25 AM

JosephShaw

09-21-06, 09:33 AM

How recent is your Mits? I purchased mine from Jason at AVS in August. I love this projector!!! :D But the inability to view my lamp hours is driving me crazy!! :mad:

If it makes you feel any better, I have to hit all three of them at the same time a couple of times before it comes up.

fleaman

09-21-06, 03:05 PM

After 1 1/2 happy years with my H31 I'm planning on upgrading, and the recent price drop on the Mitsu has me tempted. Then I read about the new Optoma HD70, and now I'm confused! The Mitsu has great reviews, and is now way below it's original price, but the Optoma is STILL $500 less, and is getting it's own great reviews. Anyone seen both, for comparison? Would the HC3000 give that much more to be worth the extra cost? What to do, what to do...

The HD70 is a cheaper/lower model PJ than the HD72 (it's basically a H27 with a 720p chip).

The HC3000 outperforms the HD72.

The HC3000 should have no problem throwing a better pic than the HD70, shouldn't even break sweat.

Fleaman

randyox

09-22-06, 04:34 PM

Nasty N8

09-22-06, 05:35 PM

Yahooooo...I just picked up my HC3000 projector! I can hardly wait to get home and set it up! I spent last night getting my family room ready for the new projector and I just walked out of Best Buy with the last one they had. I called my wife and told her I have it and can't wait to get home and get it set up and her reply was, "Honey, how about you take me out to a movie tonight? We haven't done anything for a couple of weeks....." AAARRRRGGGGGGGG!!!!!!!!!
Why don't women understand??? At any rate....I can't wait to get it set up and watch some great football this weekend!!!!

Take her to a movie at home. My fianc'e would rather stay home then go to the movies. She always says "why would I want to pay more than the cost to buy the DVD and have inferior sound and quality."

Nate

DaGamePimp

09-22-06, 06:16 PM

Yahooooo...I just picked up my HC3000 projector! I can hardly wait to get home and set it up! I spent last night getting my family room ready for the new projector and I just walked out of Best Buy with the last one they had. I called my wife and told her I have it and can't wait to get home and get it set up and her reply was, "Honey, how about you take me out to a movie tonight? We haven't done anything for a couple of weeks....." AAARRRRGGGGGGGG!!!!!!!!!
Why don't women understand??? At any rate....I can't wait to get it set up and watch some great football this weekend!!!!

OUCH , remember a little thing called WAF ;) .

To that I would say that we as men need to understand as well ;) . Take her out and pay attention to her , the projector will be there when you get back . If you want your wife to accept the new (PJ) relationship then by all means do not make her take the back seat . I have approached my wife this way for 14 years and now she loves HT just as much as I do :D .

Best Wishes ,
---- Jason

dreemweaver

09-23-06, 12:00 PM

I got my hc3000 and ceiling mounted it last night. Currently I am projecting on my wall but I have a sheet of Wilsonart Designer White on it's way. For you fellow hc3000 owners; Are projecting on a 15x9 screen or a 16x9 screen?

The vast majority of my viewing will be HighDef or DVD's but I may end up using this for the occasional computer use as well.

I am heavily leaning toward the 16x9 screen but was looking for opinions.

Thanks,

Dreem

TVJon

09-23-06, 04:06 PM

Congrats, dreemweaver, which mount are you using?

TVJon

maingon

09-23-06, 10:46 PM

Dave Mack

09-23-06, 10:51 PM

Congrats, Dreem

I'm using an optoma graywolf 92" 16x9 screen. There is a bit of extra projection...

randyox

09-23-06, 11:37 PM

WOW!!! What an awesome 24 hours!!! I got my projector yesterday. I went to JoAnn's fabric store and they had a sale on blackout material so I was able to get 9 yards for $7.00!!! When I got home, my wife must have seen my excitement and when I told her I would put the screen up Saturday and that I would take her to a movie she said no. She said that she wanted to see what I was so excited about. When I told her that my theater could wait she again said no. She said that if I would put up the blackout material and get the projector hooked up we could just stay home and watch a movie. When I asked her if she was sure she smiled and said that she was excited to see how good it would look. To make a longer story short, I put up the screen, got the projector set up, she came home with "Mr and Mrs Smith" (the movie) and we had an awesome night!!! She loved the picture and so did I!!! We just sat and snuggled and had a blast!!! Afterwards we watched some tv shows and started to plan our first party around our new home theater room!!! I must say, I am blown away by how good the picture looks. My wife just sat there and said she couldn't believe how awesome it was. She started talking about how wonderful it will be during the holidays to have all the kids and grandkids over for Christmas movies. Thanks for all the posts regarding this projector. I am definately glad we made the decision to go with this projector!!! Now we just need to get some good hi def sources to watch....

dreemweaver

09-24-06, 12:28 AM

Congrats, dreemweaver, which mount are you using?

TVJon

Chief RPA-096, flush mounted. This puts the projector down an additional 2.5-2.75 inches from the ceiling. The universal stated something like 4-4.5. With my 7'3" ceilings every inch helped.

fleaman

09-24-06, 01:41 PM

I am wondering Our ceiling a dropped ceiling and is 93" inches high. We are going with a 9'2 inch. screen. Is there a exact height that the image would be projected at? Just wondering if this projector would work in our room

Go to this Mitsubishi link:

http://www.mitsubishi-presentations...rs/HC3000U.html

Click the Resources tab and download the throw calculator.

Fleaman

FremontRich

09-24-06, 02:05 PM

maingon

09-24-06, 02:32 PM

with this projector and if you have a ceiling mount how high is your screen off the floor?

moogh

09-24-06, 02:44 PM

Ahem! I would just like to point out that there are some women out here who are also into HT (and I'm not talking hormone replacement). Like me, for example.

It's a bit of a bummer trying to buy a projector when you're asking about adaptive irises, calibration options and screen gain and the sales guy is smiling condescendingly and telling you that the Mits should be fine out of the box to watch Sex and the City. Which I hate.

Anyways, I know most of you are highly enlightened people and it's been a joy to read all of the stuff on this thread. I'm enjoying my Mitsubishi as much as when I first got it (despite the first twitches of upgraditis after hearing about the 3100). The picture is a real pleasure, especially as I upgraded from a Sony CPJ 200.

Was that a snort of laughter I heard?

fleaman

09-24-06, 03:05 PM

with this projector and if you have a ceiling mount how high is your screen off the floor?

maingon,

It varies depending on screen size, ceiling height, etc. The projector throw calculator I mentioned in my previous post will answer your question exactly.

Fleaman

maingon

09-24-06, 04:11 PM

i did it, just wondering what others came out to, the calculator for me said 26.3 inches off the ground, thats if the projector mount pole is 4 inches

fleaman

09-24-06, 05:31 PM

i did it, just wondering what others came out to, the calculator for me said 26.3 inches off the ground, thats if the projector mount pole is 4 inches

If they input the exact same #'s as you did, it should come out to exactly 26.3" off the ground.

What exactly is your question? You can put any set-up you can imagine into that calculator and it will give you the answer to your question(s) :confused:

Fleaman

FremontRich

09-24-06, 05:51 PM

I've connected my computer to my Mits and although I've been able to project TV programs on my screen I'm getting short and fat images on my screen. I've played around with the aspect ration but I'm not having any success in getting the images correctly proportioned. What am I doing wrong?

Oops! I forgot to add that I'm using the HDMI input on my Mits and my video card is an ATI AIW 7500 with DVI out.

Kipp Jones

09-24-06, 11:19 PM

JosephShaw

09-25-06, 01:26 AM

Ahem! I would just like to point out that there are some women out here who are also into HT (and I'm not talking hormone replacement). Like me, for example.

I've wanted a dedicated theater for over 9 years now, and we moved into a house that has the space for it last Aprile. Right now my wife is the one currently pushing this project through. This is also the same woman who says "Anything with a screen less than 60" isn't worth watching."

I guess I'd be happy if she weren't working me like a savage dog to get the theater up and running. It's getting to where I enjoy the workweek more than my weekends. :eek:

Mr Ian B

09-26-06, 11:09 PM

Today I got some lens cleaning solution pack with cleaner and wipes. I went over the lens with the moisted wipe after applying solution to the wipe. It appears to have cleaned the lens from the particles/dust on the lens. Unfortunately, the solution has left a cloudy film over the lens. It does not affect the picture from what I can tell but, what can I use to get rid of it or did I just damaged the lens?

Any help is appreciated,

Thanks,

Ian B

Federico

09-27-06, 12:23 AM

Mr Ian B

09-27-06, 11:43 AM

http://www.amazon.com/Kodak-Lens-Cleaning-Tissue-Sheets/dp/B0000AQJ5Z
You can use isopropyl alcohol.
Start in the center of the lense making an spiral to the outside. Repeat until it is clean. Be gently

Federico

Thanks for the info Federico. I will try and pick it up locally the paper and alcohol and give it a try. I will post later tonight my results.

Ian B

mech

09-27-06, 12:44 PM

Thanks for the info Federico. I will try and pick it up locally the paper and alcohol and give it a try. I will post later tonight my results.

Ian B
Make sure that it is isopropyl alcohol and not rubbing alcohol. You probably already know this but some folks do confuse the two.

mech

Mr Ian B

09-27-06, 03:39 PM

Make sure that it is isopropyl alcohol and not rubbing alcohol. You probably already know this but some folks do confuse the two.

mech

Thanks Federico and Mech. I picked it up a while ago and tried it. I did make sure it was the isopropyl as Federico stated. It worked like a champ and the lens is clear as when I first got the projector. Got to love this forum for the knowledge and quick responses.

Thanks again,

Ian B

cgmoore

09-30-06, 12:13 PM

I have a GeForce 5200 DVI out via DVI to HDMI converter running to my 3000. I cannot get it to display the PC. Via the VGA it works fine. I am sending 1280x720 and 1024x768 without issue VGA. What is working for you guys?

I have a nvidia 7800GS (the agp version) dvi out to the HDMI via a converter cable and it displays 1280x720 perfectly. VGA worked OK for 1280x720, but the signal tracking was pretty bad.

I could never get it to display any other resolution (even the native wxga) without the projector doing some really horrible scaling.

I also tried to do a "resolution within a resolution" in powerstrip to make the windows desktop fit my screen perfectly and ran into the same horrible scaling issues.

Is your card outputting digital signal on the DVI? I would think that would be the default, but perhaps not.

Mr Ian B

10-05-06, 09:33 AM

What's the correct aspect ratio to set this projector at for movies? I had it set to 16x9 but, last night I noticed that by putting it on REAL, I get a bit more picture on dvds. Does putting it on REAL degrade the picture quality?

Thanks,

Ian B

ShagnWagon

10-11-06, 11:06 AM

randyox

10-12-06, 03:53 PM

Just signed up with Dishnetwork and have HD programming and all I can say is WOW!!! Once more I am blown away by what this projector can do. In fact when I was having my satellite installed, the installer couldn't believe what an incredible picture the Mitsubishi put out. He said he has hooked up a few HD systems, but none could compare to the picture the Mitsubishi put out. My wife is more than pleased by how great it looks (except for the fact that while watching CSI last night she was grossed out and left the room for a while...) When we watched Chronicles of Narnia, my 16 year old son said he thought it looked better than it did when we went and saw it at the cineplex. We also took in a little football on NFLHD and all I could do was grin! :D WOW...thanks again to all of you on the forum for you feedback...especially DaGamePimp! The information has been invaluable!!! Can't wait to get home tonight and watch some HD football on ESPN!!! :p

dtsfanoh

10-12-06, 04:03 PM

Kosty

10-13-06, 11:17 PM

Just confirmed that the late production models of the HC3000 had their out of the box greyscale adjusted to take out some of the excess blue that the earlier models exhibited. Greyscale should be more like the HC3100 that are not being shipped to the USA.

That should make this PJ even more of a bargin as the OOTB greyscale should be more accurate.

ShagnWagon

10-13-06, 11:29 PM

Whats the disadvantage of using the VGA connection over the DVI connection from my PC? Is there any picture degradation when using vga?

What kind of VGA cable do I need? M/M, M/F?

DaGamePimp

10-14-06, 03:13 AM

Whats the disadvantage of using the VGA connection over the DVI connection from my PC? Is there any picture degradation when using vga?

What kind of VGA cable do I need? M/M, M/F?

Don't use VGA for PC use , it's very ugly :( . Keep it Digital and pixel map it , DVI to HDMI .

---- Jason

DaGamePimp

10-14-06, 03:19 AM

DaGamePimp

10-14-06, 03:23 AM

I just got my Avia disc yesterday and I'm ready to tweak the colors with the filters they provide, but I don't know which settings to change to calibrate. There is contrast and brightness for Red, Green, and Blue. Which do I use?

Use Contrast / Brightness / Color / Tint / Sharpness . Avoid the RGB controls as these alter your greyscale and should not be adjusted unless you know how to use them (along with calibration gear) ;) .

Be sure to Turn BC off and set Gamma to Cinema (this should get you going in the right direction) ;) .

------ Jason

ShagnWagon

10-14-06, 01:16 PM

DaGamePimp

10-14-06, 01:32 PM

I'm having problems with my DVI output. I just got a new video board and I can't get things working via DVI. My old board worked perfectly...

If I try to start my PC up with only the DVI hooked up, the computer won't even load up...

Have you tried the DVI out on different displays or using a different cable ?

Need to verify that the Video card is actually the problem (which it probably is but always helps to track it down first) ;) .

---- Jason

ShagnWagon

10-14-06, 07:23 PM

I can try a different cable, but I don't have any other DVI displays. My setup worked fine until I swapped video boards...

foxdvd

10-15-06, 01:39 AM

mobius

10-15-06, 05:07 AM

Sorry if this has been asked before, but how are people connecting their Xbox 360 to this Mitsu? Is component or VGA the preferred method of displaying the 360 with this PJ? Currently I'm using the VGA cable with my 4805, and I think the picture looks good, but I'm jonesing for some 720p gaming love. :D

Kosty

10-16-06, 10:53 AM

Any idea how we would know which models would have this?MAybe from the model firmware or serial number? I just got a new HC3000 to install in my home theater room. I'll check the firmware today.

Kosty

10-16-06, 10:55 AM

Any idea how we would know which models would have this? HC3000s have been selling pretty well so any recent shipments should have this running change. I was told the adjustment happened several month s ago and has been applied to any new models received through normal distribution.

talon95

10-21-06, 12:37 PM

HC3000s have been selling pretty well so any recent shipments should have this running change. I was told the adjustment happened several month s ago and has been applied to any new models received through normal distribution.

It would be nice to verify this, not that I'm really doubting you, just be nice to have confirmation before committing to buying one. Not sure how to do so though. Maybe one of the review sites will do a comparison or something.

Dave G.

mjondal

10-23-06, 10:26 AM

I just ordered a Mits 3000 last week from the pros listed on the mits website under buy now. It was drop shipped directly from mits and looks simply awesome ootb with upscaled 1080i dvd. Color temp has high/medium instead of 6500 etc. The freinds who helped me mount it has the IN76 and he said the Mits HC3000 looked better than his Infocus out the box and the overscan adj.

My 3 year old Mits 55 inch CRT RPTV's HD with firewire has been my reference HDTV display that very few displays have matched in pq. The MIts HC 3000 has atleast as good pq, best I've seen from a pj and blew away my old Sony D50 pj. Maybe some of the Best home theater dollars I've ever spent.

SixkillerNYC

10-23-06, 10:28 AM

Congrats, mjondal. Welcome to the club :)

It's nice to hear more experiences of this projector looking good ootb. It seems Mits did make a significant adjustment.

JosephShaw

10-23-06, 10:48 AM

Don't use REAL , it does degrade the image quality ;) .

------- Jason

How so?

dthibode

10-23-06, 11:48 AM

I bought a used hc3000 (450 hours on it) and it should show up tomorrow. The only downside is my HDA1 hasn't arrived yet! Argh. I appreciate the valuable info in this thread and look forward to "joining the club" so to speak. Thanks, Dale

tomasz

10-23-06, 11:54 AM

How would this PJ compare to Sanyo Z5. I'm not sure which one to get? :confused:

hauer

10-23-06, 01:25 PM

It's a quandary. The Mit 3000 has great blacks so say the reviews. And like all dlp's has a specific setup ritual. I'm waiting as are others for projector reviews' Z5 report. Prices for each are comparable and neither pj is bright so ambient light will always be a factor. I have a non-light controlled living room myself. Both pj's provide stellar images we as new owners will love. So we will be happy with either box. But as you said which one?

richlo

10-23-06, 03:08 PM

Im getting mine from Jason here at AVS, hopefully by the end of this week....with the price break AVS is giving for these...IM ALL OVER IT...I was not sure if I should go for the IN76, the AX100 or this..Id figure for the price, I can always still come out ahead of the IN76 and AX100 if I send it to get calibrate...

btw..its bright enough for me...I saw it at a place that had some lights on and it was plenty bright for me..

One thing, I thought I saw on the Mits3000u manual that color and tint is not available if using HDMI..is this correct??Im hoping I read it wrong

Dave Mack

10-23-06, 03:23 PM

The Mits is VERY bright...!

DaGamePimp

10-23-06, 03:38 PM

How so?

Because it does not map , uses Overscan .

------ Jason

DaGamePimp

10-23-06, 03:39 PM

One thing, I thought I saw on the Mits3000u manual that color and tint is not available if using HDMI..is this correct??Im hoping I read it wrong

Correct , you cannot adjust Color Saturation and Tint/Hue when using HDMI on the HC3000 .

------- Jason

richlo

10-23-06, 04:44 PM

Correct , you cannot adjust Color Saturation and Tint/Hue when using HDMI on the HC3000 .

------- Jason

I just might have to cancel my order then..I think its BS not to have that..unless they are spot on already.

talon95

10-23-06, 05:44 PM

I just might have to cancel my order then..I think its BS not to have that..unless they are spot on already.

I think that's typical of digital connections. Maybe not all, but I think a lot of displays work that way. You get those adjustements on analog inputs, but not digital.

Dave G.

DaGamePimp

10-23-06, 06:33 PM

krasmuzik

10-23-06, 06:50 PM

Correct , by HDMI spec those adjustments are not supposed to be required but I agree that it would be nice to have them (many digital displays block those controls via HDMI) . Best way to combat that is to have the unit ISF'd and use a source that has those adjustments available ( dvd player , scaler , HTPC , etc. ) .

------ Jason

And you will not want it when they put it back in. To implement controls on HDMI or DVI RGB sources - they actually convert it back to YCbCr to adjust it - then back to RGB again. Which gives marketers yet another opportunity to screw with the conversion - and then you need further color decoder adjustment access to put things right. And I just did a calibration review where this very thing was done on the RGB input - tint, color, redpush - all wrong!

So you can have red push from your source - and red push on your display now :mad: Not what you want when RGB is currently limited to 8bits - and should not be adjusted. It was supposed to be a pure panel drive input with no decoding.

Both of these are antiquated controls from analog TV/VCR composite days - that we will be stuck with forever because someone said they wanted it back. Once it is there in one place it is needed to fix what someone else screwed up in another place.

Which reminds me - did you check your AVIA Red filter for red push from your Toshiba HDVD?

richlo

10-23-06, 07:45 PM

Which reminds me - did you check your AVIA Red filter for red push from your Toshiba HDVD?

Everytime I hear the word REDPUSH..reminds me of Mitsubishi CRTS right off the back -until they added those parameters in later models (somewhat)..I had to do the I2C hack to change the eeprom and load the changes back to the Mits to remove their serious redpush on all inputs...Eventually I had CraigM (now retired) calibrate my Mits years ago, and even till this day - I will have a hard time letting it go because its still good, just a bit antiquated.

The Oppo that I will be getting has COLOR adjustment but I am not sure if Tint. I do have a DVD player that does color and tint..

krasmuzik

10-23-06, 10:06 PM

The latest Oppos firmware was correct on tint - previous firmwares were really screwy.

I have a Panny tube TV with severe red push when in warm greyscale - but I cannot stand to watch blue greyscale so I tolerate it. Inadequate service menu - never have calibrated it.

Red push can be compensated for by reducing color at the expensive of proper color levels if you don't have proper color decoding. Usually tint is the missing control rather than color. There is no inherent reason for tint on analog component signal even - the color differences are already separated and the phase angle and axis defined by definition. The only reason for it is to screw with it. Which of course is the first thing marketing does when they get the control put back in - can't have their video looking like everyone elses - different is "better".

DaGamePimp

10-23-06, 10:17 PM

Well yeah these controls should not be needed but as we know all HDMI outputs are not created equal (even though they are supposed to be by spec) .

It's rough going when you don't have an ISF'd display and trying to caibrate an HDMI source but have no control over the color at all (very easy to make things worse with those RGB Gain/Bias controls if you don't have calibration gear and a trained eye) .

In a perfect world the specs would be exact on all HDMI devices but we all know how the perfect world theory goes ... ;) .

kras ,

--- I no longer have the Red/Green color filters , just the small Blue one and the colorfacts glasses that you handed out ;) . Looks like I need to have a meet to cure my sun burned Batman :D .

-------- Jason

krasmuzik

10-23-06, 10:23 PM

My AVIA PRO filters are on loan - real curious to see if it is the Toshiba or Mitsu fault.

If it is the Toshiba then double whammy for anyone with a red pushed display. If the Mitsu still screwed because no video adjustments!

Does the Mitsu GB gain go all off like the SP4805 did? Then you don't need the filters. Just be sure to write down where the settings are before you do it!

ShagnWagon

10-24-06, 12:21 PM

Are there any guides to calibrating the HC3000? I'm having a hard time getting all the sttings correct on my HTPC because of all the interactions between my projector, dvd player software, and nVidia graphics settings.

White and black are being clipped. The only way to resolve this issue is to mess with the brightness and contrast settings on either the dvd software settings or the nVidia settings. I seem to be able to do that at any given time, but later the correct settings seem to change.

As far as setting the colors appropriately, forget about it. I can't seem to get it anywhere near close. I'm trying to use AVIA to set the blue, but I can't ever get the values of blue close enough. I'm supposed to use the blue contrast setting to do this correct?

krasmuzik

10-24-06, 02:54 PM

Very difficult if you don't have a reference video generator. Easy Cheap way - grey out your brightness/contrast so it is obviously washed out to grey whites and blacks. - then adjust upstream until you can see it clipping. Then work downstream to calibrate brightness/contrast correctly

The RGB adjustments are for adjusting your greyscale - not for adjusting your video decoders. Use color/tint to adjust your video decoder. You have the same stream problem with no way around it other than finding out reference settings when it comes to color/tint in the chain.

The color control is balancing blue level to be the same amount of blue as in white - thus the filter shows a change. The Blue gain is changing amount of blue in blue AND white - thus nothing is seen different in the filter.

Color control changes the balance of overall color to white - you are changing the actual balance of each of RGB in white in the RGB menu. greyscale is the paper - the video is the water colors.

ShagnWagon

10-24-06, 03:28 PM

but since I'm using DVI/HDMI I cannot adjust the color and tint right? Those options are not available. So how do I calibrate color?

krasmuzik

10-24-06, 03:34 PM

Your HTPC DVD player likely has those controls. If you use the VMR9 you are better off than using overlay - and if you load ffdshow it may have some more finetuning filters. But every HTPC config is different - maybe you are similar to DaHTPCPimp (DaGamePimp) and maybe he can help - or maybe not!

Many using the HTPC don't have a calibrated display - and are compensating (incorrectly) on the HTPC - so often so called "reference" setttings from an HTPC "guru" are not even close to being correct.

Even once you get your video aligned with the filters - your colors are still not correct - because the greyscale is not correct.

ShagnWagon

10-24-06, 04:23 PM

How do I use VMR9?

Kosty

10-24-06, 05:26 PM

The last few HC3000s I have seen including the one I am mounting in my new home theater room seem to have the greyscale adjusted as cine4home.de described for the HD3100. They seem to be better OOTB than the previous earlier production boxes.

Still waiting for some time on my bulb before really being able to confirm, but its looks different (better) than previous boxes I have seen. Its like the running change did happen.

krasmuzik

10-24-06, 07:25 PM

Is yours with the "low' color temp label rather than '6500K' label?

ShagnWagon

10-25-06, 11:11 AM

kosha

10-25-06, 11:54 AM

The last few HC3000s I have seen including the one I am mounting in my new home theater room seem to have the greyscale adjusted as cine4home.de described for the HD3100. They seem to be better OOTB than the previous earlier production boxes.

Is it possible to upgrade the firmware without having to send it to the manufacturer?

dreemweaver

10-25-06, 11:57 AM

Federico

10-25-06, 12:00 PM

Kras, the color temp in my new HC3000 is Mid instead of 6500. Is this the new series you are talking about?

Federico

Federico

10-25-06, 01:20 PM

dreemweaver, this projector is very quiet even in high mode lamp. Try it in high mode lamp so the fan runs faster for a moment and then back to low mode lamp. Is it better now?

Federico

3Aims

10-25-06, 02:34 PM

I have had the 3000 for a few weeks now and am extremely happy with the PQ. Initially I noted how quiet I thought this PJ was but recently that is all I seem to hear. It seems it has gotten considerably louder after the initial 60-70 hours.

I currently run the PJ in low lamp mode w/ BC on. The sound is almost a mid to high pitch noice, initially I could barely hear the fan. Is this normal or something I should be contacting Mits. about? Maybe I have just become more conscious of the noise but I really don't think so. It is even audible while watching a movie w/ the volume up to a normal listening level.

I just bought another HC3000 and this one seems different from my last one. The picture is much better out of the box. However, this one has a whine noise (mid level) over and above the fan noise. My first HC3000 just had a fan noise which was fine even in Standard mode. This one has an added whine that cuts through my stereo when watching HD and DVDs. I do like the color adjustments, but the whine has got to go.

richlo

10-25-06, 03:13 PM

This one has an added whine that cuts through my stereo when watching HD and DVDs. I do like the color adjustments, but the whine has got to go.

when you say COLOR ADJUSTMENTS, what do you mean by that, was it not on the previous release??

richlo

10-25-06, 03:17 PM

Kras, you said that the blue, red, green brightness/contrast settings are to adjust the greyscale... Is that what the Avia pattern that has columns of red, green, and blue in various percentages is for? If not, is there any way to tell if your level of grey is set to a near proper level?

No...the GREYSCALE (black and white boxes in AVIA) are what the Blue, red, green brightness and constrast settings are for. A proper greyscale will not show color - only black when black box shows and white when white box shows..and grey bar in the middle (the combination of both black and white)

The color bars are for COLOR (RGB) and the TINt (Cyan, Yellow, etc) controls.

Lindahl

10-25-06, 03:57 PM

I've seen the HC3000U lumen numbers for calibration in low lamp mode everywhere (~400 closed, ~550 open), but none for high lamp mode. In some situations, especially as the lamp dims, I'll be using high lamp mode, but I want to know if it has enough lumens in this mode before I buy. So, when switched to high lamp mode, what calibrated lumens are you seeing? Secondly, and I assume so, can it be calibrated as accurately in high lamp mode? Right now, this is the only show stopper I have between choosing the HD1000U and the HC3000U. My gut says that the lumens should be pretty darn close once both units are calibrated and the HC3000 is in high lamp with open iris, but I don't know.

Also, I've read through the manual, and despite what people have said here, it appears it can do scaling for 2.35 CH setups. However, the setup isn't very intuitive and could have been easily overlooked. It requires using the SCREEN SIZE option, not the ASPECT option. Can anyone verify this? I believe this is what HogPilot is doing with the HD1000U, and the manual is almost identical in this respect.

HC3000U:

SCREEN SIZE
You can keep the image display area within the screen by setting SCREEN SIZE in the INSTALLATION menu according to the size of the actual screen.
When setting SCREEN SIZE to CINEMA SCOPE(2.35:1):
• CinemaScope size movies are projected in the full screen.
• Images of Vista size are projected with horizontal size squeezed.
• When ASPECT in the FEATURE menu is set to AUTO and 480p, 720p, or 1080i signal is input, the part for displaying subtitles is not projected.

HD1000U:

SCREEN SIZE
You can keep the image display area within the screen by setting SCREEN SIZE in the IMAGE menu according to the size of the actual screen.
When setting SCREEN SIZE to CINEMA SCOPE(2.35:1):
• CinemaScope size movies are projected in the full screen.
• Set ASPECT in the FEATURE menu to 16:9 when displaying Vista-size images. In this case, they are squeezed horizontally.
• When ASPECT in the FEATURE menu is set to AUTO and 480p, 720p, or 1080i signal is input, the part for displaying subtitles is not projected.

It seems the operation is identical, even though the manual is different. The HC3000U manual seems to be omitting how to get Vista images squeezed, by setting ASPECT to 16:9, but I'd be surprised if it didn't work.

Perhaps either DaGamePimp or Kras can answer, since they seem to have the most experience with this projector?

Thanks!

Dave Mack

10-25-06, 04:02 PM

I gotta tell ya, we watch our in low lamp mode with the iris closed on a grey screen and it is PLENTY bright.

Federico

10-25-06, 04:08 PM

40xbr700_Owner, I used to have one of the old series HC3000 and now I have the new one and I have not heard any difference in the noise. When the projector starts I can hear the color wheel starting but it disappears almost inmediately.
The grey balance out of the box is better than the old one, but still it is much better once it is calibrated.

DaGamePimp

10-25-06, 05:01 PM

I've seen the HC3000U lumen numbers for calibration in low lamp mode everywhere (~400 closed, ~550 open), but none for high lamp mode. In some situations, especially as the lamp dims, I'll be using high lamp mode, but I want to know if it has enough lumens in this mode before I buy. So, when switched to high lamp mode, what calibrated lumens are you seeing? Secondly, and I assume so, can it be calibrated as accurately in high lamp mode? Right now, this is the only show stopper I have between choosing the HD1000U and the HC3000U. My gut says that the lumens should be pretty darn close once both units are calibrated and the HC3000 is in high lamp with open iris, but I don't know.

Also, I've read through the manual, and despite what people have said here, it appears it can do scaling for 2.35 CH setups. However, the setup isn't very intuitive and could have been easily overlooked. It requires using the SCREEN SIZE option, not the ASPECT option. Can anyone verify this? I believe this is what HogPilot is doing with the HD1000U, and the manual is almost identical in this respect.

HC3000U:

HD1000U:

It seems the operation is identical, even though the manual is different. The HC3000U manual seems to be omitting how to get Vista images squeezed, by setting ASPECT to 16:9, but I'd be surprised if it didn't work.

Perhaps either DaGamePimp or Kras can answer, since they seem to have the most experience with this projector?

Thanks!

There is no way to know for sure about the lumen output between the HD1000 and the HC3000 until some direct comparisons have been made but I would still expect the HD1000 to be brighter due to the white segment . However I am also willing to bet that the HC3000 in standard lamp mode with open iris is not much less than the HD1000 (heck it could even be brighter once both calibrated to D65 - see the HD70 threads as to how that might be possible) .

The 2.35 setting on the HC3000 does compression (for playback sources than can do the anamorphic stretch) but it does not do the stretch itself ;) . So you are required to have a source that does the stretch and then you could use an anamorphic lens (some dvd players do this , many scalers do this and HTPC's can do it , the Toshiba HD DVD players currently do not do it) .

--------- Jason

Lindahl

10-25-06, 05:50 PM

The 2.35 setting on the HC3000 does compression.

Are you very sure?

When ASPECT in the FEATURE menu is set to AUTO and 480p, 720p, or 1080i signal is input, the part for displaying subtitles is not projected.

"part for displaying subtitles is not projected" - doesn't this mean that a vertical stretch is performed? See the 2.35 scaled image in the attached picture. This is the only way I can fathom that the image would be manipulated such that "the part for displaying subtitles is not projected", unless, it is not stretched the full 1.33 (only partially stretched). I'm not sure what you mean by compression (which doesn't make sense in the above context), unless you mean the 16:9 mode for fixed-lens installations (see 16:9 scaled image in the attached picture):

Set ASPECT in the FEATURE menu to 16:9 when displaying Vista-size images. In this case, they are squeezed horizontally.

This is the mode you'd use for normal 16:9 movies with the lens still in place.

HogPilot, have you tested this out yet?

DaGamePimp

10-25-06, 06:28 PM

Yes I am sure , it compresses any signal down to 2.35 . So you can send a 1.78 signal and compress it to 2.35 when using the 2.35 and Auto settings . So technically you can use a Cinemascope screen with the HC3000 but you are giving up resolution vs. using the entire panel with an anamorphic lens .

Oh and keep in mind that when it does this 2.35/Auto mode it is cropping as well so you lose some of the image top & bottom .

The HC3000 does not do anamorphic stretch all by itself ;) .

It makes sense for those sources that can send the anamorphic signal out stretched and let the display do the compression . But the HC3000 cannot be used with an anamorphic lens unless you have a source/scaler that does the proper stretch ( I have done the stretch with my HTPC even though I do not have the anamorphic lens ) . If toshiba would add this feature to the HD DVD players then I would get a lens .

** EDIT : it is possible that Mitsu could add this feature with different firmware **

--------- Jason

dreemweaver

10-25-06, 06:34 PM

I just bought another HC3000 and this one seems different from my last one. The picture is much better out of the box. However, this one has a whine noise (mid level) over and above the fan noise. My first HC3000 just had a fan noise which was fine even in Standard mode. This one has an added whine that cuts through my stereo when watching HD and DVDs. I do like the color adjustments, but the whine has got to go.

I think this is exactly what I am hearing. I changed to standard mode and could hear the difference in fan noise which is distinctly different from this humming or whine noise. It is getting VERY annoying. I think I may contact Mits on this.

I also had a disturbing problem when I started the PJ up to test this and that was; when I turned the PJ on it started out fine and then a loud constant beep and the two green lights on the top turned off and it changed back to red. I turned it on again and everything appears normal....save for the humming/whining.

This has become my primary display device and can't imagine having to go without if I have to send it in to be serviced. Hopefully I can place a deposit w/ a CC and have them refund it when I return the defective unit.

Lindahl

10-25-06, 07:09 PM

krasmuzik

10-25-06, 11:10 PM

ShagnWagon

10-26-06, 10:46 AM

No...the GREYSCALE (black and white boxes in AVIA) are what the Blue, red, green brightness and constrast settings are for. A proper greyscale will not show color - only black when black box shows and white when white box shows..and grey bar in the middle (the combination of both black and white)

The color bars are for COLOR (RGB) and the TINt (Cyan, Yellow, etc) controls.

I thought maybe the columns of color were to help you set the proper amount rgb for the greyscale. Thanks for the clarification.

krasmuzik

10-26-06, 03:21 PM

Common mistake - people see RGB bars and RGB controls and make the connection even though none exists!

HogPilot

10-26-06, 05:55 PM

Lindahl,

I got your PM - much to my chagrin after receiving my HD1000U, the 2.35:1 mode on there is not in fact for use with an anamorphic lens. Of course, reading the user's manual I was able to determine that it didn't have a scaling mode that would perform the stretch for use with a lens, but from the way it's phrased in the manual it looked like that the SCREEN SIZE setting would accomplish this.

Unfortunately for me, DaGamePimp is right - 2.35:1 mode compresses the image. As things stand right now I'm deciding whether or not to drop the cash on a VP30 to perform the scaling, or to return the HD1000U and wait for the HD73, which should have the standard Optoma LBX mode that performs the required stretch. Obviously the HD73 would be cheaper and project a better image, but having a VP30 would give me the ability to control the image I'm sending to my PJ and perform good de-interlacing on all sources, instead of just relying on my Oppo 971 for DVD de-interlacing.

I will say that, in my limited viewing, the HD1000U does seem to throw a very nice image and, for the money, is a great deal. It's just not great for a 2.35:1 CH setup if you don't already have an external scaler.

Lindahl

10-26-06, 06:52 PM

Sorry to hear that, I was really looking forward to going with a Mits projector. I hope the HD73 works out for you. I don't intend on waiting too long for 1080p so I'll probably be leaning towards the HD70 once I hear more good reports about the wheel mod. Who knows, though. If the HD73 drops decently below MSRP before the new year, I may just join you. I'll have to see about the lumens though with my SMX screen (1.16 gain).

rboster

10-28-06, 12:31 PM

Okay, I've tried all the appropriate sources but I don't think I have a complete handle of projector placement in the relation from the ceiling to screen. I am trying to help a friend with an existing set up....

He's using a 110" diag. screen. The top of the screen material is 17 inches from the ceiling. The current proj. mount is 14 ft from the screen. So I know we are fine from a throw stand point. But where does the project lens have to line up vs the screen. If I understand the Mits cal. correctly, it appears to be 31 inches or dead center the screen. That makes sense, but my spidey sense tells me that 95% of ceiling mounted projectors are NOT mounted center to the screen....... but like my LCD a couple of inches about or below the top of the screen material. Without lens shift, I know we have to be accurate to avoid resorting to keystone correction.

So what am I missing? Again sorry, this should be something that I could figure out myself...but helping a friend...I want to limit trial and error and go into the mounting with a complete understanding of what I am dealing with.

Ron

PS: He is using a Chief mount that allows for allot of flexability with the column exten.

CT_Wiebe

10-28-06, 10:28 PM

According to the HC3000 Users Guide (manual), pages 10-12, the offset is about 34.5% of the screen height. You can download the manual from here: http://www.mitsubishi-hometheater.com/hc3000u.asp.

Your 110" screen is 54" high (viewable area). Therefore the center of the lens (ceiling mounted) has to be 54" x 0.345 = 18.6" above the top of the screen viewing top edge. Therefore, your screen is too high by over 1.6" (you need 18.6" + the distance of the center of the lens to the ceiling -- at least 5" or so = about 23.6").

richlo

10-29-06, 12:57 PM

Well I am mostly up and running with my new HC3000u , the offset is not bad at all and I actually wish is was a bit more . With 8' ceilings and a 4" drop on the mount the bottom of my 84" diagonal screen is about 34 inches off the floor (see pic) . I guess I need to move up to a bigger screen now :D .

http://home.comcast.net/~jlcburg3/wsb/media/19852/graphic_org_pub.jpg

---------- Jason

Jason-

What are you using to cover your cables on the ceiling..I need to do a similar thing..your cables look somewhat thick so that is why I am curious because my component and DVI/HDMI are somewhat thick

DaGamePimp

10-29-06, 01:23 PM

I bought the cable cover from Fry's Electronics , they are about $15 each ( for 5' ) . Sort of a pain to get the ceiling one mounted with the cables in there because the cover flips open and has a pressure snap locking design that can be difficult to actually snap in . They do work however and when you are in an apartment it certainly looks better than bare cable hanging from the ceiling ;) .

Sorry but I do not recall the brand :( , I did see something very similar at a Home Depot .

-------- Jason

Dave W

10-30-06, 12:49 PM

Just received my HC3000U on Friday, and got it mounted over the weekend. I'm projecting onto a 96" diag Carada Brilliant White screen, with viewing distance around 12 ft. It replaced my NEC HT1000 and Panamorph P752 which I recently sold.

I've been reading about the out of the box color performance, and the word is that the newer production units had the grayscale adjusted better out of the box than the earlier units. I never saw an earlier unit, but mine did seem to have pretty decent grayscale, or at least not way out of whack. I have a 30" CRT HDTV right below the screen, and although it's never been professionally calibrated, I've spent time setting it up where I think it's pretty good. The surprising thing is that when I fired up the projector, and selected Cinema gamma, and low color temperature, it's image nearly looked identical to the CRT right below it. Yellows and reds were slightly paler, but otherwise, they were shockingly similar. With the lamp on standard, and the iris open, the projected image was every bit as bright as the CRT! Of course the lamp is brand new, so it may not be able to maintain that quality for too long, but it was surprising to see.

Dave