Ok I'll try to make this somewhat short and hopefully easy to understand.

>snip<

use the hd65 projection calculator (http://www.projectorcentral.com/Optoma-ThemeScene_HD65-projection-calculator-pro.htm), it will give you the right mounting position to use in order to match your existing screen.

Hey there, yah I did use that, So i figured I will get the distance ok now. However, I suppose I should ensure I have things like edge masking (or whaterver its called) turned off right? I will probably use a PS3 game 16:9 as the source for permanently fixing the projector to match the screen....any other major menu items I should ensure that are set to either on/off for the matching image to screen size?

Thanks again

I am new to projectors and I am considering getting one. I was gonna get a 50" plasma for the basement hang out room. Then I found this forum and started reading. I own two 50" plasmas already a Panasonic 1080 set and a LG 720 set. I have a Panasonic HTIB set with an upscaling DVD player, this was a gift for our bedroom set up, but was too much for the room. I have checked the distance calculator and can easily go with a 120" diagonal screen. The room can be totally dark if need be. Will running the upscaling dvd player hurt picture performance any, if at all? I really like the blacks that my current sets put out, I can live with some pq lose for a huge screen. These screen shots look amazing and if I can anywhere near that with my Panasonic dvd player I would gladly join your alls club. I am just worried about the dvd player I have. I was also looking at the Infocus X10, but then your in decent plasma price range. I can't believe that I can have a 120" screen for around $800, a DIY screen and projector off of fleabay. Thanks for any input.

I am new to projectors and I am considering getting one. I was gonna get a 50" plasma for the basement hang out room. Then I found this forum and started reading. I own two 50" plasmas already a Panasonic 1080 set and a LG 720 set. I have a Panasonic HTIB set with an upscaling DVD player, this was a gift for our bedroom set up, but was too much for the room. I have checked the distance calculator and can easily go with a 120" diagonal screen. The room can be totally dark if need be. Will running the upscaling dvd player hurt picture performance any, if at all? I really like the blacks that my current sets put out, I can live with some pq lose for a huge screen. These screen shots look amazing and if I can anywhere near that with my Panasonic dvd player I would gladly join your alls club. I am just worried about the dvd player I have. I was also looking at the Infocus X10, but then your in decent plasma price range. I can't believe that I can have a 120" screen for around $800, a DIY screen and projector off of fleabay. Thanks for any input.

Well the picture's gonna be scaled up to 720p by the projector regardless so it ultimately boils down to what has the better scaler: the projector or the DVD player. There's always the chance that your DVD player isn't all that fantastic to begin with, they are after all not all created equally. I'd say if you're interested in jumping into the projector space and have the means to do so then do so.

Careful though, it's not going to be long before you catch the home theater bug and realize your Panny upscaling player just ain't doing it for you. Maybe it will start innocent enough, you'll crop a couple hundred bucks on Oppo upscaling DVD player (guaranteed to blow the doors off your current player and not just because of the superior scaler) and you might buy some new speakers. Before you know it though you're going to have a $500 receiver, drop $1000+ into your speakers, and have shiny PS3 sitting in your AV rack alongside an extensive Blu-Ray collection.

So by all means, join the club. You won't be disappointed with your current equipment. You've been warned about the future though.

Hey there, yah I did use that, So i figured I will get the distance ok now. However, I suppose I should ensure I have things like edge masking (or whaterver its called) turned off right? I will probably use a PS3 game 16:9 as the source for permanently fixing the projector to match the screen....any other major menu items I should ensure that are set to either on/off for the matching image to screen size?

Thanks again


i dont think theres any other menu settings to play with. i have mine hooked up to an htpc, set at 1280x720. i havent touched any projector settings except the colour calibrations, and it fills my diy screen to the very edge all the way around perfectly and doesnt change with no light hitting the wall behind it(actually quite a nice effect, looks like an image floating in mid air).

i think you should be fine.

guys, a little off topic, blockbuster is selling their used overstock of BDs for 2 for $25. i bought six today already. its a pretty good deal as they are selling a **** ton of good titles.

I sensed that my old Studio Experience 1HD (Z1) was ready for it's 2nd bulb replacement. So instead of blowing another few hundred on a bulb, I picked up a refurbed HD65 last weekend and I sure wished that I had done it earlier.
I knew that the difference in picture was going to be big but the HD65 blew my mind (especially when I consider that I spent 1/2 of what I did for the 1HD 5 years ago).
Still projecting to the same 77" digital grey Goo screen I had for the 1HD but I am going to build an 86" to 90" light grey screen next weekend.

This pj is a kick ass bargain.

Yup good deal for sure... You know what's also really cool? You have 15 days to exchange for another if there is any problems, then another 15 days from the date of the exchange and so on etc

Does anyone have any new updated suggested user/picture settings? Looking for that's 3d popping type picture. The kid likes to watch a lot of pixar type movies

Thanks!

I sensed that my old Studio Experience 1HD (Z1) was ready for it's 2nd bulb replacement. So instead of blowing another few hundred on a bulb, I picked up a refurbed HD65 last weekend and I sure wished that I had done it earlier.
I knew that the difference in picture was going to be big but the HD65 blew my mind (especially when I consider that I spent 1/2 of what I did for the 1HD 5 years ago).
Still projecting to the same 77" digital grey Goo screen I had for the 1HD but I am going to build an 86" to 90" light grey screen next weekend.

This pj is a kick ass bargain.

I had a friend over recently who owns a 1080p projector (not sure which one)
I showed the battle scene from Pearl Harbor. He was suprised it is a "only" 720 pj. This is my first pj and I couldn't be happier with it.

Wow this little projector is still picking up new fans, glad you like it. About sending 720p to the projector, yes it's best if you can do that because there will be no scaling. The projector will precisely pixel match each pixel with no overscan, plus the lines around each pixel will be rendered with full amplitude (bold clear black) creating the sharpest picture. That's what pixel matching is all about.

Members asking for tuning help, use cinema and tune up with the THX optimizer that's in the menu of many DVD's, all of the Star Wars movies have it. If you don't have a calibrating DVD like Avia, DVE, Sound & Vision HT tune up.

Seeing as how my projector will be here on friday, does this baby really only weigh 4lbs? That would be outstanding as it's looking like I'll have to drywall mount this to the ceiling to get proper throw distance. If it's 4lbs, molly bolts will take care of that with no problem.

The other thing to consider is what you are viewing on and lighting conditions. 'General' rule of thumb is if you have ambient light, use a grey screen. If you have light control and a dark viewing room use a light grey or white screen.

It also really helps contrast and colours if you have dark walls, floor and ceiling if you can.

Wow this little projector is still picking up new fans, glad you like it. About sending 720p to the projector, yes it's best if you can do that because there will be no scaling. The projector will precisely pixel match each pixel with no overscan, plus the lines around each pixel will be rendered with full amplitude (bold clear black) creating the sharpest picture. That's what pixel matching is all about.

Members asking for tuning help, use cinema and tune up with the THX optimizer that's in the menu of many DVD's, all of the Star Wars movies have it. If you don't have a calibrating DVD like Avia, DVE, Sound & Vision HT tune up.

Wow, that's good to know. I have my u-verse and blu-ray both set to 1080i (hdmi) thru my onkyo receiver which does no scaling. I will set them both to 720.

got a problem. Getting problem with HDMI signal from PS3. HD65 is set to source lock "on", but getting something like digital interference little horizontal bars all over the screen flickering etc. they kinda look like "-" all over the screen. Then whole screen will go to full blue as if Its lost it source.

This cant be a bad cable could it? Its a 25' hdmi cable from monoprice (the thick bastard).

I havent had any problems with this cable yet....

important side note, i bought an H65 refurb the other week. Worked fine but the zoom wheel seemed a little stiff, so I just exchanged it yesterday for another hd65, the problems Im mentioning above just started today when hooking up the new HD65.

Anyone have any thoughts? Plllleaaase?

edit-also its not constant....problem is happening, then clears for a min or 3 then starts happening again :(

Well I don't want to jinx myself, but I unplugged the pj for 30-60min (feeding babies) and have had the pj back on now for 30 min without a single glitch....looks MINT! Keeping my fingers crossed for now. I will report back if it happens again.

Unbelievable..happening again wondering if I should return this unit or swtich hdmi cables, the prpbelm is it's a 25 footer runningbehind my wall

Seeing as how my projector will be here on friday, does this baby really only weigh 4lbs? That would be outstanding as it's looking like I'll have to drywall mount this to the ceiling to get proper throw distance. If it's 4lbs, molly bolts will take care of that with no problem.

Yes, its very light, I think 4 pds is right on. Still, I felt better finding some wood with the screws for the mount

I see your point, but a single molly bolt is rated to hold 50lbs on nothing but drywall. Using four of them to secure the mount should let me do pull-ups on the projector :)

Anyone having a problem w/ focusing? I will get the bottom focused and looking great but the top will be a little off. Then when I adjust and get the top perfect the bottom is off. Any idea's?

Members asking for tuning help, use cinema and tune up with the THX optimizer that's in the menu of many DVD's, all of the Star Wars movies have it. If you don't have a calibrating DVD like Avia, DVE, Sound & Vision HT tune up.I would recommend calibrating each of your sources independently. Settings that area ideal for a DVD player, may not be for a Blu-Ray, HTPC, video game console, etc.

wondering why the TV mode enlarges the screen size....anyone know?

on another note, I've skimmed through each and every page of this thread today and will be going home tonight to see if I can get my picture problems fixed. I dont want to return this PJ. Hope fully its just a ground loop problem. :( really bummed right now and havent been able to focus on work at all today because of my issues experienced last night.

Going to try another plug outlet, try another HDMI cable maybe, change some PS3 settings and may even try to back out the 3 mounting screws a little just in case....although I was REALLY careful not to tighten too much. If anyone else has any ideas, feel free to cheer me up with a potential fix

Hi guys, I'm reading through this thread but I have a bit of a time issue on my hands because i may need to return/replace my new hd65... and I was hoping you guys could help me out.

So I got it last night, i had an acer ph530w before and this is a noticeable upgrade for almost no extra money after I sold the acer.

However, when there is no content or a VERY black screen, there is a "ghostly" circle or a grey blob about 6" in diameter just off to the left of the screen. I assume this is dust somewhere on the lense or inside. Is this a problem? It really doesn't bother me now... it's not big and ANY content on the screen makes it completely un-noticeable... but I'm just making sure it's nothing to worry about.


Also it's mounted on the ceiling, so airflow is good. however my acer was a bit quieter than this pj, and the fan even on std brightness and no AI seems to ramp up and down quite frequently. So maybe after about 5 mins of a movie or game playing it ramps up, then maybe 5 mins later it seems to ramp up again, then it will spin down maybe 3-4 mins later....then stay quiet...

My last pj had a constant quiet fan so i'm having some trouble adjusting to this one. Is it normal?

hey there, wrt to the circles you see, there is a post from Tiddler:

"So far the only problem reported is light areas visible in very dark or total black scenes. My buddy purchased one of these HD65 projectors and observed 3 or four of these light circular areas. We removed the lamp, and blew out the area with a camera cleaning puffer. Then we used an air mattress pump to blow out all the vents. After this there was only one light area when the image was all black. So we are pretty sure these light areas are caused by dust and therefore could be blown out."

As far as the fan speed Im not sure either. I was testing it out with my ps3 last night, what i experienced was when sitting at the PS3 menu (aka xmb), the fan speed was constant. Then when I started a Blu-Ray disc, the fan noticeably slowed down, then upon stopping the movie and going back to the XMB, the fan sped back up to the same as before. weird.

another issue i experienced the other day was I turned on the projector and while it was running (playing a movie) all three lights (lamp, temp and power Leds) were all RED....what the hell could this mean? to correct I had to power down then back up. shoudl i be scared?

In DLP machines, most of the light (heat) that doesn't go to the screen is deflected to a 'light sump' in the light engine of the machine... it has to go somewhere.

In other words, the -darker- the image the more light (heat) is trapped inside the box. If this situation is prolonged, eventually the heat sensor will increase the fan's speed to cool things down to safe levels for the machine.

Same thing happens, of course, whenever the interior heat reaches a certain level for whatever reason, such as inadequate or very warm ambient air entering the machine.

This occurs more frequently in the HD65 because of its small size...and necessarily small-ish fan.

All in all, it's a marvelous machine, IMO. I own one, too.

I agree picture quality looks great. However, based on my red LED's received and the funky "noise" in the picture I was receiving the other night, I'm going to try and exchange for another H65 before my 2 weeks are up. If I can go a few days without any weirdness going on, i will keep that unit.

Guys I have search the forums and got all different answers to my question, so screw it I will just ask. My room is 24 feet long (with entrance door on side of room at 17 feet). I am planning a HT room. My question is I want to project my HD65 to 92" screen. What is my ideal viewing distance, I have read anything from 1.5xwidth to 3xwidth. Any help would be appreciated.

best/ideal viewing distance? Everthing I hear is 1.5x screen size. So probably 11 or so feet in your case. However, I say screw it all....ideal viewing distance is what you think is best!

For you though, If you can go with a bigger screen i would recommend.

Thanks for the answers guys. I don't mind tinkering a bit, I will see what I can do about the grey blob, and that's kinda what I assumed about the fans speed so all is well.

I used the projector for a while again today and I am still thoroughly impressed for the price.

As for the viewing distance question, I sit 10' away from a 92 inch screen and think it's pretty much awesome. Might be a bit close for some people, and i used to get dizzy on some movies. Shaky camera action scene's are a bit much but the picture is very clear. You have a lot of room to play with, I have none... i would seriously consider a bigger screen as well if you have the space.

For now, still using the 77" Goo screen and sitting 11.5' back. Last night we flipped back and forth between the NBA and NHL playoffs in HD. This little unit sure shows a gorgeous picture. It shows like a nice, big plasma and anything in HD looks great. The screen wall is all covered with black velvet and the screen seems to float off the wall. It never looked this good with the old 1HD.

I painted up an 86" medium grey N8.5 screen yesterday and will put the finish coat (with poly) on tomorrow night to put up this weekend.

Loving it so far.

Unbelievable..happening again wondering if I should return this unit or swtich hdmi cables, the prpbelm is it's a 25 footer runningbehind my wall

What you're describing sounds a lot like an HDMI cable with too much attenuation (especially in the 20+ foot range). I use a (mid-tier) Blue Jeans 25 foot HDMI cable with no problem. Just being "1.3a" rated is not enough: they have to be tested at those lengths (checkout the table at the following link http://www.audioholics.com/education/cables/long-hdmi-cable-bench-tests/hdmi-cable-testing-results).

thanks for the response! I just read that article. Good reading. HOwever, Im not saying another peep until tomorrow cause Im gonna test the hell out of everything tonight :cool: Just please cross your fingers or something for me. Would like to finish off the ceiling above my projector sometime this century.

stay tuned....

Well writte article about hdmi cables with common sense.
But does the performance improve if you send no audio -just video signals- over a longer distance? Anybody any thoughts on this?

I doubt it for the following reason: video represents the bulk of the data, and if the handshake doesn't work (which is what's happening) it probably won't make any difference if you add audio or not.

thanks for the response! I just read that article. Good reading. HOwever, Im not saying another peep until tomorrow cause Im gonna test the hell out of everything tonight :cool: Just please cross your fingers or something for me. Would like to finish off the ceiling above my projector sometime this century.

stay tuned....

I have not had one issue with the monoprice 25 ft. 22AWG HDMI 1.3A and there are others here who use the same with great results.

My experience regarding the fan cycling between settings is only at the power down function as it has remained a constant low speed between the two sources used thus far, dvd player and a htpc.

I would be wary on the the LED indicator showing a potential problem with the unit.

I would bench test or trouble shoot the noise displayed with the source unit and cabling ASAP.

If I spied the LED issue and coupled with the signal noise I would at once return the unit for an exchange due to being a refurb.

A question about superwide here...

On a 1.85 movie(Sin City) it crops the top and bottom, but on a 2.39(Lord of the Rings) it doesn't do anything. I switched between superwide on/off while it was playing but nothing changed. I'm hooked up to a sd-dvd player with HDMI

What am I doing wrong? Or is an issue with LOTR?

Anyone?

I just bought the HD65 for my bedroom setup (got HC4900 for main theater room). I hooked it up in the theater and noticed:
a. brighter picture / softer than the HC4900 (running the HC4900 in low lamp mode BTW)
b. more noise - definately noticable!!)
c. the "issue": I'm seeing 2 "white" vertical bands - 1 on each side - that seems like light without picture. They are outside of the regular 16x9 area and I tried everything but cannot get rid of them.

Anyone noticed this as well and if so - how to fix? On my 135" screen the band is about 12" wide.

FYI using 50 ft Monoprice 22AWG hdmi cable without any problem on a Marantz 7000 (HDMI 1.2)

thanks

wondering why the TV mode enlarges the screen size....anyone know?

on another note, I've skimmed through each and every page of this thread today and will be going home tonight to see if I can get my picture problems fixed. I dont want to return this PJ. Hope fully its just a ground loop problem. :( really bummed right now and havent been able to focus on work at all today because of my issues experienced last night.

Going to try another plug outlet, try another HDMI cable maybe, change some PS3 settings and may even try to back out the 3 mounting screws a little just in case....although I was REALLY careful not to tighten too much. If anyone else has any ideas, feel free to cheer me up with a potential fix


TV mode turns the overscan on.

Hi all
I'd been reading this thread for more than a year and helped me to decide to buy this Optoma HD65 more than a year ago (march 2008).
I'd been using it with only a ps3 without any problems until a week ago, when I moved to a bew house a got a room for the home theater exclusively, so I'd put my HTPC with the home theater hardware and after some time troubleshooting I got it working with the Optoma hd65 via the Sony STR DG910 receiver, but now the hd65 decided to not get any sign from the ps3...

Testing I'd alredy done:

Took out the htpc from the receiver and let only the ps3 via hdmi to the hd65:not getting source.
Connected the ps3 to the receiver to a lcd (Dell 2709) via hdmi: all is fine, I got image and sound thru the receiver to the lcd.
Conected the ps3 via composite on the receiver and out to the hd65 via hdmi: not getting source.

I assume I have handshaking issues, but I live in Argentina and got the projector in USA, so theres no way I can send back the hd65 for a firm update, also more than a year ago so no warranty :(

I'm thinking about selling this one and getting a new Optoma hd65, but it is impossible to be sure the next one will not have the same problem.
Any ideas will be appreciated.

PD: Excuse my bad english

I found one of these on ebay for $620 shipped. Are you guys finding this sold cheaper elsewhere?? If so, where??

Thanks,

Hi all
I'd been reading this thread for more than a year and helped me to decide to buy this Optoma HD65 more than a year ago (march 2008).
I'd been using it with only a ps3 without any problems until a week ago, when I moved to a bew house a got a room for the home theater exclusively, so I'd put my HTPC with the home theater hardware and after some time troubleshooting I got it working with the Optoma hd65 via the Sony STR DG910 receiver, but now the hd65 decided to not get any sign from the ps3...

Testing I'd alredy done:

Took out the htpc from the receiver and let only the ps3 via hdmi to the hd65:not getting source.
Connected the ps3 to the receiver to a lcd (Dell 2709) via hdmi: all is fine, I got image and sound thru the receiver to the lcd.
Conected the ps3 via composite on the receiver and out to the hd65 via hdmi: not getting source.

I assume I have handshaking issues, but I live in Argentina and got the projector in USA, so theres no way I can send back the hd65 for a firm update, also more than a year ago so no warranty :(

I'm thinking about selling this one and getting a new Optoma hd65, but it is impossible to be sure the next one will not have the same problem.
Any ideas will be appreciated.

PD: Excuse my bad english

Can anyone help me please :(

check your source settings in the projector

are there any shops still selling a brand new unit rather than the refurbish one? and how much? tnx..

One thing you must do is find out for sure if there is anything wrong with the PJ. Can you hook up a seperate DVD player directly to it. Try that, using the component and composite inputs and see what happens.

check your source settings in the projector

I tried every posibility, selecting all sources, deselecting them and leaving HDMI only checked, block source, unblocking, nothing works.


One thing you must do is find out for sure if there is anything wrong with the PJ. Can you hook up a seperate DVD player directly to it. Try that, using the component and composite inputs and see what happens.

As I told, I'm using an HTPC connected via HDMI to the projector through a sony STRDG910 reciever without any problems.
Best I got last day was the hd65 got source but showed only a small square in grey and 480p legend, no sound, no real image and I'm most sure is a handshaking problem as the receiver gets signal intermittently if the hd65 is on and the ps3 is selected, none of that happens if the lcd monitor is selected instead, it just works flawlessly with it.

OK... but you are not doing as suggested by the poster... that is to eliminate as much stuff as possible to determine if the projector is working at all. Therefore, make a "simple connection"... one source (eg. composite or component connected) directly to the projector with no other "stuff" in the way. If that doesn't work, then you have a significant problem with the projector. HDMI connections are NOT "simple".

Can someone check there projector with it off and touch
To see if it is warm mine with it off still maintains warm
not hot . Thanks

I found one of these on ebay for $620 shipped. Are you guys finding this sold cheaper elsewhere?? If so, where??

Thanks,

thats really the best going rate for those. there was one canadian place selling them for $450, but it didnt last long and to me was a little questionable anyway.

however, the HD71 has been around $800 lately, and if you can spring for that it should be noticeably better brightness

OK... but you are not doing as suggested by the poster... that is to eliminate as much stuff as possible to determine if the projector is working at all. Therefore, make a "simple connection"... one source (eg. composite or component connected) directly to the projector with no other "stuff" in the way. If that doesn't work, then you have a significant problem with the projector. HDMI connections are NOT "simple".

Done that, tested with the htpc and works fine, the problem is with the ps3 now, it is really wierd, as it was working with the ps3 and the receiver for more than a year.
I think the problem is just a firmware update, but to send the projector to USA and back will costs me more than a new one.

And still going strong! No complaints, increased noise, unexpected shutdowns, wheel whine, or other assorted weirdnesses. Have tremendously enjoyed this little unit. But I'm starting to think about a lamp replacement.

( I was so sure I would be snapping up a <$1K LED FP by now ! )

I see $220 naked bulbs online. Anyone have anything say about going this way? I've always purchased lamp assemblies in the past, but have no problem just getting the bulb if there are no gotchas.

Comments? Thanks!

And still going strong! No complaints, increased noise, unexpected shutdowns, wheel whine, or other assorted weirdnesses. Have tremendously enjoyed this little unit. But I'm starting to think about a lamp replacement.

( I was so sure I would be snapping up a <$1K LED FP by now ! )

I see $220 naked bulbs online. Anyone have anything say about going this way? I've always purchased lamp assemblies in the past, but have no problem just getting the bulb if there are no gotchas.

Comments? Thanks!

got mine 1 1/2 years and works like a charme - like the first day. Recommended it to a few friends who are also happy and still impressed. Noticed the lamp count is different when running on eco compared to bright. Counts the hours only half. How many hours do you have on and do you notice a dimmer picture?

Hey heiwi

It shows nearly 1000 lamp hours, but I bought it used so there's no telling how much mileage it really has. All too easy to reset the lamp counter. I run the PJ fulltime on the bright setting, so it's just a matter of time before that starts to go.

Truth to tell, it's still plenty bright, even with all the ambient light I've got in this current "HT alcove" setup.

The real question I'm asking is whether or not folks here have had success with the naked bulbs vs whole lamp assemblies. Or maybe no one's gotten to the point when their original lamp has dimmed to that point.

So how about it. Anyone here on their second lamp?

I had my Infocus Screenplay 5700 for about 5 years and it died for the second time. After reading about the HD65 a bunch (Mostly on this thread ;) ) I decided to buy one off ebay for $630. All I have to say is WOW I'm using a 92 "Stewart Filmscreen Firehawk mostly for bluray's and its amazing. Also what was nice is that it barely needed any adjustments to get the color and grayscale correct for film standard. All and All a GREAT BUY!!!! :D


P.S PS3 Games look awesome!!!!

Costco Canada offers now an Optoma® HD200X - native 1080p. Checked out the net about this product without success (incl. official Optoma side). Anybody has more info about this new item which replaces the HD65?

I had my Infocus Screenplay 5700 for about 5 years and it died for the second time. After reading about the HD65 a bunch (Mostly on this thread ;) ) I decided to buy one off ebay for $630. All I have to say is WOW I'm using a 92 "Stewart Filmscreen Firehawk mostly for bluray's and its amazing. Also what was nice is that it barely needed any adjustments to get the color and grayscale correct for film standard. All and All a GREAT BUY!!!! :D


P.S PS3 Games look awesome!!!!

Care to post your settings? I would like to compare them to my own.

Thanks

Care to post your settings? I would like to compare them to my own.

Thanks

Sure they are :

Display Mode : Cinema
Contrast : -5
Brightness : -3

Color Temp Warm
Image AI : Off
TrueVivid : Off
Brilliant Color : Off

Gamma : PC

RGB Gain/Bias
R -1
G 0
B 0
R -1
G 0
B 0

Thanks, I will give them a try

I am interested in buying a HD65 projector, but I fear that my room is too small. I can put the projector at about 9-10 feet from the projection surface. And I will stay 9 feet away from the projection. Won't the projection appear pixelated?

Thanks, I will give them a try
Also the settings i listed are for the PS3 in HDMI Full Range not Limited

I am interested in buying a HD65 projector, but I fear that my room is too small. I can put the projector at about 9-10 feet from the projection surface. And I will stay 9 feet away from the projection. Won't the projection appear pixelated?

check this out
http://www.projectorcentral.com/Optoma-HD65-projection-calculator-pro.htm

screen size can only go up to 85" diagonal at 10 feet....but you are in the recommended viewing distance....with 100" screen at 10ft, I cannot see pixels.

I am really undecided between HD65 and the benQ W500.I will use the projector for Xbox 360 gaming and bluray viewing.The thing is that the benQ is cheaper in my country(about 800$,when the HD65 is about 1000$).How about the picture quality?Which one do you recommend for what I will be using it for?

I am really undecided between HD65 and the benQ W500.I will use the projector for Xbox 360 gaming and bluray viewing.The thing is that the benQ is cheaper in my country(about 800$,when the HD65 is about 1000$).How about the picture quality?Which one do you recommend for what I will be using it for?
I would recomend looking on ebay you should be able to find an HD65 for under $800 that ships worldwide. After reading up on some reviews of the benq it seems that the HD65 is a better unit. (having just bought one myself that I use for bluray and gaming) I would agree, because personally i think the picture quality of DLP rather than LCD has a much more natural look to it IMO .

Optoma HD65 Projector: Cons

Very limited zoom lens, for limited placement flexibility
No lens shift - no shelf mounting
Optoma's typical lack of multiple savable user settings
ImageAI occasionally visible coming from darker scenes to brighter scenes. If the bright scene isn't changing much, the brightness can be seen jumping up a bit
A fan noise is louder than most projectors, although not exceptionally so
Backlit buttons on remote, may actually be too bright!
Only a 1 year parts and labor warranty (which is becoming pretty typical, but there are competitors with 2, or 3 year warranties out there)

BenQ W500 Projector: Cons

Placement flexibility: Limited zoom lens range (1.2:1)
Filter to clean (like all other LCD home theater projectors)
One of the louder projectors in full power lamp mode
Lamp door on bottom, requires removal from a ceiling mount, to change out
Color shift in background, shift towards red at very dark (low) values
Could use a 2nd (or third) HDMI input

http://www.projectorreviews.com/benq/w500/
http://www.projectorreviews.com/optoma/hd65/proscons.php

I am really undecided between HD65 and the benQ W500.I will use the projector for Xbox 360 gaming and bluray viewing.The thing is that the benQ is cheaper in my country(about 800$,when the HD65 is about 1000$).How about the picture quality?Which one do you recommend for what I will be using it for?

Andrei,
In my setup I have a small dedicated room (12.5' x 13') where we sit about 9' from an 86' diagonal screen. The HD65 is ceiling mounted at about 10' from the lens. The picture is fabulous with no pixelation and we really experience the theatre affect.

I used to have an old Boxlight 1HD beaming to a 77" screen in the same room that we used to view from about 11'. It was nice but there is comparison in the picture quality to what we have now.

Play with the projector calculator from the link the streetcredit posted; it's what I used. As some people say, "The bigger the better." but you don't have to have a 100" screen to enjoy home theatre.

50" plasmas and LCDs will seem small once you're set up.

Optoma's typical lack of multiple savable user settingsAs I've mentioned elsewhere here - from my observations, the various display "modes" such as Cinema, Bright, TV, Photo, User etc. are nothing more than individual memory banks for settings. The names are purely labels - there is nothing technically unique from one mode to another. To check this, simply enter identical numeric values for the various image settings to two different modes and flip back and forth - no difference to my eye.

So essentially you have five memory banks of settings. What I haven't taken the time to confirm is whether that is five per input or five globally.

Costco Canada offers now an Optoma® HD200X - native 1080p. Checked out the net about this product without success (incl. official Optoma side). Anybody has more info about this new item which replaces the HD65?

The HD200X in Canada is the HD20 in US/Europe. Checkout this thread
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1155084

As I've mentioned elsewhere here - from my observations, the various display "modes" such as Cinema, Bright, TV, Photo, User etc. are nothing more than individual memory banks for settings. The names are purely labels - there is nothing technically unique from one mode to another. To check this, simply enter identical numeric values for the various image settings to two different modes and flip back and forth - no difference to my eye.

Exactly right

Those preset modes are sometimes way off for each person's particular setup. I recalibrated each mode to my own preferences and needs.

Thank you for the fast and informative replies.
A couple of more questions:
1. Quote from projectorreviews.com: "Set up the HD65, though, with a small screen, say 92", and while the whole image will be very bright, the blacks will be lighter gray, than many would find ideal. I'd probably recommend about a 100" diagonal screen as a good starting place, for those wanting to keep the absolute black levels down pretty low." I will be probably see a 77" projection by puting the projector 9 feet away from the screen. Aren't the blacks disturbingly gray-ish at this projection size?
2. The lens does not shift. Does that mean that I can only hang it from the wall? Or can I put it on a flat surface aswell?
Thank you in advance.

1) I think you can just turn down the brightness, I don't believe that will be a problem
2) you just must put it in the correct position....it can be on a flat surface or hung upside down

1. I run mine in cinema (low lamp) and I find the black levels are pretty good. They certainly are not grey. Shadow detail is also pretty good.
I don't know what your room is like but if you can control ambient light and the colour scheme in the room is dark then that really helps as well. It also depends on what screen you are going to use.
2. As streetcredit said; either on a flat surface (table top or stand of some sort) or ceiling mounted.

If I have the option to go with the Panasonic AX200U for about the same price (found a site from the US that ships to my country) should I go with the Panny?
From what I have heard it has better image quality (better blacks and shadows), it can zoom in for more (the projection will appear bigger) and is easier to set up.

Exactly right

Those preset modes are sometimes way off for each person's particular setup. I recalibrated each mode to my own preferences and needs.I'm glad someone else can acknowledge this. I was really questioning why I kept reading all this mention that the "Cinema" mode yields the best picture quality when there's really nothing technically special about it. Even some of the projector review sites kept saying "Cinema" is best yet you can make any of the other modes look identical to it if you feed them the same numeric value image settings.

The other thing confusing me - where do people read "Eco Mode" in the projector menu? My HD65 does not use that term for lamp brightness, only Bright or Standard. I know Standard is probably the same thing as Eco but the language is different from what I see.

yep ECO is the same as standard

yep ECO is the same as standardSo are some HD65s using the term "ECO" right in the menu?

If it was NIB, hoped you jumped on it, as it was probably sold by someone I know.

Got mine from him and it works like a charm and under warranty.

I found one of these on ebay for $620 shipped. Are you guys finding this sold cheaper elsewhere?? If so, where??

Thanks,

didn't you replace your bulb unit with < 200 hours in a hd65?

got mine 1 1/2 years and works like a charme - like the first day. Recommended it to a few friends who are also happy and still impressed. Noticed the lamp count is different when running on eco compared to bright. Counts the hours only half. How many hours do you have on and do you notice a dimmer picture?

didn't you replace your bulb unit with < 200 hours in a hd65?

No - what makes you think that?

Heiwi, look, I don't want to hang the laundry....

You solicited a optoma hd65 here on this forum at the time I was looking to purchase one. I sent you a pm and you replied to me with a quote of $XXX.xx. I replied that one could purchase a NIB for sub $XXX.xx with all acessories, no tax, and free s/h.... all this from a reputable co. I ended up saving $200.00 off of your quote on your used pj for a NIB which is under manu warranty, not to mention I have a Mack extended to include bulb protection.

In our communication you'd mentioned that you replaced the bulb with <200 hours in the pj you were selling and I replied "....and you also stated this has a new lamp at 200 hrs max...???", your response was, " I actually did not like the picture with a new bulb. Picture is better when the bulb has settled in after about 150 hours".

What gives.....


No - what makes you think that?

Heiwi, look, I don't want to hang the laundry....

You solicited a optoma hd65 here on this forum at the time I was looking to purchase one. I sent you a pm and you replied to me with a quote of $XXX.xx. I replied that one could purchase a NIB for sub $XXX.xx with all acessories, no tax, and free s/h.... all this from a reputable co. I ended up saving $200.00 off of your quote on your used pj for a NIB which is under manu warranty, not to mention I have a Mack extended to include bulb protection.

In our communication you'd mentioned that you replaced the bulb with <200 hours in the pj you were selling and I replied "....and you also stated this has a new lamp at 200 hrs max...???", your response was, " I actually did not like the picture with a new bulb. Picture is better when the bulb has settled in after about 150 hours".

What gives.....
yes, sold it with the new bulb since I kept the 200 hour bulb because I liked the picture better.

ok, cool. totally understand break-in's

yes, sold it with the new bulb since I kept the 200 hour bulb because I liked the picture better.

Whats a good price for a used HD65? I saw one with 200hr for $200

if is an honest 200 hrs, then yes seems like a good deal to me.

Interesting read for us HD65 owners I think. Thanks Recon for the link
http://www.techradar.com/news/home-cinema/projectors/optoma-3d-ready-projectors-out-this-year--610734

Hey guys, remember there are variables here... as lamp time can be reset and the lamp counter works proportionally in the Eco/Std setting.

Whats a good price for a used HD65? I saw one with 200hr for $200

Agreed

if is an honest 200 hrs, then yes seems like a good deal to me.

Wow wow wow, how cool is this!? They've got to be rolling this out to current owners via the firmware. Glasses are a little pricy at the stated range...but I think I could part with the dough to be an early adopter.

Thanks for the share guys.

Interesting read for us HD65 owners I think. Thanks Recon for the link
http://www.techradar.com/news/home-cinema/projectors/optoma-3d-ready-projectors-out-this-year--610734

"Thats HUUUUUUUGE"

(stern fans will get it :P )

That IS huge, but I don't see where it says there's a HARDWARE upgrade to the HD65, so what's to keep existing owners from doing this, even if the firmware update has to be done by an authorized dealer (or sent to Optoma)?? Someone get the scoop!

There's a service port in the back. One would think that an internet connection and presto... download.

That IS huge, but I don't see where it says there's a HARDWARE upgrade to the HD65, so what's to keep existing owners from doing this, even if the firmware update has to be done by an authorized dealer (or sent to Optoma)?? Someone get the scoop!

yah probably will have to DL a file, then transfer over from a laptop to the HD65. Probably an easy thing to do. :)

Thanks to all of you folks and your opinions I have decided to buy the HD65.

Can someone now please direct me to where to buy at the best price.
I have read about the pitfalls of buying from places like deltacamera and closeoutdeals.
Are refurb units the best deals?
Any thoughts on buying from this ebayer

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110407329690&ssPageName=MERCOSI_VI_ROSI_PR4_PCN_BIX&refitem=180369893477&itemcount=4&refwidgetloc=closed_view_item&refwidgettype=osi_widget&_trksid=p284.m263&_trkparms=algo%3DSIC%26its%3DI%252BC%252BP%252BS%252BIA%26it u%3DFICS%252BUFI%2
52BIIUM%252BP%252BUA%252BUCI%26otn%3D4%26ps%3D10

Is 639 shipped a good price?
Thanks.

Can't comment on the refurb's but that's about the price for nib.

Thanks to all of you folks and your opinions I have decided to buy the HD65.

Can someone now please direct me to where to buy at the best price.
I have read about the pitfalls of buying from places like deltacamera and closeoutdeals.
Are refurb units the best deals?
Any thoughts on buying from this ebayer

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110407329690&ssPageName=MERCOSI_VI_ROSI_PR4_PCN_BIX&refitem=180369893477&itemcount=4&refwidgetloc=closed_view_item&refwidgettype=osi_widget&_trksid=p284.m263&_trkparms=algo%3DSIC%26its%3DI%252BC%252BP%252BS%252BIA%26it u%3DFICS%252BUFI%2
52BIIUM%252BP%252BUA%252BUCI%26otn%3D4%26ps%3D10

Is 639 shipped a good price?
Thanks.

I haven't been able to find nib for 639. Could you please suggest some places. Thanks.

i believe you are not suppose to direct people to a company unless they are a sponsor of this website. with that said, i would search and if it's sub $800 for nib, i'd consider pulling the trigger.

just my 2 cents as you may be perfectly happy with a refurb. and i know that some here found them i think around $550 canadian... might want to query how those units are holding up.

Hello guys, i recently purchased the optoma hd65 and i am very pleased with it! I will upload pictures soon.

However, there are one or two things im worried about
1) Lamp Life
2) How hot it gets

How do i put the bulb on low mode so that it uses less hours?

And whilst the projector is on i have noticed it gets very hot, is this meant to happen?

cheers people!

1st off i bought mine from projector stores as a refurb and 2nd i have about 140hrs and the only problem ive had is the bulb flickering problem. I ran it the other night on BRIGHT mode for about 16hrs and i havent seen it again yet although ive only used it for a couple hrs since

Just wondering if there is a quick way to clean the dust out a little without having to unmount the projector. I know this isnt the best way, but I figured its a good way to start. I think I might have a dust blob...not sure.

My homemade mount makes it a little tough to line everything back exactly the way it was if I unmount it. Any help is greatly appreciated.

New here and on the hunt for one. Found a good deal for a NIB HD65, but how picky is Optoma on their warranty, will they care where its from, if it is an unopened box?

They're not picky on the outfit you bought it from. Just show the receipt bought in the US or wherever and they help you out.

I think I'm going to buy the HD65. Below is the link where I found it for $610 shipped.

http://www.elitecamcorders.com/SearchResults.asp?Search=hd65

Also, has anyone dealt with Elitecamcorders.com? I've heard some negative things...

flydfans, check out this link re: elite camcorders:
http://thoughts-of-dave.blogspot.com/2009/06/bait-and-switch-elitecamcorders-aka.html

I'd stay clear.

I'm about to jump onto the projector band wagon and get an HD65. I just found an 119" screen. Will the projected image look pixelated with a screen that big?? :confused:

I'll be using a HTPC for bluray's and DVD's. I also have an Xbox360 if anything I'm sure the Xbox will be pixelated.

Please advise, I have the 119" electric screen ($285 shipped) in my shopping cart. :cool:

I think I read something about this earlier in the thread, but I don't remember where.

Anyway, the fan on my Optoma HD65 starts off quiet (normal economy mode) but after some time - maybe a few minutes - it gets louder and seems like it's on bright mode. I have High Altitude set to Off.

Also, when I go into the menu and change the setting from Normal to Bright and then back to Normal, the fan quiets down again. However, about 2 minutes later, the fan gets louder again.

Anyone know how to solve this problem?

Could it be the projectors AI function that's controlling the light which in turn is ramping up the fan?

I have the AI function turned off as well if my memory serves me well.

with my hd65, I too run AI off, high altitude off (i'm at sea level), and bulb in normal/ECO mode (whatever its called) and most of the time, the fan was quiet/slow. Occasionally, it would ramp up and be very loud, sound like my xbox360, and I would have to cycle to bright mode and back again to normal to get it to quiet back down. It stopped cycling the fan to high when I started making sure I always ran a nearby ceiling fan when using PJ. So try and do whatever you can to move some air around/by PJ.

I sounds like it's just a heat issue, not surprising for such a bright unit in such a small case. I'm considering this as a replacement for my NEC LT150, but if it's loud like that, then it's a no-go. Anyone here can make that comparison? It's easy to tune the projector out mentally even if it's loud, but if it CHANGES, then that's annoying.

It's easy to tune the projector out mentally even if it's loud, but if it CHANGES, then that's annoying.

I have NEVER had my HD65 change fan speeds/volume during a movie; I consider the noise very tolerable (better than my old projector), and sit no more than a few feet from it during viewing. Mine is about 9 months old now.

my hd65 is very quiet as far as i am concerned. i used to have an sp4805(now that was loud) and it's no comparison. i find on really hot days, the fan will spin a little faster(im guessing to compensate for the extra heat) but still plenty quite. and it never noticeably changes while watching.

i sit directly underneath it, my head is about 4' from it.

Hey guys,

According to Optoma's screen distance calculator http://www.optomausa.com/distancecalculator.asp

1) Will a 119" screen be ok to be hung 14 feet 8 inches away?

2) Will the zoom feature allow me to be off a little bit??

3) How precise does one need to be.

Thanks guys!

That is about exactly were I am at. And yes you do have some flexibility on the distance, zoom in or out and refocus. I have 120" screen and am sitting about 15 ft away and there is no pixelation. I can't see pixels until about 8 feet. I have my PS3 and Xbox360 setup through HDMI and love every second of it.

Now on the people talking about the high fan noise. My first unit did the same thing, start out quiet, ramp up, then up again, then up on more time. Even louder than the bright setting would be. Projector finally burned out with 40 hours on bulb and I couldn't be happier!! Got a new unit and it is so quite compared the the first one. I wasn't happy with the pj at first because of the noise, but just thought I had to deal with it. So happy my new unit is whisper quiet. To all that have noise issues, swap it if you can. (I was still in my 90 day costco warranty)

I have a refurbished HD65 and I haven't really had issues with the fan either. Honestly I don't hear it hardly at all and it sits right above my head ceiling mounted.

Now, I bought this PJ for my apartment and have been using for about 6 months now, and it's fantastic. I am however moving pretty soon, and I'm gonna have a lot more room in my new place for a screen. With that, what's the biggest you think this PJ could go and still look good? I've seen screens that are around 150'' and those look amazing. Now, I'm not expecting anything crazy like that out of this projector as it isn't a high dollar one, I was just curious what you guys thought.

I had a HD 65 a while back in my basement home theater. The projector slowly heated up the room, and as it got warmer, the HD65 would ramp up to xbox 360 levels and not back down untill I played with the brighness levels and changed them back and forth.

The culprit here is the small form factor. The projector looked great, but you cannot put that much heat in such a small case. If you do, you can only get a small fan in there. To move air, it needs to spin really fast, thus your noise.

I took it back after one night's use. Got a Mitsubishi HD4900, can't even hear that projector.

I like the DLP look better, but that noise was stupid.

Being in the PNW, most homes do not have A/C as is the case with my current home, a split level. Of course we are having fantastic weather this summer, with that said, my pj has been used exclusively upstairs where the ambient temps are off the charts, lol.

Bought my pj almost 4 mos ago and it has been running at coffee table height...all the usual settings, AI off, eco, etc... also above sea level by about 850 ft...fan has ran on low setting only to do its cycling at power down. Fan can barely be heard and once Dolby or THX kicks in, it's a non-issue.

The 3D upgrade? I was thinking if Optoma gets a little touchy on doing the upgrade I could probably talk them into letting me do it.

Are many interested in the 3D feature? I'll have to get my hands on a machine and glasses and check it out. They'll be no screenshots though. :)

The 3D upgrade? I was thinking if Optoma gets a little touchy on doing the upgrade I could probably talk them into letting me do it.

Are many interested in the 3D feature? I'll have to get my hands on a machine and glasses and check it out. They'll be no screenshots though. :)

I'm down... please tell me connect to the net for the firmware and presto :)

Count me in on the 3D upgrade.

On a side note, I stopped into a local shop today. They had a lcd pj projected onto a da-lite screen. The pj costs 2.5 times what the 65 retails for. I won't mention the brand (don't want to bash them.) They were showing the David Gilmour blu-ray. I thought it looked like absolute crap! Very grainey and dull.

Count me in on the 3d Upgrade as well!! Thanks.

Hey all,
I got my hd65 today and am very happy, but i can't get the user setting to save, when I turn it off it resets, Did I not save them ?

Thanks for the help, and the good info

So, Im pretty new to the projector market and this will be my first post on AVS forum. I have been studying projects online for a day or so now. I am extremely interested in the HD65. We are having a new house built and I am strongly considering projectors over plasma or LCD. After spending our money we probably wont have enough to do fancy wiring in the house (they wont let us do it before the house is completed building so wiring in walls wont be easy after its built).
So, my plan was gonna be if we buy the projector we would put it on a coffee table in front of the couch we would be sitting on.
The couch will be about 10-11' away from the wall. The projector probably foot or 2 in front of the couch. I looked at the projector calculator on pj central but, it doesnt let me really choose a screen size much smaller then 99" or a throw distance smaller then 10feet.
Im wondering, will this projector show a picture fine closer then 10'? say 7-8' how big will the picture be and will the black levels still be decently dark?
Anything else wrong with setting it this close?

I also have some general hookup questions. We plan on hooking up basic digital cable, DVD, sound system and a reciever. But, the projector doesnt have a tv tuner in it, so what serves as my tuner? The receiver? Or would I buy a seperate tuner as well?
Also, does the projector do any sort of up converting for normal DVD content or do I have to get a DVD player capable of doing that?
Thanks.

The 3D upgrade? I was thinking if Optoma gets a little touchy on doing the upgrade I could probably talk them into letting me do it.

Are many interested in the 3D feature? I'll have to get my hands on a machine and glasses and check it out. They'll be no screenshots though. :)

would love that feature too - let us know as soon you have dtails

So, Im pretty new to the projector market and this will be my first post on AVS forum. I have been studying projects online for a day or so now. I am extremely interested in the HD65. We are having a new house built and I am strongly considering projectors over plasma or LCD. After spending our money we probably wont have enough to do fancy wiring in the house (they wont let us do it before the house is completed building so wiring in walls wont be easy after its built).
So, my plan was gonna be if we buy the projector we would put it on a coffee table in front of the couch we would be sitting on.
The couch will be about 10-11' away from the wall. The projector probably foot or 2 in front of the couch. I looked at the projector calculator on pj central but, it doesnt let me really choose a screen size much smaller then 99" or a throw distance smaller then 10feet.
Im wondering, will this projector show a picture fine closer then 10'? say 7-8' how big will the picture be and will the black levels still be decently dark?
Anything else wrong with setting it this close?

I also have some general hookup questions. We plan on hooking up basic digital cable, DVD, sound system and a reciever. But, the projector doesnt have a tv tuner in it, so what serves as my tuner? The receiver? Or would I buy a seperate tuner as well?
Also, does the projector do any sort of up converting for normal DVD content or do I have to get a DVD player capable of doing that?
Thanks.

The projector will upconvert any source to it's native resolution, how well depends on the projector. I would suggest using a DVD player with an HDMI output, most of which upconvert to 720p as well. Although I use component video and it looks great (remember the old days?!?) The digital cable box will serve as your tuner. This application of yours on a table top is good for weekend movies, but not as a daily setup, it will get old quick.

The 3D upgrade? I was thinking if Optoma gets a little touchy on doing the upgrade I could probably talk them into letting me do it.

Are many interested in the 3D feature? I'll have to get my hands on a machine and glasses and check it out. They'll be no screenshots though. :)

YES, but ... I'm more interested in running EVERYTHING at 120Hz if that would tame 60Hz pan tearing. Any insights there Tom?

It should help just like it does with the newer flat panels. I guess it's how good of a job Optoma does at implementing it.

The projector will upconvert any source to it's native resolution, how well depends on the projector. I would suggest using a DVD player with an HDMI output, most of which upconvert to 720p as well. Although I use component video and it looks great (remember the old days?!?) The digital cable box will serve as your tuner. This application of yours on a table top is good for weekend movies, but not as a daily setup, it will get old quick.

Thanks for your reply, Im looking at a reciever that is hopefully fairly decent. Its the 2009 Denon receiver and it upconverts all analog signals to 480p and outputs them to a single HDMI which then I could run solely to my HD65. There is also a higher end($100 more) Denon that can upconvert all analog to 720p then out through single HDMI to the PJ. So, Im wondering do you think the 480p version would be fine and let the HD65 do all upconverting or should I do the 720p version? Overall how well does this projector upconvert?
I have a DVD player currently that has at least component output its older and I know it does not have any HDMI or anything...heck I hope it has something other than analog sound output too. LOL
Thanks

About to pick up an HD65 but have a question.

I know you can't expand the picture size much on the HD65 and it's mainly dependant on where you set up the projector.

However, I was wondering if I can SHRINK the picture size. For example, I plan to setup the Projector about 11.5 feet away from the screen. However, I only want (and have room for right now) an 82 inch screen.

Will I be able to shrink the picture to fit 82 inch's? It seems like it would be easier to shrink the image then zoom in and make it larger.

About to pick up an HD65 but have a question.

I know you can't expand the picture size much on the HD65 and it's mainly dependant on where you set up the projector.

However, I was wondering if I can SHRINK the picture size. For example, I plan to setup the Projector about 11.5 feet away from the screen. However, I only want (and have room for right now) an 82 inch screen.

Will I be able to shrink the picture to fit 82 inch's? It seems like it would be easier to shrink the image then zoom in and make it larger.

afraid not, the zoom is a range, and a very small range on the hd65. the furthest away you could mount this projector for an 82" picture would be 10' 2"(lens to screen).

For a first projector purchase would you guys recommend this projector or would you try something else. I have many of the backlogs, but always like to hear it straight.

for your first projector, if it fits the room parameters (slight offset, limited zoom, lens shift a few inches nothing more) then go for it, you won't be disappointed by the picture quality.

About to pick up an HD65 but have a question.

I know you can't expand the picture size much on the HD65 and it's mainly dependant on where you set up the projector.

However, I was wondering if I can SHRINK the picture size. For example, I plan to setup the Projector about 11.5 feet away from the screen. However, I only want (and have room for right now) an 82 inch screen.

Will I be able to shrink the picture to fit 82 inch's? It seems like it would be easier to shrink the image then zoom in and make it larger.

afraid not, the zoom is a range, and a very small range on the hd65. the furthest away you could mount this projector for an 82" picture would be 10' 2"(lens to screen).


How about Edge masking?

You could manually control with EdgeMask, which should give you a slightly smaller image but maintain 1 to 1 pixel mapping.

Thanks for the response. ONe last question before I pull the trigger.

Would you still recommend this projector for a first time user? Is it a good entry level model? And do Blu Ray movies have a nice and crisp picture in person?

Hi folks just got a Optoma 700x and a 120" primebuy screen I love this to bits on my WDTV media player only thing is I cant seem to get superwide to work properly - on 1.85 movies I get the bars as expected but on 2.35 movies it just stays the same size. Anyone got any ideas as its the same as the hd65?

I am curious, with this projector how would it handle a normal fullscreen rated DVD? would it still have the black borders or does the projector change its box size depending on the input ratio? Im wondering whats the common behavior with projectors in this regard?

Does anyone have links to what a normal DVD 480i/p input would look like being upconverted by this projector?
Thanks

So, Im pretty new to the projector market and this will be my first post on AVS forum. I have been studying projects online for a day or so now. I am extremely interested in the HD65. We are having a new house built and I am strongly considering projectors over plasma or LCD. After spending our money we probably wont have enough to do fancy wiring in the house (they wont let us do it before the house is completed building so wiring in walls wont be easy after its built).

I'm a bit late reading your posts, but there's a few things I think you should consider (even though you may not like hearing them).
1) I would NOT make a projector my main viewing source (e.g. "choosing" it over a flat panel); it's great for movies, special occasions, etc.
2) I WOULD spend whatever extra $$ you need to in PRE-WIRING the house and not on equipment: you only get one chance to pre-wire, but you can buy stuff forever. NOTE: I pre-wired (only) the speakers in my "movie" room myself, and it was worth building the house for.
3) I would NOT invest in any amp/receiver that only up-converts to 480p, and I would NOT let the HD65 do any scaling; it's not what it does best (and you can't expect it to for the price).

In general, feed this projector 720p via HDMI and you will have a great-looking, easy to use setup. That's not to say it won't handle RGB (I use an old HDTV tuner that way as well), but it keeps the cable clutter down. Hope this helps with your big decision(s).

So, my plan was gonna be if we buy the projector we would put it on a coffee table in front of the couch we would be sitting on.
The couch will be about 10-11' away from the wall. The projector probably foot or 2 in front of the couch. I looked at the projector calculator on pj central but, it doesnt let me really choose a screen size much smaller then 99" or a throw distance smaller then 10feet.
Im wondering, will this projector show a picture fine closer then 10'? say 7-8' how big will the picture be and will the black levels still be decently dark?
Anything else wrong with setting it this close?


There are a plus (+) and minus (-) on both the throw distance and the three diagonal adjustments for the calculator. Keep clicking the - or the + until you arrive at your preferred setting. For the HD65 there is also a button to click for floor (table top) or ceiling mount to calculate your offsets.
You will get a beautiful picture from closer than 10'.

I'm a bit late reading your posts, but there's a few things I think you should consider (even though you may not like hearing them).
1) I would NOT make a projector my main viewing source (e.g. "choosing" it over a flat panel); it's great for movies, special occasions, etc.
2) I WOULD spend whatever extra $$ you need to in PRE-WIRING the house and not on equipment: you only get one chance to pre-wire, but you can buy stuff forever. NOTE: I pre-wired (only) the speakers in my "movie" room myself, and it was worth building the house for.
3) I would NOT invest in any amp/receiver that only up-converts to 480p, and I would NOT let the HD65 do any scaling; it's not what it does best (and you can't expect it to for the price).

In general, feed this projector 720p via HDMI and you will have a great-looking, easy to use setup. That's not to say it won't handle RGB (I use an old HDTV tuner that way as well), but it keeps the cable clutter down. Hope this helps with your big decision(s).

Ok thanks for your feedback =), we arent planning on keeping this house but selling it within a few years and buying our second house. We have NO option to get it installed right now...because everyone wants an arm and a leg to do it. Say it would be cheaper after the home is built plus, I have no time to go to the home measure everything and take into account projector distance where exactly I want speakers and so forth. The walls are almost finished...so its like the house is already done as far as wiring goes.
Regarding the receiver...so your saying get the receiver that upconverts all analog into 1080p for 100$ more and the projector will downscale it to 720p and look better then the 480p -> projector feed?
We dont watch TV hardly at all....so we wont be putting tons of hours on the PJ, so I am aiming it to make it my primary watching screen...but we watch tv maybe like 8-10hrs a week and one or 2 movies during that week as well.

Tell me, would running all my stuff into a receiver and it changing everything to a single HDMI input for the projector be a good idea? or should I run all the input wires directly to the projector?
I ask because, I plan on hooking up...DVD, TV and a Wii...to me it makes more sense to wire everything to the receiver and save on cables going from receiver to projector via doing all those devices in the single HDMI cable...
What do you think?

Tell me, would running all my stuff into a receiver and it changing everything to a single HDMI input for the projector be a good idea? or should I run all the input wires directly to the projector?

That's what I would do in your case. Also, if the receiver upconverts to 1080p, then it does 720p, and that's what you would feed the HD65; then the projector doesn't have to scale ANYTHING.

That's what I would do in your case. Also, if the receiver upconverts to 1080p, then it does 720p, and that's what you would feed the HD65; then the projector doesn't have to scale ANYTHING.

+1

Also since the HD65 has only one HDMI input you don't have much choice...

I am so confused, I dont know where to use an upconverter in my setup Im trying to plan out.
Im wondering would it be best to use the HD65's upconverter from a inexpensive receiver that can at least put everything into a single HDMI input to the HD65.
Or get a receiver that upconverts at a decent price point of like 400-500$ hopefully lower.
Or buy a upconverting DVD player and the same reciever used in plan one.
I have no idea which setup would look best and have the least cost involved.
I wish I could find a video or picture of what the HD65 looks like with standard 480i/p running to it from a DVD player so I can see how bad or good normal dvd looks with its(hd65) built in upconverter.

Just pulled the trigger on one of these. Hopefully it all works out. Figure I will upgrade in a year or two when 1080p projectors become cheaper and I have more space to work with.

I think Im gonna team one of these up with the onkyo HT-S6100 which does video upconversion and upscaling with all sources up to 1080i and I will choose it to do it just to 720p for all inputs.
Looks like a decent HTIB setup that should work well with this unit. I just need to find a place that has a DLP set up locally so I can experience it and see if I can see the RBE effect at all.

does anyone have any news on this announced firmware to make the hd65 show 3d? read a post on it sounds good .

If you are already planning to buy BD player, perhaps look into buying PS3, which from what I understand is one of the best BD players around even if you are not a gamer. I've seen some good sites using PS3 as their reference BD player. Myself since I play a lot of 720P/1080P mkv container files, I've put together a little HTPC box (with HDMI and sound on board) that plays everything from another PC (media server). If I'll ever need BD player I'll just buy an internal BD player for my HTPC... For regular DVDs I'm using simple/cheap upconverting Philips DVP5990 dvd player (I sent video in native 720P). Don't forget DVD is DVD, how much money are you willing to spend on it... At the end I guess it all depends on your needs and how much $$$ you are willing to spend.

Like many peeps I went with HD65 because it is one of the best price/performance 720P PJs up there. In a year or two depending on the lamp, I'll most likely jump on 1080P bandwagon, but for now I'm fully enjoying my little Optoma.... and I'll enjoy it even more once my basement is done... :rolleyes: ;) :D

I am so confused, I dont know where to use an upconverter in my setup Im trying to plan out.
Im wondering would it be best to use the HD65's upconverter from a inexpensive receiver that can at least put everything into a single HDMI input to the HD65.
Or get a receiver that upconverts at a decent price point of like 400-500$ hopefully lower.
Or buy a upconverting DVD player and the same reciever used in plan one.
I have no idea which setup would look best and have the least cost involved.
I wish I could find a video or picture of what the HD65 looks like with standard 480i/p running to it from a DVD player so I can see how bad or good normal dvd looks with its(hd65) built in upconverter.

Ok, I finally got one of these units and the picture is so much brighter than my hd70 and i am very happy.


2 things that are bothering me:

1-No color/tint adjustments come up on screen for me...I am using hdmi through a Onkyo 606 with pass through set on hdmi. My BD player is a LG bh200.

2-Superwide doesnt work for me...I set it to auto and it crops all 1:85 on top an bottom. On 2:35 it doesnt do anything...I can see where the black bars at bottom and top have split in half and half are black and half are a lighter black...


Can someone explain this in detail i sure would appreciate it.:confused:

Well it seems my bulb flickering is back. What should I do, should I call optoma? And will they take for ever to take care of it. Also will they alow me just to swap the lamp or will I have to send the projector? Any help is much appreciated :)

Try calling them, in my case (in Canada) my warranty for bulb has expired. Optoma told me to sent them the unit for evaluation, (so I have to pay for shipping), then there is a chance they would blame it on the lamp or something else, in which case is even more $$$. I was hoping they will advise to perform some tests before send them the unit, but they haven't get back to me on that one. I was little disapointed how they handled the issue :rolleyes:

Myself I get bulb flickering once in a while, from what I understand (I was told by much more experianced users) it could be normal in the first 100-200 hrs of the bulb for it to flicker. (at least I hope so ;)) As you probably already found out the quick and dirty workaround for 'flickering issue' is to change bulb from economy to normal (for few minutes) and back to economy mode (sorry but I don't remember proper names), you can find it somewhere in the advanced lamp settings. Other than annoying flickering problem from time to time, I really like this little guy. ;)

Good luck ! :D

Well it seems my bulb flickering is back. What should I do, should I call optoma? And will they take for ever to take care of it. Also will they alow me just to swap the lamp or will I have to send the projector? Any help is much appreciated :)

Really need help guys.

I need a Projector ceiling mount that extends at least 33 inch's. Similar to This <----------- (http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/searchtools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1460233&pagenumber=1&RSort=1&csid=ITD&recordsPerPage=5&body=#ReviewStart)

Apparently that one does not work with the Optoma HD65.

I just can't seem to find one, and most are closer to $300.

Was wondering if anyone knew of one, or is currently using one of that fashion.

Hit online stores/auction sites, monoprice, etc, look for the mounts that have square down pole that are not welded but rather held at top plate and bottom plate by wing nuts/bolts/etc. Buy standard mount and get replacement down pole in correct length. I bet it could be done for under $60 complete,. probably less. I think Monoprice also sells mounts that may come close to your drop length and then you buy additional extension to make final length

I re-measured and realized I could get by with 25 (or a bit more) inch's if I can do a slight tilt. Then use Keystone to square up the picture.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=108&cp_id=10828&cs_id=1082803&p_id=3010&seq=1&format=2

That seems to be perfect. However, does it even work with the Optoma HD65? Can't find any info.

Optoma has a three hole pattern so before you buy, call them up and ask if arms can be moved into three hole pattern, and what happens to fourth. May not get WAF if 4th just hangs there. Other than that, you may have to buy right size screws for PJ. PM me if you want info on my mount (fleabay).

I am using the following mount from Monoprice on my HD65. They also have a 24" extension available.. So this should work for you.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=108&cp_id=10828&cs_id=1082803&p_id=3874&seq=1&format=2

Thanks for the help guys. I decided to go with the one I posted in black.

I talked to two separate live help representatives and they both said it will match a three hole pattern. Apparently the arms can move any way you want them in a 360 radius. So I assume I will just have a spare arm.

I have a question, someone told me that with projectors you shouldnt run then over 3 hrs at any given time. Is this true?
I know Ive read this HD65 gets hot, but can it be ran over 3hrs or does it shut itself down eventually? How about if its in a well cooled room around 70F and its not obstructed in ventalation in any way, do you think it will be fine?

I have a question, someone told me that with projectors you shouldnt run then over 3 hrs at any given time. Is this true?
I know Ive read this HD65 gets hot, but can it be ran over 3hrs or does it shut itself down eventually? How about if its in a well cooled room around 70F and its not obstructed in ventalation in any way, do you think it will be fine?

That's for LCD PJs with organic panels although many LCD owners will tell you they run theirs much longer than that without a problem. At least two companies have specified in previous model PJ warranties that use over a certain number of continuous hours will void the warranty.

You have a dlp so crank it as long as you want. I've read elsewhere here in the forums of someone running a dlp for 4 years straight 24/7.

I have a question, someone told me that with projectors you shouldnt run then over 3 hrs at any given time. Is this true?
I know Ive read this HD65 gets hot, but can it be ran over 3hrs or does it shut itself down eventually? How about if its in a well cooled room around 70F and its not obstructed in ventalation in any way, do you think it will be fine?
Interesting that you should mention that....

My recently purchased HD65 only has about 150hrs. on it, and yesterday I had the occasion to run it 10hrs. straight..
No problem whatsoever..I do however have a ceiling exhaust fan near the ceiling mounted projector..and I'm sure this helps considerably..

I put my hand on top of the projector after 10hrs running, and it was just warm!
In a cooled room, you could run it all day..

So, is that still true today's LCD's?...Im interested in not only the HD65 but the Sanyo Z60 if I am susceptible to RBE too much.

Please watch the Youtube video on the Monoprice ceiling mount! It is short & sweet and fantastic! The directions are absolutely terrible! I like simple directions but I had to take it all apart and basically start all over after the Youtube video. Fired up the HD65 for the first time tonite and now my family finally realizes what I was so excited about!

Ok, so I was just informed the newest mitsubishi RPTV's are 14400RPM 5 segment color wheels RGBCY(weird theres no magenta). The HD65 is a six segment RGBCMY correct? I was calculating that if 3600RPM is a X1 wheel then 4x that is 14400RPM. So, that means they are physically the same speed...does that mean the RBE will be similar between them? In meaning...since I could barely tell RBE on the mitsubishi RPTV, it should be the same with the HD65 right? Thanks

I'm sure this has been answered before, forgive me, but I just hooked up my Onkyo HT-S894 system receiver & dvd player but can't get the screen to stretch the full 16:9. I have it chosen on the projector and the DVD player. What am I doing wrong? When I had the HD65 connected directly to the DVD player, the screen was fine.

Thanks!!

Hi,
I'm curious about connect AVR with my AVR. I've AVR Onkyo876 that come with good scaler.
What signal I should send to HD65 when connect with HTPC?
If the movie from HTPC are 720/1080 (i/p),AVR should set to upscale to 1080p or 720p before send to HD65 ? (HD65 will downscale to 720p if I connect with 1080p) or I'd should set it passthrough the signal.?

What much different btw HD65 vs HD20.?
All I know ,it's just only Contrast ratio, Lumens and Resolution.
Do I have a good reason to move to HD20?

Hi,
I'm curious about connect AVR with my AVR. I've AVR Onkyo876 that come with good scaler.
What signal I should send to HD65 when connect with HTPC?


Sounds like you have a bit of research to do, but I'll make one suggestion that should help you with whatever display you buy: it's best to feed it whatever the native resolution is (in the case of the HD65, that's 720p). That assumes the "scaler" in the source is better than the one in the display (which isn't hard to do with the HD65). You can always run "tests" with different sources and different resolutions, but now that we have fancy chipsets in digital media players (HQV, Anchor Bay, etc.), you typically want to scale to the native resolution of the display device.

Yes, feeding the HD65 720p produces the 'cleanest' (shortest, and least visible) handshake. Sending it 1080p (directly from a PS3) produces (for me) an ugly and overly-lengthy initial handshake sequence as everything 'adjusts'.

It definitely 'likes' 720p best, IME. :)

+1 for 720P

My HTPC looks best sending 1280x720 native signal to the PJ ;)

+2 for 720P

Sorry for not reading through 51 pages plus of thread, but I would like to know what screen Guitarman used for this projector? I used a custom paint mix of a shade of grey to bring out blacks, but I do not know if his recommended settings will work with it. It is a paint mix recommended on this site, but I can't remember what it was called. Any help is much appreciated.

Sorry for not reading through 51 pages plus of thread, but I would like to know what screen Guitarman used for this projector? I used a custom paint mix of a shade of grey to bring out blacks, but I do not know if his recommended settings will work with it. It is a paint mix recommended on this site, but I can't remember what it was called. Any help is much appreciated.

Google™ Search AVS: + guitarman hd65 screen = HP

I really hope someone can help me.

I had my Optoma HD65 working for some 6 months. Then I bought an Xbox 360, and started to play Halo 3, it asked me to switch to 60Hz, and I did. Right away the screen on my projector turned black and white, and a few seconds later the projector just stopped working!!!

Now when I start the projector, it will try to start up, I can even hear the fan and everything, but it cannot. And after maybe 30s, the "light-bulb-lab" (red light) is put on...

I'm desperate... And I cannot find the receipt...

Do I have to buy a new lamp/a new projector?

Please help!

/Fredrik Andersson

I really hope someone can help me.

I had my Optoma HD65 working for some 6 months. Then I bought an Xbox 360, and started to play Halo 3, it asked me to switch to 60Hz, and I did. Right away the screen on my projector turned black and white, and a few seconds later the projector just stopped working!!!

Now when I start the projector, it will try to start up, I can even hear the fan and everything, but it cannot. And after maybe 30s, the "light-bulb-lab" (red light) is put on...

I'm desperate... And I cannot find the receipt...

Do I have to buy a new lamp/a new projector?

Please help!

/Fredrik Andersson

Sorry to hear your misfortune Fredrik. That sounds pretty awful. If I were in your situation I'd want to reset the HD65. Kinda hard if you're not getting a display. However, perhaps it still takes commands from the remote. If so try resetting back to factory defaults. Here's the sequence using the remote:

1. Menu
2. Left (for Options Menu)
3. Up (puts you at Reset)
4. Enter (select Reset)
5. Right (puts you at Yes confirmation)
6. Enter (select Yes)

I haven't gone through with step 6, but unless there's a 2nd confirmation screen that ought to reset your HD65.

Hope this helps. Let us know ...

Thanks, really appreciate it.

I'll try it tonight when I get home! After that I'll remove the lamp and put it back again... If not... asta la vista... :(

Sorry to ask somethings that I'm sure were covered already but:

1) While watching TV, some of the stations appear "cut off" as in when they show the producers name,etc. at the bottom. What can I check?

2) I'm haven't hooked up our Wii or XBox 360 yet because I have read in previous threads that it "messes" up the entire system???

Thanks for your help and patience!!!!

It may be overscan by the projector or zooming by the cable/satellite box.

FYI:
Optoma Canada is "re introducing" the HD65 as ET700X through C....o!!! Same machine but black.
On sale as of Monday with $100 off. My 2.5 year HD65 is working like a charme.

had my hd65 for 9 months now with no problems at all and i watch it every day for at least 2 hours. wonderful unit. im keeping an eye in the hd20 though. might just have to put the hd20 in my bedroom :)

Any further word on the 120Hz upgrade?

Thanks for the info heiwi. It's still more money than I would want to spend though. Although the thing that is holding me back from jumping on the HD65/HD640/ET700XE is the state of my basement. Until I remove the old ceiling and walls and drywall the room (as well as run wiring) I'm stuck reading and not watching. My Kuro will hold me over until the room gets done. Hopefully a guy can get a good PJ for pennies in the beginning/middle of 2010. C'mon recession pricing. *fingers crossed*

I really hope someone can help me.

I had my Optoma HD65 working for some 6 months. Then I bought an Xbox 360, and started to play Halo 3, it asked me to switch to 60Hz, and I did. Right away the screen on my projector turned black and white, and a few seconds later the projector just stopped working!!!

Now when I start the projector, it will try to start up, I can even hear the fan and everything, but it cannot. And after maybe 30s, the "light-bulb-lab" (red light) is put on...

I'm desperate... And I cannot find the receipt...

Do I have to buy a new lamp/a new projector?

Please help!

/Fredrik Andersson

Sorry for missing this, did you find your receipt? Maybe you can get the dealer to print you another one or print one yourself with the date and company.
You'll need it becase seeing a black and white image tells me your colorwheel broke up. You can confirm it by taking the bulb out looking for pieces of glass, look over the color wheel through small opening.

Any further word on the 120Hz upgrade?

Nothing yet, they may pass the job onto me. I'll find out more but they did say they were waiting for Sonys 3D blu ray to finalize the format.

Did we ever get official confirmation the the current HD65 owners will be able to get this via firmware upgrade?

It was a yes but they're waiting to Sony to finalize the 3D blu ray.

Can anyone tell me how many Mhz the Optoma HD65 currently runs at? I know they are talking about the upgrade to 120 but what does it currently run at?
Thanks for the info

Thanks for the review. I think I might have to check one of these out in person.

I would stay away from all Optoma Projectors. Their specified bulb life is bogus and the company is very unethical.

I have two bulbs that both went out with less than 600 hours.

...

On paper their specifications look good, but you better include $300 per year for a new lamp in you calculations.

Do some research this is not a unique problem.

Optoma had ONE projector that suffered from a shortened lamp life problem. Many many many other Optomas continue to this day without that problem.

I can understand your feelings about Optoma because of your history but it does not affect 99% of Optoma owners today and probably won't since that one PJ model.

As for lamp life - it's not guaranteed for any PJ and there is always someone who can say they had a lamp go out early. It happens.

If you are not comfortable with the cost of a new lamp, buy the Mack warranty that will provide up to three replacement lamps for $100 or so. You will probably never need it but it will give you peace of mind.

As you say, do your research - you will find that everything I have said above is true and more. Fried LCD panels, fried polarizing panels, broken color wheels, dead circuitry, dead fans, lamp flickering, exploding lamps, burning PJs... etc, etc, etc...

It's all out there, and has happened to every brand. Go read about the Panasonic AX100u - ouch! That hurt, but Panny has survived and continued to provide excellent products.

CAVEAT EMPTOR

Was thinking of upgrading to the HD20 or other 1080 projector. Then I watched the NFL game last night on a 165" screen. Think I'll stay with this. Pleased all over again.

Yee.....Haw!!!! :)
the HD65 is due to arrive today by UPS! Got a great deal on it! Can hardly wait for the doorbell to ring!!

I have the HD65, i love this little projector, and the 120hz 3d upgrade is just the icing on the cake. I currently run the HD65 through my computer and use Classic Media player and the picture is mindblowing for a 720p projector, the picture is so sharp more so when i use ffdshow settings, Guitarman do you know how Optoma plans on updating the firmware for users who have already purchased the HD65, keep up the good work i read most of your posts and find them fantastic reading, i look forward to your reply.

Cheers

"I have the HD65, i love this little projector."

Me too! Have owned one since shortly after their introduction. Best entertainment money I've spent on anything! (And I've been around a long time.)

Well .................

The HD65 finally arrived on friday! I've been looking at the box all saturday, scared to open it. It seems so unreal- I mean, the thought of us soon having our own "little movie theatre" ...

Now, all I have to do is to order the HDMI (whatever that is) cable, the 3-coloured RCA cable(?), as well as the ceiling mount. Does anyone currently reading this have any recommendations to make to this two left-handed, "modern-day technology illiterate" fuddy-duddy?

Would be tremendously grateful for any suggestions or words of advice!

Have a wonderful Sunday, y'all!

Well .................

The HD65 finally arrived on friday! I've been looking at the box all saturday, scared to open it. It seems so unreal- I mean, the thought of us soon having our own "little movie theatre" ...

Now, all I have to do is to order the HDMI (whatever that is) cable, the 3-coloured RCA cable(?), as well as the ceiling mount. Does anyone currently reading this have any recommendations to make to this two left-handed, "modern-day technology illiterate" fuddy-duddy?

Would be tremendously grateful for any suggestions or words of advice!

Have a wonderful Sunday, y'all!

For cables, go to Monoprice.com
For ceiling mount go to mountdirect.com

Thanks for the update Tom. Waiting on the Sony 3D spec makes sense.

If we end up sending our HD65s to you for a firmware upgrade, how about an ISF bundle price? :cool:

:DWell .................

The HD65 finally arrived on friday! I've been looking at the box all saturday, scared to open it. It seems so unreal- I mean, the thought of us soon having our own "little movie theatre" ...

Now, all I have to do is to order the HDMI (whatever that is) cable, the 3-coloured RCA cable(?), as well as the ceiling mount. Does anyone currently reading this have any recommendations to make to this two left-handed, "modern-day technology illiterate" fuddy-duddy?

Would be tremendously grateful for any suggestions or words of advice!

Have a wonderful Sunday, y'all!

Set her up on any available table with a clean wall nearby. Turn on. Be amazed at the Blue. The next thing that hits you is the geometry. Perfectly square corners. Coming from a tube TV, that's a big Wow. That'll keep you good for the first hour.

Then you know you've just got to hook it up to something. See that DVD player? Bring that puppy over and connect it with that "3-coloured RCA cable" into the COMPONENT connection of both devices. Now you're cooking! Doesn't matter that it's standard DVD, because the awe just keeps coming, sound optional. In fact, screw the audio. Just glom onto that picture. You'll watch an entire movie without sound this way.

And if you start feeling a little woozy, tear your eyes away. That's just DLP Stoner Syndrome. That'll go away with experience and lower ft/lamps once you've got her setup right.

Enjoy!

I really hope someone can help me.

I had my Optoma HD65 working for some 6 months. Then I bought an Xbox 360, and started to play Halo 3, it asked me to switch to 60Hz, and I did. Right away the screen on my projector turned black and white, and a few seconds later the projector just stopped working!!!

Now when I start the projector, it will try to start up, I can even hear the fan and everything, but it cannot. And after maybe 30s, the "light-bulb-lab" (red light) is put on...


Zubayr - I am having the same exact problem. Did you ever resolve this? If so, can you share how? My projector is 10 months old w/ 320 hours on the bulb. Very frustrating...

Thanks for the update Tom. Waiting on the Sony 3D spec makes sense.

If we end up sending our HD65s to you for a firmware upgrade, how about an ISF bundle price? :cool:

You bet, I can tune them puppies up, lets see what happens I keep bringing the 3D upgrade up when I talk to Wing. The minute they settle on a firmware format we're all set.

Thanks for the suggestions, reconlabtech and acksnay. I have just ordered the ceiling mount from mountdirect as suggested.

But ere I order the cables from monoprice, I have the following 2 questions, which to some might seem rather silly; but I am after all, an absolute novice at this:

1. Since I am supposed to be getting a Comcast high definition cable box (we used to, until recently, have an antenna), do I connect the DVD player to the projector via it, or do I connect the cable box and the player separately to the projector?

2. Monoprice has different types of HDMI and RCA cables; the person I spoke to said all would work. Since I trust y'all more than I trust a salesman, could you let me know which types would be best for the HD65?

acksnay ... will do as you suggested later on today ...

Many thanks in advance for all suggestions!

Reconlabtech.....how does the 65 compare to your 70?

Also....has anyone here been using this on a regular basis or even as your main/only display?(do you watch HDTV/movies and sports on it)
If so......what hours are you up to problem free?

Reconlabtech.....how does the 65 compare to your 70?

The HD65 has half the offset of the HD70, uses the RGBCYM color wheel and TI's Brilliant II programming for bc.

There seemd to be a slightly higher incident rate of problems than the HD70 but that could be more owners showing up on AVS as AVS became more popular with the budget crowd. :) If my HD70 had failed before last month i would have easily changed over to the HD65 but now that the HD20 is out there... come on HD70, stop being sooooo reliable! I have until Oct 2010 to make Best Buy replace it when it fails. Yes, I did buy the extended warranty but i got my PJ for $783 so it was worth it or so it seemed at the time. now nearly 3 years later, I have had zero problems and nothing but pure big screen enjoyment.
Both of my sons came home from the theater this year after watching Terminator:Salvation, Transformers:Revenge, and GI Joe saying they were disappointed in the overall experience versus watching at home with 7 channel surround, 350 watt sub, and butt kickers. OnlyStar Trek in the IMAX theater got a satisfactory review.
I use a painted screen employing the Easyflex formula from the DIY screen forum. I'm thinking about trying the Black Widow formula but I need a much smoother surface first as my wall is smooth but not as smooth as it could be so I'm sure I lose a little bit of light and sharpness right there.

Magnomax:

For connecting your video sources to the projector, you basically have two options:

1. Since you are going to need equipment to produce sound anyways, get yourself a good Home Theatre Receiver. With this, you connect all of your devices (i.e. DVD player, Blu Ray Player, Cable Box, etc.) to your receiver and then run a single HDMI to HDMI cable from the receiver to the projector. The home theatre receiver will do all of the video and audio switching for you.

2. You connect all of the video outputs from your equipment (i.e. DVD Player, cable box, etc.) directly to the projector. You will still require sound so you will need to connect audio outputs to a receiver to play the audio.

My recommendation is that you use option 1 above. You can keep your equipment at a convenient location and then run one long HDMI cable to the projector. So you need to order an HDMI to HDMI cable, long enough to go from your receiver to the projector, from Monoprice. In addition, you will need smaller cables (likely another HDMI to HDMI to connect your HD cable box to the Home Theatre receiver) as well from Monoprice.

As new Home Theatre receiver models are coming out, there are good deals out there on last years models. Having Denon models myself, I am most familiar with these. I would suggest you hunt around for a Denon AVR-789 (889 or 989 are better but more $). This model will decode the HD audio formats (Denon's lower 589 and 689 models will not). Another good choice would be an Onkyo 606.

Good Luck!!

acksnay ... contrary to my intentions, I have not yet been able to have "That OOB (out of box) experience", as things have not yet quietened down here at home (screaming grandkids all over the place :))

Hooters23 ... Many, many thanks for your advice. Although following it would put me over budget, I probably will heed option#1.

However I am confused by the different types of HDMI cable available at monoprice:

1. HDMI Tin-Plated Copper CL2 Rated (for In-Wall Installation) Cable (24AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)
2. HDMI CL2 Rated (In-Wall Installation) FLAT Cable (24AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)
3. HDMI Silver-Plated Copper CL2 Rated (For In-Wall Installation) Cable (22AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)
4. HDMI Tin-Plated Copper CL2 Rated (for In-Wall Installation) Cable (22AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)
5. High Speed HDMI 1.3a Category 2 Certified Silver-Plated Copper CL2 Rated (For In-Wall Installation) Cable (22AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)
6. High Speed HDMI 1.3a Category 2 Certified CL2 Rated (In-Wall Installation) Cable (22AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)

I would require some 25-30 ft of cable; which type of HDMI cable would be right for the Optoma HD65?

You guys are probabaly laughing your heads off at my questions, but I remember my professor once telling me that there are no "stupid questions"- just stupid "answers"! With that in mind, I'll hit "ENTER" ...

following it would put me over budget, I probably will heed option#1.

However I am confused by the different types of HDMI cable available at monoprice:

1. HDMI Tin-Plated Copper CL2 Rated (for In-Wall Installation) Cable (24AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)
2. HDMI CL2 Rated (In-Wall Installation) FLAT Cable (24AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)
3. HDMI Silver-Plated Copper CL2 Rated (For In-Wall Installation) Cable (22AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)
4. HDMI Tin-Plated Copper CL2 Rated (for In-Wall Installation) Cable (22AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)
5. High Speed HDMI 1.3a Category 2 Certified Silver-Plated Copper CL2 Rated (For In-Wall Installation) Cable (22AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)
6. High Speed HDMI 1.3a Category 2 Certified CL2 Rated (In-Wall Installation) Cable (22AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)

I would require some 25-30 ft of cable; which type of HDMI cable would be right for the Optoma HD65?

You guys are probabaly laughing your heads off at my questions, but I remember my professor once telling me that there are no "stupid questions"- just stupid "answers"! With that in mind, I'll hit "ENTER" ...

No one is laughing, I was in the same boat as you when ordering from monoprice... ;)

Any of the cables you've listed would be work, buy whatever you can afford or is on special. Myself I bought 25ft 22AWG 1.3a either #5 or #6 (sorry but I don't remember) from monoprice and I had no issues at all. Since my PJ will be in the basement (still WIP :rolleyes:) all my cables are now in the drywall and I had borrow a 25ft from my bro-in-law so I can enjoy PJ in my livingroom. It was cheaper 24AWG version and I haven't seen any issues with it.

Good Luck ! :D

acksnay ... contrary to my intentions, I have not yet been able to have "That OOB (out of box) experience", as things have not yet quietened down here at home (screaming grandkids all over the place :))

Hooters23 ... Many, many thanks for your advice. Although following it would put me over budget, I probably will heed option#1.

However I am confused by the different types of HDMI cable available at monoprice:

1. HDMI Tin-Plated Copper CL2 Rated (for In-Wall Installation) Cable (24AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)
2. HDMI CL2 Rated (In-Wall Installation) FLAT Cable (24AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)
3. HDMI Silver-Plated Copper CL2 Rated (For In-Wall Installation) Cable (22AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)
4. HDMI Tin-Plated Copper CL2 Rated (for In-Wall Installation) Cable (22AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)
5. High Speed HDMI 1.3a Category 2 Certified Silver-Plated Copper CL2 Rated (For In-Wall Installation) Cable (22AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)
6. High Speed HDMI 1.3a Category 2 Certified CL2 Rated (In-Wall Installation) Cable (22AWG) - (Gold Plated Connectors)

I would require some 25-30 ft of cable; which type of HDMI cable would be right for the Optoma HD65?

You guys are probabaly laughing your heads off at my questions, but I remember my professor once telling me that there are no "stupid questions"- just stupid "answers"! With that in mind, I'll hit "ENTER" ...

I second Clark17's advice for purchasing the highest quality HDMI cable you feel comfortable with. Since you only need 1 cable (besides power) to the HD65, make it a good one. ;) There's a nice chart of HDMI specs a little below midway in this (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HDMI) page. All the current available cable specs beyond version 1.0 are mostly to support various audio enhancements. It isn't until you get to HDMI version 1.4 (which isn't commercially available yet) when things get interesting with 3D HDTV and Ethernet over HDMI (EoH?). :D If you've been following this thread, you'll know that an upgraded version of the HD65 will support 3D, though not at full 1080p resolution [which begs the question if current HDMI cables will support 3D HDTV @ 720p x 60Mhz x 2]. Bottom line: A bit over a buck a foot for longer runs of HDMI cable is quite reasonable.

But you're going to need more than that one long HDMI cable feeding video to your HD65. Key question: what do you plan to use for audio? That'll help determine how it all comes together.

Well I thought I would post my experience so far here on this projector...

I bought it in May of this year, and used it pretty much every day for about 4-5 hrs on average I would say. I did purchase the Mack Bulb warranty (from Tapeworks Texas) when I bought the projector.

About 2 weeks ago the bulb popped on it, I'd guess around 400-500 hrs on the bulb (can't check now)

Here's the kicker, apparently Mack Camera has some hidden stipulation that on refurbished projectors you MUST buy the warranty on the same day the projector is purchased. I can not find this stipulation on their website, nor does it say anything like this on the warranty card (on the Tapeworks Texas site it says you must register within 30 days of purchasing your projector) Because of this, they are now denying my warranty claim...

When purchasing the warranty I sent an email to the Tapeworks Texas guy and asked him specifically about if this was good for refurbished projectors, and he said it was all good etc etc, and never mentioned anything about this stipulation.

Now my questions are:
1) Has anyone heard of this Mack Camera stipulation??
2) Do you think I have any recourse with Mack or Texas Tapeworks (waiting to talk to them on Monday)?
3) Where can I purchase a bulb in Canada for a decent price if I get shut down by the above companies?

Thanks!

You should try to post in this thread
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1088544

and hopefully Mack's representative Alex solomon will give you an answer.

Quick question...I'm trying to figure out how accurate the screen calculator is. Ideally I was looking at trying to achieve a 140" screen at a 20' distance from projector to screen. The calculator has me at about 170" screen from that distance. Does anyone know if I will be able to get 140" at 20' (don't know if the projector will let me adjust the size at all). If anyone is using a 140" screen and could tell me what distance you are at that would be great as well!

I was hoping to get by using a white screen with a 1.0 gain for use in my garage. I think the screen calculator is suggesting 1.5 at that distance so any additional input on that would be great!

Projector comes this week and I'm trying to get a jump on ordering the proper size screen material. Thanks!

clark17 ... Many thanks for your advice; I shall place the order for the HDMI cables with Monoprice saspo.

acksnay ... Still haven't set up the HD65, which is still languishing in its box. With all the rain we have been having, the ground is oversaturated with water and trees are falling left, right and center (at last count, 2 uprooted trees in our backyard). To answer your "Key Question", I thought I'd go with Hooters23 suggestion and purchase a Denon AVR-789 (used, if possible), since no one contradicted the suggestion or made another. Knowing absolutely nothing about Home Theaters, I did, prior to stumbling across this Forum, consider purchasing the SONY HTSS360 5.1 Channel HTS.

You see, I was, in my "old life", as so-called "paper pusher" and have- to this day, absolutely ZERO knowledge of technical subjests. This also applies to using tools OTHER than hammers, screwdrivers and pliers!!! :o

Believe it or not, guys like myself ACTUALLY DO EXIST!!!

So y'all will surely understand how much I appreciate any advice! :):):)

You should try to post in this thread
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1088544

and hopefully Mack's representative Alex solomon will give you an answer.


Just to make a correction. Alex solomon is not Macks representative. I am:D

Just so that there is no confusion.

Magnomax:

You can purchase refurbished Denon receivers, which include warranty, from Dakmart. A refurbished AVR-789 can be had for about $330.

There is a lot of discussion on the receivers forum regarding this and many other models. If you do decide to go with the 789, you should read this discussion:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1050097

In particular, post number 783 within that discussion provides step by step directions on how to properly set up the receiver. It may seem daunting at first, but the receiver through the use of the supplied microphone (simply plug it into the front of the receiver) will do most of the work automatically. If you run into any trouble at all, there is always someone here that is willing to help.

Magnomax:

One last thing,

BIG PICTURE + BIG SOUND = :eek: AMAZING :D

You will never want to go to the movie theater again.

Good luck and enjoy!! Getting there is half the fun! And knowing you did it yourself = priceless!!

Received my HD65 two days ago and I am completely shocked and amazed! I ordered this for my garage to watch sports with the neighbors and do a little gaming...now I want this thing in my house!

If anyone is on the fence on this projector it's time to pull the trigger. I have a 140" picture on a white painted wall on my garage and it's just incredible. The picture is almost going from the ceiling to the floor. Even with the LIGHTS ON in the garage the picture is still unbelievably bright (even with lamp in standard mode).

The only problem I am having is the amount of traffic that slows down to look in to see what's going on over here...simply awesome!

Bought one of these refurbished and it's my first projector. Even at 100 inches on a cream colored wall the image is pretty damn amazing. I have it set up in my basement which is totally light controlled. Hard to believe 1920x1080 would offer an improvement over what I'm getting but I know there must be one. From what I've read, by the time a film gets to the theater, its been duped so many times it only has 700 to 800 vertical lines of resolution, so what I'm seeing is close to what i'd get at the movies, save IMAX. My only complaint is that, yes, I do see rainbows. Pretty often. I edit video for a living so my eyes are pretty highly attuned to subtle changes in images. Luckily I had an ND2 filter from an old video camera that fit perfectly into the lens, which helped both the rainbows somewhat and the black levels. Some other observations. I see them more when outputting a 1080p 24fps image from my blu-ray player. I noticed I can hear the color wheel slowing down when it switches to this rate, probably to sync with the slower refresh rate, but consequently I can see more rainbows. I just leave it at 60 hz, and really, I don't notice a difference in image smoothness. I also see rainbows less on 60 frame material, like sports, news or video games, which makes me believe it's the slower 24 frames a second rate of films that also makes rainbows more visible. RBE is tied into persistence of vision, so it makes sense the longer a single frame is displayed the more likely eyes would notice the color separation. Anyway, I only notice the rainbows on darkly lit films like The Dark Knight, and they flash by pretty quickly for me. I can ignore them most of the time. For what I paid I have an amazing, film-like image and couldn't be more pleased with it.

You may find that the RBE will dissipate over time..

When I bought my first DLP projector, I saw rainbows all over the place..
After about a month, I rarely saw them..and now with the HD65..I haven't seen any!..and yes, the HD65 is a great little unit..

I purchased an HD65 new from staples about a month ago because I had a gift card.

It worked great for a couple weeks but now on the right side there is some problem with what appears to be the bulb. My last projecter was an SP4085 and it worked great for 4000 hours.

There is a semi-circle style arc on top of the image that is rainbow in color. It doesn't matter what input I use, and even if there is no image being sent to it (self test/menu displayed) it still has the defect.

Does this sound familiar to anyone??

I purchased an HD65 new from staples about a month ago because I had a gift card.

It worked great for a couple weeks but now on the right side there is some problem with what appears to be the bulb. My last projecter was an SP4085 and it worked great for 4000 hours.

There is a semi-circle style arc on top of the image that is rainbow in color. It doesn't matter what input I use, and even if there is no image being sent to it (self test/menu displayed) it still has the defect.

Does this sound familiar to anyone??

pull your bulb and reseat it. that might help.

pull your bulb and reseat it. that might help.

I will try that. I also have a spare bulb that was purchased with the unit. Did not want to unpack it if I did not have to though.

Sounds like a dust problem. A bunch of pages back it was mentioned in this thread.

I am a complete rookie getting close to pulling the trigger on the Optoma HD65. I will be putting it in my basement with very low ceilings, probably a little over 7 feet high. Is there anything I need to worry about with the HD65 with low ceilings or any helpful advice I should think about?
I'm asking this because as I stroll through all these helpful threads I notice a lot of people talking about ceiling height.
Many thanks in advance!

I will be putting it in my basement with very low ceilings, probably a little over 7 feet high. Is there anything I need to worry about with the HD65 with low ceilings or any helpful advice I should think about?

The ceiling in my basement HT is 7' 3". I have it ceiling mounted with a mount that I picked up on EBa*. Search for Projector Gear mount.

The HD65 does not allow for any lens shifting and has a very limited zoom. I highly recommend, if you haven't done so already, to use the Projector Central calculator for screen size and placement.
http://www.projectorcentral.com/Optoma-HD65-projection-calculator-pro.htm
It sure helped to save me a lot of aggravation with placement. Note that there is a button to select for ceiling mount if that is what you are going to do.

One other thing, if you are going to ceiling mount, this projector does throw some light leakage around the unit. If you can, paint your ceiling with a dark(er) paint.

hi i wan't to buy one but I have a problem with celling to(I think)my celling is to low:confused: I want to put pj to 13 feet and rigt there distance is floor to celling is 6 feet 8 inches what shout I need to do:confused:


sory for my english:)

pls check this
http://img117.imageshack.us/img117/1488/roomq.jpg

The ceiling in my basement HT is 7' 3". I have it ceiling mounted with a mount that I picked up on EBa*. Search for Projector Gear mount.

The HD65 does not allow for any lens shifting and has a very limited zoom. I highly recommend, if you haven't done so already, to use the Projector Central calculator for screen size and placement.
http://www.projectorcentral.com/Optoma-HD65-projection-calculator-pro.htm
It sure helped to save me a lot of aggravation with placement. Note that there is a button to select for ceiling mount if that is what you are going to do.

One other thing, if you are going to ceiling mount, this projector does throw some light leakage around the unit. If you can, paint your ceiling with a dark(er) paint.

Many thanks. Doing a quick look it looks like the closest ceiling mount is 4". This should work for me. Thanks!

Minimum space between ceiling and projector I belive it is 5". The throw offset at 13 feet is 9.8", the size of the screen without using zoom will give you about 105", which is 51", so if you add A+B+C you get about 66" ~5.5ft. So I guess if you don't massive baseboard triming, ceilign crown or wide frame you should be just fine... Please double check my calculations using link from the above post... :D

good luck ;)

hi i wan't to buy one but I have a problem with celling to(I think)my celling is to low:confused: I want to put pj to 13 feet and rigt there distance is floor to celling is 6 feet 8 inches what shout I need to do:confused:


sory for my english:)

pls check this
http://img117.imageshack.us/img117/1488/roomq.jpg

@ clark17 thx for help one more pic I send can you check pls.

http://img260.imageshack.us/img260/6381/room2.jpg

nevermind guys to much in my contury like 1200 dolars I will buy sanyo z 60 it's
1250 and easy to mounting,but I like optoma.

Good evening everybody,
I am new to AVSforums...and I need your help please!
I purchased a HD65 several months ago, but it is now that I had a chance to use it on a regular basis. I had it connected to an Onkio 606 receiver, using the HDMI out from the receiver. I was able to watch all components connected to the 606 (philips blu ray player, Directv DVR, RCA upconverting DVD player) without problems for a couple of weeks.
2 nights ago, I turned on the 606 and hooked the HDMI to the HD65, turned on the projector...and there was no image! The projector does not detect a signal from the HDMI connection. I tried several HDMI cables, checked the HDMI output setting (I tried "through" and "auto") without success. My Samsung LCD tv displays all signals without a problem.

Interestingly, if I connect the blu ray player directly to the projector. the projector displays the image. However, it does not display the image from the RCA DVd nor the image from the directv DVR when I connect the components through HDMI.

I have not tried component simply because I am not interested in this connection. I want to use HDMI for obvious reasons.

I searched the forum but was unable to find help.

I do not what else to try before I contact Optoma (the projector is under warranty until December of 2009).

Your assistance will be greatly appreciated!!

[QUOTE=framajo23;17349995]
Interestingly, if I connect the blu ray player directly to the projector. the projector displays the image. However, it does not display the image from the RCA DVd nor the image from the directv DVR when I connect the components through HDMI. QUOTE]

So if you connect directly your DVD or DVR you get nothing?, but your BD player works fine... Hmmm... sounds/smells like HDMI handshake issue. If you haven't tried it already; try to limit "auto source scanning" in PJ's menu to HDMI source only. With my OTA HD hooked up with component cables, my HTPC via HDMI sometimes didn't get recognized.

Hi Clark17,

Thank you very much for your suggestion...I will try it and let you know if it works.

I forgot to mention that this problem was not present when I initially hooked up the projector to the HDMIout from my Onkyo 606. It worked for 5-6 times, then it just did not work anymore :(

Does anyone know what the color processing circuity of the HD65 is? Can it make use of the HDMI 1.3 Deep Color specification?

Ramone and Berrymore are the people in pic.

???

???

First post...screen shot...ask's...who are people in shot? The answer is one of the Ramones( I think Mark or Joey Ramone...you know...of the Ramones) and Drew Barrymore.

oh way back on the FIRST page??

...who are the ramones?
(muaa ha ha) totally kidding.

Hi all, I'm new here and read much of the 75 pages of this very long thread. I purchased an HD640 about 6 months ago and have been happy with it so far. For the first time, the projector power green LED is flashing then after a couple minutes the lamp LED illuminates a solid red. I suspect that means the bulb needs replacement already. I have removed and reseated the bulb but that didnt resolve the problem. I have read the manual which appears to confirm that the bulb needs replacement. I tried to physically inspect the bulb and it looks like it may have a few cracks in the glass but I'm not really sure. The warranty on the bulb was only 90 days but I thought it was advertised to last up to 2000 hours. Is it unusual to get only 5% of the maximum life from a bulb. Is it correct that a replacement bulb is about $350 USD? Whew...

By the way, just for fun, has anybody found Windows USB driver software for the service port on the back?

Thanks in advance.

Hi all, I'm new here and read much of the 75 pages of this very long thread. I purchased an HD640 about 6 months ago and have been happy with it so far. For the first time, the projector power green LED is flashing then after a couple minutes the lamp LED illuminates a solid red. I suspect that means the bulb needs replacement already. I have removed and reseated the bulb but that didnt resolve the problem. I have read the manual which appears to confirm that the bulb needs replacement. I tried to physically inspect the bulb and it looks like it may have a few cracks in the glass but I'm not really sure. The warranty on the bulb was only 90 days but I thought it was advertised to last up to 2000 hours. Is it unusual to get only 5% of the maximum life from a bulb. Is it correct that a replacement bulb is about $350 USD? Whew...

By the way, just for fun, has anybody found Windows USB driver software for the service port on the back?

Thanks in advance.
For a lamp assembly replacement, refreshingly inexpensive:
http://www.provantage.com/optoma-bl-fs180c~7OPTO0CP.htm

For a lamp assembly replacement, refreshingly inexpensive:
http://www.provantage.com/optoma-bl-fs180c~7OPTO0CP.htm

wow! i have a mack warranty, but i still may order one as a backup.

what is the "perfect setting" for this bad boy... after sifting through 75 pages of only the most awesome thread ( i love the screen shots) .. and looking at countless settings. Whats the biggest one that most of you on here have agreed that work well ? (Room is pitch black on a High gain screen)., Thanks !

V/R
SGT McCauley

Good evening everybody,
I am new to AVSforums...and I need your help please!
I purchased a HD65 several months ago, but it is now that I had a chance to use it on a regular basis. I had it connected to an Onkio 606 receiver, using the HDMI out from the receiver. I was able to watch all components connected to the 606 (philips blu ray player, Directv DVR, RCA upconverting DVD player) without problems for a couple of weeks.
2 nights ago, I turned on the 606 and hooked the HDMI to the HD65, turned on the projector...and there was no image! The projector does not detect a signal from the HDMI connection. I tried several HDMI cables, checked the HDMI output setting (I tried "through" and "auto") without success. My Samsung LCD tv displays all signals without a problem.

Interestingly, if I connect the blu ray player directly to the projector. the projector displays the image. However, it does not display the image from the RCA DVd nor the image from the directv DVR when I connect the components through HDMI.

I have not tried component simply because I am not interested in this connection. I want to use HDMI for obvious reasons.

I searched the forum but was unable to find help.

I do not what else to try before I contact Optoma (the projector is under warranty until December of 2009).

Your assistance will be greatly appreciated!!

I chose HDMI as the only input as suggested by clark17, but unfortunately the projector continues to recognize only my philips blu ray player. It is not the HDMI cable; I tried 3 different ones with the same result.

clark17, Anything else I can try? Anybody have any suggestions? Thank you!!

First post...screen shot...ask's...who are people in shot? The answer is one of the Ramones( I think Mark or Joey Ramone...you know...of the Ramones) and Drew Barrymore.

That's my old teenage buddy drummer friend Mark Bell (Marky Ramone) who actually played drums in my band before getting a try out for the Ramones. Best drummer in my Brooklyn New York neighborhood. We're still buddies, I even played with the Ramones twice out here in the Bay Area. I guess Mark thought it would be fun to have be back on stage. :)

what is the "perfect setting" for this bad boy... after sifting through 75 pages of only the most awesome thread ( i love the screen shots) .. and looking at countless settings. Whats the biggest one that most of you on here have agreed that work well ? (Room is pitch black on a High gain screen)., Thanks !

V/R
SGT McCauley

The color settings on the first page were spot on perfect for me. Plug those in, get a blue filter and use a calibration disc to verify (or tweak if necessary) that those settings work for your room. The free calibration tool that they have in the display calibration sub forum is great and easy to use. Brightness/contrast is completely relative to your room so it's best to set those from scratch. I have a 100" 16x9 matte white screen and the picture is awesome. IMAX is the only reason to drive to the theater now.

"get a blue filter..."..??? What on earth is a blue filter... sorry for the questions, very very new to the projector world!

Buy Avia or DVE or Sound & Vision guide to home theater, these calibration DVD's come with the blue filter. You use the filter to balance the color and tint, you also get the needed pluge (brightness adjustment pattern) and one for contrast. Order from amazon, Sound and vision is the lower priced one.

That's my old teenage buddy drummer friend Mark Bell (Marky Ramone) who actually played drums in my band before getting a try out for the Ramones. Best drummer in my Brooklyn New York neighborhood. We're still buddies, I even played with the Ramones twice out here in the Bay Area. I guess Mark thought it would be fun to have be back on stage. :)

gimme...gimme shock treatment. That's awesome to have known/met/hung out with any of them. Gimme...gimme new pj buying advice. Hd20 or Epson 8100...? Mostly for dvd but some occasional tv/hdtv/xbox as well.

guitarman - Thanks Sir. ! I have orderd !

I finally ordered the HD65, can't wait. I hope I have the WOW that many of you have. It's my first pj.
As I ponder the exact set up for myself I was wondering if I can use keystoning (I guess that is what it is called) to move the image up the wall a bit to counter some of the vertical offset? It seems like I have heard people say it degrades the image and others say they can't notice any change. Any advice on this?
Many thanks!

gimme...gimme shock treatment. That's awesome to have known/met/hung out with any of them. Gimme...gimme new pj buying advice. Hd20 or Epson 8100...? Mostly for dvd but some occasional tv/hdtv/xbox as well.

I'm not a big fan of LCD's but that looks like a good one, it's $600 more than a HD20. For your viewing habbits you would be more than happy with either one. Got extra bucks shoot for the more expensive one.

I'd love to see them side by side to know for sure. :)

Just ordered today. http://www.1-imageshack.us/images/**************

Well, I ordered one today as well. I have been ancy to get a projector (have hated not having one after always having one since 2003) and when I saw that Costco had them back on their website bundled with a 106" screen I thought I would go ahead and give it a try knowing that if I see rainbows or am not happy in any way I can return it within 90 days for a full refund.

I am mainly looking for a small, bright projector, that for a while will be my main projector and then will become my "travel" and "event" projector. I am not sure if it will be bright enough, but I will try it out and see. The other one I have been eyeing is the Epson 705HD, with 2500 lumens, which can be had for $690 (was officially released this week). I will keep an eye on the reviews that come out for that projector (as well as any other small bright ones) and at some point may get one to do a comparison with the HD65 to decide which one to keep.

Now for some of the slowest days as I wait for the projector (wish I would of ordered it in time for the BYU/TCU game this weekend, watching HD sporting doesn't quite cut it on a 32" LCD after watching for years on a 120" screen). The projectors I have had in the past are the Panasonic L300U, the Sanyo Z5, and the Panasonic AX100.

I pulled the trigger on this today, it will be my first projector as well! Now I'm just trying to figure out what screen I want...so many options to confuse a n00b like myself.

Can someone explain to me the best way to get everything set up and aligned properly? I bought the HD65 and an 84" Elite Manual Pulldown screen, both of which will be mounted from the ceiling. Is it recommended to mount the screen first, and then mount the projo accordingly? Or in the reverse? Also, any tips to ceiling mount the screen if the ceiling is stiplled? I have no idea how to find the studs or whatever I need to find.

In other words: HELP!

Is anyone using their HD65 with a WDTV (or specifically the newer WDTV Live)?

I got my WDTV Live yesterday and started to play around with it for a couple hours ... I can't seem to get the video looking right on my Optoma HD65 projector.

With the default video settings using HDMI there were some odd looking artifacts in the picture.

I Went into the HDMI config on the WDTV Live and set it to 720p/60hz and now artifacts are gone, but the whole screen shakes around slightly as if there was a constant earthquake happening. Anyone know what this is and how to fix it?

Has anyone else experienced this with the WDTV? Is there a different HDMI resolution/hz setting I should use?

I pulled the trigger on this today, it will be my first projector as well! Now I'm just trying to figure out what screen I want...so many options to confuse a n00b like myself.

Honestly...I'm using mine with DIY painted screen (ie painted wall). It turned out ABSOLUTELY PERFECT! I would recommend not buying a screen but instead go the painted route. Very easy and fun to do as well.

Another plus with this is you get a custom size screen if you want.

You mount your projector, get a the size you want of the image on the wall, measure the distance from each side wall to where the picture starts to ensure its even. Outline the picture with tape or pencil etc, paint the screen portion with the DIY mix, and paint the outer portion flat black.

If you want to go this route let me know and I can help you out with any questions you may have.

Honestly...I'm using mine with DIY painted screen (ie painted wall). It turned out ABSOLUTELY PERFECT! I would recommend not buying a screen but instead go the painted route. Very easy and fun to do as well.

Another plus with this is you get a custom size screen if you want.

You mount your projector, get a the size you want of the image on the wall, measure the distance from each side wall to where the picture starts to ensure its even. Outline the picture with tape or pencil etc, paint the screen portion with the DIY mix, and paint the outer portion flat black.

If you want to go this route let me know and I can help you out with any questions you may have.

Good to hear. This is what I plan on doing when my HD65 arrives next week. Can you let me know what type of paint mix you used for the screen?
Also can anyone chime in on keystoning and it's effect on image quality?

Lots of rave about this older 65...how would it compare to the hd20 overall? I have to tell you...those screenshots are really nice looking for 720p.

Can someone link me to where I can pick up a longer power cable for the HD65?

Just ordered mine today! I can't wait to test it out. I ordered a 100" screen to use with it. I plan to use this with my HTPC. I already have two monitors attached to it through DVI/HDMI output. I ordered a powered HDMI splitter from monoprice to split one of the signals. Will this work without issue? I'll probably split it with my 52 inch TV. Will the TV have to be off in order for the video card to sync properly with the projector? Not a problem if this is the case. I'm just trying to get a head start on what to expect.

Thanks for any help.

Hi all, I'm new here and read much of the 75 pages of this very long thread. I purchased an HD640 about 6 months ago and have been happy with it so far. For the first time, the projector power green LED is flashing then after a couple minutes the lamp LED illuminates a solid red. I suspect that means the bulb needs replacement already. I have removed and reseated the bulb but that didnt resolve the problem. I have read the manual which appears to confirm that the bulb needs replacement. I tried to physically inspect the bulb and it looks like it may have a few cracks in the glass but I'm not really sure. The warranty on the bulb was only 90 days but I thought it was advertised to last up to 2000 hours. Is it unusual to get only 5% of the maximum life from a bulb. Is it correct that a replacement bulb is about $350 USD? Whew...

By the way, just for fun, has anybody found Windows USB driver software for the service port on the back?

Thanks in advance.

Welcome to the club. Mine died after 11 months of ownership and 300 hours of use. Optoma now wants $200 to replace it.