What Hi Fi Sound and Vision
06 JUN 2009
Optoma Themescene HD82
The HD82 marks Optoma’s return after a quiet period. With more projectors due this summer, the big-screen beamer market could be in for a shakeup.
Set up isn't quite as simple as with some other projectors. The PureShift lens system delivers some flexibility, but we don’t have the control of the visible image that we do with some rivals.
The throw ratio is slightly shorter than similarly priced machines, but it's still capable of delivering a 150in image from five metres away.
While the HD82 can be installed in the normal array of positions, there is more than a nod to people who want to ceiling mount.
Most connections are on the rear of the unit, ensuring a smart-looking top fascia that’s free from buttons or inputs.
An impressive paper spec
A native Full HD resolution, two HDMIs, one component and one DVI input ensure the projector has the necessary technical specifications, while a claimed contrast ratio of 20,000:1 and a 680:1 ANSI lumens brightness rating bode as well as is possible at this manual-reading stage of proceedings.
Mel Gibson’s Apocalypto is given a natural, measured presentation with good attention to detail and dynamic contrast levels. Black levels are deep and strong with impressive insight, too.
It’s only when we compare it with the class-leading Panasonic PT-AE3000 – which costs around £1000 less – that we’re surprised to see the HD82 struggling.
Motion isn’t handled as smoothly as we’d like, colours lack vibrancy and the Panasonic packs in a greater sense of realism. Naturally, this spells danger for the pricier Optoma.
If you see the HD82 at a knockdown price, go for it – but at £3000, the competition is too fierce.
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