Epson Megaplex MG-850HD WXGA LCD Home Entertainment Projector Review
November 2011 - Mike Rollet
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Epson Megaplex MG-850HD Projector Overview
The Epson Megaplex MG-850HD is a hybrid home theater/multimedia, widescreen WXGA (1280 X 800) LCD projector. I say hybrid because it combines the high brightness (2800 lumens) and resolution of many of Epson’s multimedia projectors with some of the cinema performance of their home theater projectors, hence the “home entertainment” tag. The MG-850HD can be connected to a computer via VGA, USB or HDMI, or to a video source via HDMI, composite or component video. It also allows for projection of slideshows from a USB storage device. Additionally, there’s a built-in iPod dock that allows for projection of video, photos and audio playback from an iPod, iPhone or iPad. The MG-850HD has a rated output of 2800 lumens with a 3000:1 contrast ratio. Two built-in 10 watt stereo speakers, with four audio modes, allow it to be used as a portable home projector without external speakers.
The built-in carrying handle, its compact size and light weight (8.4 lbs.), makes it easy to transport the MG-850HD between different rooms in your home. In addition to the MG-850HD, Epson also makes the MG-50, which has lower resolution (960 X 540), lower lumen output (2200 lumens) and a fixed lens.
Epson MG-850HD Projector Highlights
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High Brightness – rated at 2800 lumens
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Plug 'n Play — USB connection projects video and plays audio from a PC
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Built-in iPod, iPhone and iPad dock
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Built-in 10 watt stereo speakers
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Rapid power on and off
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Epson’s Extra Care Home Service program allows for a rapid replacement projector delivery
Specs for the Epson Megaplex MG-850HD
Click here for full specifications: Epson MG-850HD
MSRP: $799, Street Price: $700
Technology: 3LCD
Native Resolution: WXGA (1280x800)
Brightness: 2800 lumens
Contrast: Up to 3000:1
Zoom Lens ratio: 1.2:1
Lens shift: None
Lamp life: Up to 4000 hours in Normal mode, 5000 hours in Eco mode
Dimensions (Including feet): 13.4"W x 11.5"D x 4.9"H
Weight: 8.4 lbs.
Warranty: 2 years Parts and Labor on projector, 90 days on lamp
Epson MG-850HD Projector Special Features
PCFree Presentation
This feature enables you to display photos (.jpg, .png, .gif and .bmp formats only) stored on a USB storage device, without the use of a PC. Slideshow presentations can then be made from the USB storage device.
Multiple Built-in Audio Modes
The MG-850HD has four different audio modes for its built-in 10-watt speaker system. These are as follows:
- Standard - Outputs sound at standard quality.
- Vocal - Makes voices and dialog easier to hear.
- Music - Clarifies low-pitch and high-pitch sounds.
- Movie - Emphasizes low-pitch and high-pitch sounds.
Built-in iPod, iPhone and iPad Dock
The MG-850HD’s built-in iPod dock allows the user to access music, videos and photos on their iPod, iPhone or iPad. When plugged in, a menu comes up on-screen to access music and other media downloaded from iTunes. Photos taken with an iPhone can be accessed directly from the iPhone, not though the menu. The dock also charges the attached device and allows for music playback either with or without any display.
Auto light sensor
There is a light sensor on the top of the projector that, when the color mode is set on Auto, will select one of the other color modes that’s appropriate for the lighting conditions (i.e.; Dynamic if there’s a lot of ambient light or Cinema if the projector’s in a dark room.