Epson Ensemble HD 1080 Complete Home Theater System Review: Image Quality-8

Posted on October 5, 2013 by Art Feierman

BenQ W10000 DLP projector (DLP's have always had superior black levels and contrast, compared to LCD projectors). Remember exposures (and even the frame, are not identical, however the satellite has some really bright areas, limiting with the dynamic iris can accomplish, yet not so bright that the irises are completely ineffective. The end result - there are definitely more stars visible on the BenQ (it sells for at least $2000 more than the Epson at the time of this writing.)

comparision

Epson Ensemble HD Home Cinema 1080

Sony VPL-VW60

Panasonic PT-AE2000U

Sanyo PLV-2000

Optoma HD8000

InFocus IN82

Epson Home Cinema 1080 Projector: Sharpness

The sharpness of the included Home Cinema 1080 is about average for 1080p projectors. There are definitely a number that are sharper, and a few, not quite as sharp. While sharper is better, keep in mind, that the Epson doing a nice clear 1080i signal from your cable or satellite box, something shot digitally, like football, or the Olympics, is still going to appear visibly sharper than a movie, originally shot with film, even on slightly sharper projectors. That is to say, movies from film are inherently less sharp than a pure 1080 digital source.

The Epson looked fantastic while watching hours of the Olympics, although I could go into the other theater and see that the InFocus IN83 (currently in use there), is sharper. I also know from experience, that my own projector, the JVC DLA-RS1, which just a year ago, was considered by most reviewers to be the best overall home theater projector under $10,000, isn't quite as sharp as the Epson. So there!

Bottom line: There are sharper projectors, but the Epson looks great. Again, the "hard core" enthusiast seeking perfection in all areas, might have a bit of a problem with the sharpness, but millions of potential buyers will not!

I've got a car analogy for you. I own an Infiniti G35. When I bought it there was a second "sportier" version that was slightly faster. When it comes to cars (I also own a Mazda Miata, so, you can believe that I really do enjoy driving), my G35 with its 0-60 mph, in under 6 seconds, is just fine by me.

When it comes to the Epson's sharpness, it's like my G35's acceleration - sure you can do better. The question is, is it important, especially since this projector, like my Infiniti, is a strong performer to begin with!