Optoma HD806 Projector – Image Quality-5

The re-entry image below, is a tough shadow detail test. Projectors with weak black levels and average shadow detail ability tend to generate an image where much of the right side of earth looks to have that flat, lacking in detail look. All projectors pick up some of the brighter features on the right side, while better ones, pick up a lot more and usually have richer blacks as well. In this regard, the HD806 projector does a pretty good job on shadow detail, but not exceptional. However, it also does not look as washed out as some other projectors, that have good shadow detail, but mediocre black level performance.

In general, space type scenes do look good on the HD806. Remember, though, these are taken with the dynamic iris on. With it not engaged, black levels are not quite as good, and the space scenes tend to look a bit flat!

On the left, is the HD806, the middle, the Epson Home Cinema 1080 UB, and on the right, the Panasonic PT-AE3000. The Sanyo does the best job on shadow detail, followed by the Panasonic, and then the Epson, which has always been just a little weak on shadow details.