Samsung SP-A600 – Review Summary1

Posted on October 17, 2013 By Art Feierman

All considered, the Samsung is likely a good value, with only real question relating to the performance of those new low cost models, which could pose a serious threat to the Samsung’s price/performance. That said, the Samsung SP-A600 is well balanced, very watchable, and brighter than most, low cost 1080p home theater projector!

It’s one of those projectors that a first-time buyer can really enjoy, and a good first step 1080p projector for those who catch the “bug” and become enthusiasts.

Samsung SP-A600 Projector: Pros, Cons, and Typical Capabilities

Samsung SP-A600 Projector: Pros

Good out of the Box picture quality
Very good color accuracy post calibration in best mode (Movie 1)
Well balanced, good overall picture quality (although gamma is off a bit)
A very bright entry-level projector in its “best” mode, just above average brightness in its brightest mode
Two HDMI 1.3 inputs, full support for 24 fps, Deep Color, CEC etc.
Well laid out menu system
Longer than average lamp life for lower cost of operation
No filters to change, minimizing maintenance
Rainbow effect minimized, and not an issue for most who are moderately sensitive

Samsung SP-A600 Projector: Cons

The remote control’s lack of a backlight
Dark shadow detail, while good, isn’t up to a few other projectors priced similarly
Limited placement flexibility, and no lens shift
Black level performance is definitely entry level
Slight light leak out one side (minor)
Gamma is off: Film gamma too high, Video too low
No support for an anamorphic lens

Samsung SP-A600 Projector: Typical Capabilities

Audible noise – just about average, and a little quieter than most DLP models
Documentation? That’s a maybe, as this pre-production projector didn’t come with one
Warranty (2 years)