Sim2 HT380 Projector

[bananarob]

Having spent about a vast number of hours researching and reading reviews on projectors I have pretty much concluded that I will go for the Sim2 HT380. I had originally allocated 4k but have upgraded up to 6k. I have been weighing up the JVC 950 and the Sim and although but are truely excellent projectors, the fact that its going to be in a very visable wall mounted position, the size of the Sim2 really appeals (and my wife will hit me less post install). Anyone on here spent any time with this box that can give feedback?

[OldSkoolRS]

From what I understand it isn't so good in darker scenes compared to the JVCs plus it is an older model now, so maybe due for replacement (CES 2010 os taking place now, so possibly some new models may be announced). In any case you really need to see one working as until you do, you won't know if you are bothered by DLP's 'rainbow effect'. Unfortunately I am so can't consider a DLP, hence my initial venture into LCD then DILA projectors.

It's a bit out of date, but this is a thread comparing the HT380 to the older model JVC the HD750, but still relevent as the HD950 isn't massively different, just subtle improvements and easier to calibrate.

http://www.avforums.com/forums/projectors/865765-p...

I'd recommend a good read up around this section of AVF

http://www.avforums.com/forums/projectors/

And also the American AVSForum:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=...

Edited by OldSkoolRS on Wednesday 6th January 16:10

[bananarob]

Have seen the Sim2 in action and thought it superb. I didnt experience any rainbow effect despite trying 4 different movies. Havent seen it against the JVC though...

[OldSkoolRS]

That sounds like your next stop then eh? Though it would really help to see them both side by side as the room can make a bigger difference than the model of projector and it's hard using your memory to compare. I wish I could have got on with DLP as I like the image I saw at the time, which was much better than the LCD I was comparing it with...I delayed buying a projector for another two years after that demo as the LCDs at the time didn't compare IMHO (Panasonic AE700 I think compared to an Infocus IN76).

[WZC1]

The Sim is an excellent projector as is the JVC. Viewing a calibrated unit is the best way to see what they can really do, the 950 in particular benefits from an accurate set up. You will not go wrong with either, my choice is still the VW85 at this price.
Nick

[bananarob]

Yeah, found a place that has both on demo...unfortunately its 3hrs drive away (in normal driving conditions!). Appreciate your input. Thanks

[OldSkoolRS]

It's got to be worth the effort though. I was so dissapointed with my previous projector and I didn't even drive 10 miles to demo one before I bought it, so it served me right really.

I'd forgotten about the VWL85 as it got a very good review too and it's pretty much splitting hairs as to whether the HD950 or VWL85 was better in the review I read. I'll post a link once I'd found it if you want.

[bananarob]

Worth a read so defo!

[OldSkoolRS]

Typical...I can't find it now I'm looking. However, in the meantime have a read of these two reviews:

http://www.avforums.com/reviews/Sony-Bravia-VPL-VW...

http://www.avforums.com/reviews/JVC-DLA-HD950-DILA...

Both done by the same guy; Phil Hinton. He calibrates the projectors before reviewing them, so he's comparing like for like. He seems fair in his reviews and doesn't seem biased (no advertising budget to worry about ). I met him at the JVC HD350/750 UK launch in September 2008 and he seemed a really knowledgable chap and pleasant to boot...in other words I believe what he says.

Just incase the budget gets tight the HD550 review for comparison (good explaination of what you are paying for with the dearer models too).

http://www.avforums.com/reviews/JVC-DLA-HD550-D-IL...

Edited by OldSkoolRS on Wednesday 6th January 20:34

[bananarob]

Looks like out of those 2, the JVC still cuts it in his opinion. Seeing that and the Sim2 side back to back is the only way forward. Thanks again for your research!

[Saintjsmythe]

I really think you are over looking the Epsom TW-5800. Amazing projector and hits way above its prive tag, very close to the Sim and JVC picture. Some say its better.
Really worth seeking out and demo'ing.

[bananarob]

Have a local shop working on demoing the Epson, JVC and Sim2 so it wont be overlooked!!

[OldSkoolRS]

Can't say fairer than that. I'll be interested in what you settle on, don't foget to post back once you're too busy enjoying films on your new setup.

I put 'Gone with the Wind' on for my OH last night (on BluRay) and although it wasn't my cup of tea it did look remarkably good for a 70 year old film. SHame was it only filled half of my screen as it is presented in 4:3 (1.33:1 ratio) and my screen is 2.35:1 and I haven't got round to making up side masking yet.

[Saintjsmythe]

bananarob said:

Have a local shop working on demoing the Epson, JVC and Sim2 so it wont be overlooked!!

Awesome. Where is your local shop? I may pop along if its close by!

[bananarob]

Cheltenham...