Toshiba TLP-X2000

The LCD-based Toshiba TLP-X2000 looks like a serious piece of kit: as if a ten-button interface panel weren't enough, it also comes with a versatile remote control offering no fewer than 29 buttons for complete control of the unit (although your positioning options are limited by the single infrared sensor at the front of the projector). There's even a built-in laser pointer.

When we turned on the TLP-X2000, however, we were less impressed. The image was pleasingly bright, but suffered from visible stripiness, likely caused by internal reflections. Lines and edges were muddy without sharpness enhancement: turning it on made the picture clearer, but harsher. No matter how we adjusted the picture settings, we couldn't achieve the warmth and clarity that several other projectors offered out of the box. The cause may have been an imprecise lock on the analogue signal, as we saw acute strobing and flickering in our grid tests.

We were particularly frustrated to find that we couldn't get both the top and bottom of the image in focus at the same time, despite our projection range of 2m falling well within the X2000's quoted capabilities. The automatic keystone correction proved worthless, as it overcompensated for the angle at which we'd set the projector. Once we'd corrected it manually, the result was a stripy picture.

These faults spoilt what could have been a respectable performance: colours were rich and deep without appearing oversaturated, and very light and dark shades were rendered with subtlety. Other qualities, such as the detachable control panel and the free loan unit offered as part of the warranty, are obviously tailored to appeal to business buyers. But you don't have to look far to find all of this and more without the mediocre optics - and for less money.

Author: Darien Graham-Smith