ADI MicroScan 6G

ADI's last outing in our 19in monitor Labs (see issue 46) saw it earn an overall score of only three points. All of that changed with the MicroScan 5GD, later renamed the 5GT. This 17in unit used a Sony Trinitron tube to produce a superb image at a very competitive price. However, we were still amazed to see that ADI had managed to produce a 21in monitor with a street price of just £549.

The 6G performed below average in the geometry and distortion tests, with an overall score of 12 points. Despite offering considerably better image quality than the MAG Innovision DJ920, it failed the anti-glare tests and the corner focus was also quite poor. Where the 6G really fell down though, was in the pincushion and horizontal curvature tests where it showed its inability to display straight lines. However, despite the extremely low price point, power regulation was pretty impressive, especially as it passed the screen regulation test with a distinction.

During the sharpness and resolution tests, the 6G managed to climb a few places on the performance graph, achieving a score equal to the Samsung SyncMaster 1000p and the Compaq P110. However, despite passing all but two tests, performance was still below par. What became obvious was the presence of excessive moirÚ interference that couldn't be rectified.

Performance in the colour and greyscale tests was again less than impressive, although it was much better than some competitors. The main problem was an inability to intensify and de-intensify the beam quickly enough, so that ghosting and streaking became apparent when dark and light colours were displayed next to each other. Although the ADI passed all the other tests in this section, it took a lot of fiddling with the OSD to make the required corrections.

Externally, the 6G is plain. Underneath the fascia a flip-down panel hides the 14-button control system. As there are so many multifunction buttons it's quite awkward to use and makes finding the advanced settings an unnecessary chore. Surprisingly, ADI has managed to squeeze separate D-SUB and BNC inputs onto the rear panel, which is quite a feat considering the low cost of the unit.

It may not be the best performing display in this month's Labs but, if you're buying on a budget, then the ADI MicroScan 6G offers great value for money for a 21in monitor