PLUS V-1080

It's good to know that there are some compelling battles occurring in today's technology world. One such contest is between DLP and LCD projection technology. While LCD-based projectors claim to be relatively quieter and cheaper by design, they tend to suffer in the size stakes due to their three-panel light engines - one LCD panel per RGB colour. Manufacturers of DLP-based projectors can clearly challenge in this arena thanks to small, single-chip DMDs (Digital Micromirror Devices). The most astonishing example of this in practice is the PLUS V-1080, the smallest and lightest projector we've seen.

At first glance, the diminutive proportions and sleek styling posed concerns over the V-1080 performing as a serious business tool. Our fears were soon abated as, after a 30-minute warm-up period, the projector stormed through the DisplayMate Multimedia tests.

However, with such a small chassis, overall brightness had to suffer, but even the rated 800 ANSI lumens is adequate for standard presentations; more demanding movie-watching is likely to occur in a darkened room anyway. Brightness across the displayed image was excellent with no discernable drop in levels at the outer edges or extreme corners. Reproduction of the primary colours was equally impressive, with fine point lettering on coloured backgrounds clearly defined.

Geometry was nearly flawless, with only a very slight squash to our circular test pattern in the vertical, although you'd be hard-pressed to notice it. Sharpness turned out to be the weakest area for the V-1080, but, again, the minor flaws at the edge of the display are hardly noticeable to the untrained eye. Unfortunately, though, the sharpness appeared to deteriorate slightly over time, and after a few hours there were some concerns over focus and blooming. Connecting via digital as opposed to analog changed none of the visual test measurements, which is understandable as any flaws can only be attributed to the lens.

As a final visual test, a Pioneer DV-717 set-top DVD player was connected to the video-in connection. There are three projection options - wide (16:9 with no black bars), zoom (4:3) and auto - which makes the decision for you. All three produced stunning results, although further manipulation of the image is possible, if required, through a fully featured menu. Everything you could possibly ask for is here, including four colour temperatures, three gamma settings, digital keystone correction in the vertical and horizontal, phase and timing for fine picture adjustments, as well as being able to place the video source as a picture-in-picture window in the PC source. Some shortcuts to the menu system are also available via the remote control.

Even the case is well designed, with two adjustable front-corner feet and a rear central foot aiding image positioning. The black shiny finish also seems to capably dissipate the generous amounts of heat generated by the DLP technology. There are two exhaust fans, plus a variety of air vents that quietly steer additional heat away from the body.

The PLUS V-1080 is an astounding piece of kit with all the required features in a very small package. A projector like this was never going to be cheap, though, and £4,430 won't please any company accountant. That said, on the high street it's likely to go for £2,750.

Author: Ian Robson