Infocus ScreenPlay 4805 and 5700

[sploo]

Hi all,

I'm after the experiences of anyone that's used the Infocus SP4805 and SP5700 projectors.

I have the opportunity to get hold of either of these units, both refurbished (with new bulbs). Both are significantly cheaper than the retail prices here in the UK.

I've seen many good reviews of both, but I've noticed some concerns of the 5700's lower contrast ratio (1400:1 vs 2000:1).

The planned use is movies, for a 90" diagonal image, with a throw distance of 11 to 15ft. The room is a normal living room with curtains (i.e. some ambient light), and the viewing distance would be 9 to 10ft.

These facts push me towards the 5700 (higher res, longer throw distance, brighter etc.). But is it really worth the extra cash, especially given the lower contrast ratio?

Thanks in advance for any info...

 

[sokrman14]

Yes, go with the 5700. That isnt a real significant difference (2000 vs 1400). I would say go with the 5700 because of the brightness, and resolution.

 

[Rob Babcock]

Whether or not the contrast ratio and overall brightness are really big issues depends upon the rig you'll use them in. If can acheive good light control (ie a very dark room) then either is more than sufficiently bright. If you have to watch with a lot of ambient light then you'll need a bit more "power".

Bear in mind though that you can never acheive good blacks with a FPTV if there's a lot of ambient light.

 

[sploo]

sokrman, Rob,

Thanks for the info.

Because the room has windows at either end (i.e. not a basement) I guess I'm unlikely to ever make it really dark (I don't know what the PJ aficionados would rate as properly dark).

Also, because the seating position is relatively close, I figured the higher res model would be better.

I understand the 5700 is an older design than the 4805, but was obviously a more 'premium' product. I suppose as it was retailing for more than twice the price (at least here in the UK) it must be a better unit, and I've seen it get 5 star reviews when both models were current.

Anyone else got any other thoughts?

 

[sploo]

Hi all,

Well, I've now managed to try both projectors, in the same room, though admittedly not on the same day.

I certainly feel that the 5700 is by far the better unit. Perhaps because it's brighter I didn't notice any difference in the black levels/contrast between it and the 4850.

As I'm in the UK, having a unit that matches PAL resolution (i.e. pretty much my entire DVD collection) is a bonus.

Also, I found it difficult to get a decent match with my elderly HTPC and the 4805 resolution. With the 5700 I can get a 1:1 pixel mapping, meaning that the image is razor sharp.

The end result is that my living room is now home to a 5700 .