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Sony Projector Reviews

Sony VPL-HS20 Home Theater Projector

Model: Sony VPL HS20
Review Date: 05-21-2004
By: Justin Crosby

Product Overview

Three WXGA LCD panels through a single lens form the basis of the HS20 unit, which produces a native widescreen image with 1386 x 788 resolution. An impressive contrast ratio of 1300:1 is achieved by using Sony's "Cinema Black Pro" technology, coupled with a Micro Lens Array (MLA) and Wide View (WV) Film. The MLA increases the maximum brightness while the WV Film shifts brightness for deeper blacks. "Cinema Black Pro" utilizes an iris shutter mechanism to allow the user to optimize either brightness or contrast. A notable improvement over the last model, the HS10, the HS20 includes two additional bits of color in the panel drive. This increases color possibilities by a factor of four. Equally as impressive is the unit's brightness. At 1400 ANSI lumens, the HS20 will provide a great viewing experience regardless of location. However, to truly appreciate the vibrant color reproduction, a low light room or home theatre is advisable. The projection lamp should be expected to last for approximately 3000 hours of average use before replacement. Throwing distances from 5.9 to 38.4 feet produce an image of 40 to 300 inches, respectively. The following input signals are appropriate for this model: 480/60i, 575/50i, 480/60p, 575/50p, 720/60p, 720/50p, 1080/60i, 1080/50i, SVGA, XGA, NTSC, PAL, SECAM, PAL-M, and PAL-N.

Projector Ratings

Picture Quality ~ 97

The vibrancy of color delivered by the HS20 is truly admirable when compared to projectors of similar brightness. Yet, In terms of pure brightness, the projector leaves something to be desired. When compared to a projector with a much lower ANSI Lumen rating (like the Panasonic PT-1500U), the HS20 actually looks dimmer. This projector should not be purchased based on its high ANSI lumen rating because realizing the phenomenal contrast requires the lamp to be set to low with the iris closed, in cinema mode. If cinema mode is not appropriate for the situation, five other picture modes are offered that customize different levels of brightness, contrast, and color temperature. The reproduction of black in cinema mode was quite impressive and, when tested with a gray scale image, there was a smooth transition between shades. The "screen-door effect" is a phenomenon that describes a noticeable frame surrounding each pixel of the projected image, similar to the effect of looking through a screen-door. At reasonable projection distances for home theatre, there is no perceptible screen-door effect, even upon close observation of the screen. When it comes to the purchase of a home theatre projector, most consumers want high contrast, cool color temperature, and ample brightness. The Sony VPL-HS20 is able to deliver in all these respects, which makes it ideal for home theatre applications.

Additional Considerations ~ 95

Fan noise of only 28 dB makes the HS20 perfect for home applications where silent operation is necessary. Air intake is on the bottom of the unit and exhaust is out of the front panel, which can pose some mounting concerns depending on application. A built-in speaker is an intriguing feature on a projector of this caliber; however, Memory Stick Media" is the only method of audio input rendering them relatively useless. If Memory Stick Media was a viable input for you, the whole thing might prove to be rather useful. An impromptu slideshow would be a breeze for the HS20 if Memory Stick Media were used for personal digital photography. The on-screen menus are large and very easy to understand, so setup is not a chore. The lighted remote is simple to use as well, and it offers an easy change between six different picture modes depending on the program material. Dynamic, standard, cinema, and three user-defined modes offer great customizability. Keystone controls for the Side Shot 2 digital keystoning are also conveniently located on the remote. Powered zoom and focus mechanisms shorten initial and subsequent setup times. The projector has plenty of inputs to connect to your existing multimedia equipment, including DVI-D, HDMI, component video, composite video, S-video, and a PJ-Multi port, a 32 pin multi connector that is useful for additional devices.

Value ~ 97

If you are in the market for a home cinema projector in the $3000 range, the HS20 is a great choice. However, the value of this unit comes in its application as a home theatre projector. A consumer who needs an extremely bright image should look elsewhere. The color fidelity and contrast of this unit truly make it valuable when delivered in low light. HD projectors in this price range simply cannot match the stunning resolution delivered by the Sony HS20. The lamp lasts for about 3000 hours with normal usage can be replaced for about $280. All of which adds to the tremendous value of this projection unit.

Overall Rating ~ 96.6

Overall Rating  =	(Pic. Quality x 3) + Add. Consid. + Value
	5

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