Optoma HD8600 DLP Projector with Interchangeable Lens Options (Playback 26)

Bringing Interchangeable Lens Capability to an Affordably Low Price Point

There are vertical and horizontal lens shift adjustments (manual) to aid in placement versatility, as well as compatibility with an external anamorphic lens for 2.35:1 widescreen projection, and the set features ISF certification, which provides for Day and Night picture memories, along with a full set of calibration controls.

Connectivity

The HD8600 provides one each of composite, S-video and HD-compatible component video inputs, in addition to three HDMI inputs. There’s a PC RGB input that, with a suitable adapter, can serve as a second component video input, which might be of interest to owners of older CRT front projectors that were previously connected via component video cables. Two 12V triggers allow for screen masking and external anamorphic lens control, and there’s a USB port for service access.

User Interface

On Screen Display

Virtually identical to the HD8200’s OSD, the graphics feature reasonably legible text, although when viewed during installation at the back of the room with the long throw lens option chosen there might be some squinting involved. The menu system features a wide range of adjustments, and there are white field and grid patterns to help with getting the projector optically aligned with the screen.

Remote Control

Separate power on and off buttons are helpful for programming system startup and shutdown sequences with an external system controller (and the projector features a RS-232C serial port for a hardwired connection). There are discrete source buttons as well as individual buttons for key picture controls and for the various picture size modes. The remote is backlit with blue lighting, but it fades away after just a few seconds (there’s no dedicated backlight key either).

A second convenience remote is intended to be attached to the projector’s rear panel, which can be helpful for an installation or service technician should the main remote be mislaid—that’s often the case in custom installed systems with a single system controller that contains just a few commands for basic projector operation.

RECOMMENDED SETTINGS

• Color: 0
  
• Tint: 0
  
• Sharpness: 0
  
• Picture Mode: Reference
  
• Color Temperature: D65
  
• Lens Iris: 5
  
• Lamp Mode: Economy
  
• Dynamic Black: Off
  
• Gamma: Standard (2.26 result)
  
• Black Level: Auto
  
• Color Gamut: HDTV
  
• Pure Engine: Off
  
• RGB Channel: Normal
  
• Overscan: 0
  
• Edge Mask: 0
  
• 1:1 pixel-for-pixel mode: Native

PERFORMANCE

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