Vivitek holds true to its word, delivers sub-$1000 1080p projector

Those craving a 1080p projector but feeling a little strapped for cash right now (and who isn't) will be glad to hear that Vivitek has come through on both its pricing and timing promises for its H1080FD model. If you're looking for a beamer on the cheap and the 720p LCD Epson PowerLite 700 didn't do it for you, the quick rundown on Vivitek's offering goes like this -- DLP engine, 1080 lines of resolution, 1800 lumens bright, $999, available this month. As always, the 5,000:1 contrast ratio needs some salt, but the 29dB rating and 3,000-hour lamp life aren't too shabby; RS-232 control is just gravy. If the performance comes close to the promise, don't be surprised to see some of these projectors added alongside direct-view sets for dedicated night-time viewing in steady-income homes.

[(Unverified) Posted Aug 4th 2009 1:20PM]

I will have to keep my eye on this projector. My wife doesn't see why we need a TV and a projector, but at this price, It may be easier to sell to her.

[(Unverified) Posted Aug 4th 2009 1:32PM]

1080P is still 1080P of poop if it is not good quality ... Need some reviews .. Still hoping for a Sony SXRD projector to come down for when I'm ready to build my house and my dedicated home theater

[(Unverified) Posted Aug 4th 2009 1:36PM]

That's all good, but do any reputable resellers carry Vivitek? Or just mail-order.

[zeeke Posted Aug 4th 2009 1:54PM]

I wonder how much the 1080p projectors will go down in price.. Just seems like the market for home projectors should be pretty limited and especially when 50-60 inch plasmas are getting affordable for the average customer I just don't see projectors getting much cheaper.

But then again, the average customer want a 100 inch LCD up on that wall in his 10x12 ft living room. Preferably cranked up to the point where the whole family gets tanned while eating in front of the TV..

[(Unverified) Posted Aug 5th 2009 7:26AM]

Yeah but once you have a 60" you want more : ) .. 60" is not so big anymore after a few years of soaking it in

[glennS Posted Aug 4th 2009 2:57PM]

"don't be surprised to see some of these projectors added alongside direct-view sets for dedicated night-time viewing in steady-income homes."

Get out of my mind!

[(Unverified) Posted Aug 4th 2009 5:26PM]

Let's see some real world comparisons to the $999 Optoma HD20. Then I'll make a decision.

[(Unverified) Posted Aug 5th 2009 2:21PM]

I'll wait 6 months for decent reviews to come in, along with horror stories, if there are to be any, and then I'll make my final decision, but that certainly looks like it might be in my future.

[(Unverified) Posted Aug 5th 2009 6:15PM]

Sure it's only $999 but the bulbs will probably be $250 each.