Optoma HD81 (DLP)

Optoma HD81 (DLP)
Advantages:
Very bright in video optimized mode, excellent for very large screen theaters.
Maintains excellent black level and contrast despite high lumen output.
Very sharp image
Subtle pixelation, but not visible at normal viewing distances.
Outstanding connectivity, best in the group, due to separate video processor
No air filter to clean or replace, significantly reduces maintenance.
Excellent standard three year warranty—longest in the group.
Street prices have dropped, and it is a superb value for the money.

Issues:The only serious limitations on the HD81 are the short 1.2x manual zoom lens and no lens shift. But the short, bright lens is part of the trade off to get the very bright lumen output. Nevertheless, the lens configuration virtually mandates a ceiling mount installation. The projector must be located with precision relative to the screen in order to avoid tilt and keystone correction.
Fan noise in full lamp mode is higher than average, and heat output is higher as well due to a 300W lamp. Both of these factors argue for installation in a larger room with a larger than normal screen, say up to 150" diagonal. However, if operating in low lamp mode, fan noise and heat are non-issues

Summary:With the recent street price reductions, the Optoma HD81 is now a highly competitive option in the group, much more so than it was when first released. Accordingly, we have just re-rated it, giving it the full 5 stars for Value. Picture quality in general is first rate, with excellent sharpness and color dynamics. If you are planning to ceiling mount your projector, give this one strong consideration. If you want a rear shelf mount, look elsewhere.