The InFocus ScreenPlay 4800 is a reincarnation of the very popular InFocus' X1 DLP Projector. The 4800 has a remote but, otherwise, is identical to the X1. Recently InFocus has released an X2 model which has 1500 lumens (brighter bulb, up from 1000/1100 lumens). Since Amazon likes to know about best pricing you can obtain an X2 for about $1000 and the X1 is available for $900 at various vendor's on the internet. I purchased my ScreenPLay 4800 at Costco for $1200 and it included a 6' by 3.8' self contained (roll down or up from floor) screen which is at least a $200 value. This projector (4800) is an outstanding value and performs with stunning clarity and overall excellence. The accompanying documentation is thorough and setup is very easy.
I have used the projector for vieweing DVD's, watching standard cable broadcast sports and TV programming and for projecting my computer (notebook) display all with great ease and great satisfaction. DVD movies viewed using the projector's component inputs produces crystal clear images that are smooth and virtually amazing.
The lamp life is rated at generous 4000 hours and a replacement lamp is priced at $300.
Any flat white wall will do nicely if you do not have a viewing screen. Even though I have a projection screen I purchased a 48'' by 36'' clear white (reflective) "marker board" ( $9.00 ) and mounted it on the wall in my home studio and the result is as good as any $3000+ plasma screen TV.
The DLP technology rocks! Infocus is now (I believe) in their 13th generation of projectors and they have it down pat. Some people may (very few by percentage) notice a slight (and infrequent) "rainbow effect" that is inherent in all DLP technology projectors. The "rainbow effect" is fleeting and infrequent sparkles in some small area of projected videos and not something that is continuous nor large (size of a dime). The effect is minimal and fleeting (one frame) and is, in my opinion, as close as you can get to "of no consequence". Someone who can see these "rainbow effects" may notice two or three in an entire feature film. So, if you get a DLP technology projector you may not want to invite any Virgo's to your screening parties. :-)
Ideally, to use any projector (regardless of lumen ratings) you need to have control of your ambient lighting. The best viewing is in a room where the lighting can imitate that of a movie theatre. You can imagine how a projected image would be in a regular movie theatre with daylight streaming in through picture windows. The same situation will exist in your home. The darker the room the better the visual quality. Night time viewing presents no strategic lighting issues.
To get a projected image (16:9) that is 7 feet (diagonal) across you will need about 14 feet distance from your projector to your wall or movie screen. Eight feet distance will give you a five foot diagonal image. So space ("The Final Frontier") is a consideration. The projected image also allows for a viewing angle of about 120 degrees unlike plasma screen TV's.
Bottom line: The InFocus ScreenPlay 4800 DLP projector is an expression of technological excellence. Stellar movies, jaw dropping video, ease of use, legendary bulb life, greatly enhanced TV viewing, superior mobility, 2 years parts and labor warranty (exclusive of bulb) at a bargain price compared to plasma screen TV, LCD TV and some rear projection TV's.
With the 4800 I have a "better than" plasma screen TV, with a minimal footprint, with a 55 inch diagonal picture (8 feet from projector to "message board" viewing screen) and it actually feels like you are on the bridge of The Starship Enterprise (Spike TV) and DVD's are magnificent and televised sports give you the best seat in the arena. If you are looking for a DLP Projector without having to get an advanced degree in Rocket Science then the 4800 fills the bill.
O.K. Let's go to press!
