The Mitsubishi HC8000D Projector

The Mitsubishi HC8000D home theater projector is a great addition for any dedicated family home theater.  It comes finished in a black shiny case, which blends in nicely with most home theater equipment and surroundings.  (For those more interested in putting this projector in a bright or open family room, living room, etc., the HC8000D has a less expensive, but similar version that comes in a white case.)  Because the HC8000D is a smaller projector, it fits nicely in smaller rooms.

From a performance perspective, the emphasis of the HC8000D projector is in delivering a much higher contrast or better black levels.  While it is not quite “best in class”, this projector has very good shadow detail.  It also has excellent overall color, especially with skin tones.

Because the HC8000D projector has a 1.5:1 manual zoom lens, it has a better than normal zoom range, especially considering that it is a home DLP projector.  This particular Mitsubishi projector provides as much placement flexibility as possible, compared to most other home DLP projectors.  This Mitsubishi model has creative frame interpolation for very smooth motion, and it has a full color management system for excellent callibration.   DLPs tend to be a bit noisy, when it comes to audible noise.  The HC8000D is a bit quieter than most other DLP projectors, especially when compared to other less expensive models. This projector has two different lamp modes:  full and eco-mode.  Considering the large lamp life difference between the two modes, you will probably want to run the lamp in eco-mode, as long as you have enough brightness.

The HC8000D projector is definitely 3D capable, but you will need a couple things before you watch your first 3D movie.   First of all, you will need the actual 3D movie.  In addition, you will need a 3D emitter which plugs into the input panel.   And – of course, you will also need 3D glasses – the usual active shutter type. Mitsubishi recommends either their relatively new proprietary Mitsubishi glasses, or universal glasses from a 3rd party manufacturer such as XpanD. The proprietary Mitsubishi glasses are considered moderately lightweight, at 55.2 grams (almost two ounces).  They are brighter than typical lightweight glasses and use the High Speed setting in the 3D menu.

The Mitsubishi HC8000D produces a very clean 3D image.  If you are trying to fill a large screen however, the HC8000D simply does not have enough muscle power in 3D.  In essence, this is a projector better suited for smaller to medium sized room and screens. There are a number of other pros to consider with the Mitsubishi HC8000D Projector:

—No problems have been experienced with 720p or 1080i/p content from any DirecTV 3D channel or Blu-Ray 3D.

—Dynamic iris is very smooth.

—The lamp life is excellent (rated 5000 hours) in Eco Mode.

—Low maintenance – no filters to change.

—Lamp can be replaced without dismounting the projector.

—Excellent warranty: 3 years parts and labor

When it comes to the HC8000D projector, image quality is a key feature.  If you are considering adding to your home theater set-up in 2014, now is the time to check out the HC8000D projector.  Your family will certainly enjoy this using great projector!