Dell is pitching its latest digital projector, the 2300MP, as a mid-range option for small businesses and home users, but its specifications make it comparable to top-end offerings from rival firms. The projector is one of the brightest available in its price bracket, and boasts an impressive light output of 2300 ANSI lumens. As a rule, 2000 lumens is considered suitable for even the brightest rooms. Dell has been equally generous in the contrast department. The 2300MP uses Digital Light Processing technology from Texas Instruments to give a contrast ratio of 2,100:1 which outperforms even top-end rivals. Output from the projector generally lived up to these impressive statistics - the picture quality was sharp and clear, and certainly came close to that elusive 'cinema experience'. One complaint, however, was that the picture appeared to flicker in the especially bright parts of a movie or programme. Also, the projector does tend to heat up after extended use. The 2300MP's projection distance (distance between projector and screen) is a strong selling-point in the local market. At its closest range of 1.2m, the projector will work in even the stingiest of Hong Kong apartments, while from 12m the 2300MP can project on a giant 7.5m diagonal screen that would put some small movie theatres to shame. Dell has not skimped on the connectivity, either. From PCs to DVD players to televisions, the necessary connection cables all come included with a velcro fastener to keep excess cable organised - hardly a vital feature but a nice touch. Weighing 2.13kg, the projector is also eminently portable, and ships with a smart drop-tested carrying case. Projectors are still an enjoyable but expensive investment for screening World Cup Finals, concerts or movies, and at $17,999 the 2300MP is no exception. Factor in the cost of replacement bulbs at around $2,700 and users may still prefer to splash out on a plasma screen television. But for that movie-going experience, the 2300MP fits the bill nicely. Dell 2300MP Digital Projector Specifications Price: $17,999 Pros: Bright, clear projection image, large screen size, extensive connectivity options, carry case Cons: Light flickering (may be adjustable), very hot to the touch
