The Optima DV11 (Optoma DV11 actually) is called the “movie time” projector it was designed for consumers who don’t have a dedicated home theater and want to set up the projector for a movie night or sporting event. Hence, the inbuilt DVD player to simplify set up by eliminating the need for connecting a separate DVD player. With 1600 ANSI lumens of brightness, Optoma have recognized that brightness levels are most likely to be higher for a room which is not a purpose built home theater. The contrast ratio is a suitably high 2200:1.

For showing digital images to friends and family the DVD player will load a Kodak Picture CD and display JPEG files. It will even play audio CDs, MP3 and WMA files however, the usefulness of this is not readily apparent. Optoma have included somewhat more powerful than usual built in speakers (5W) however, most audiences, would appreciate larger external speakers (home stereo system) which can be connected using the included digital audio S/PDIF output.

The Optoma DV11’s projection engine is based on DLP by Texas Instruments. The DV11 has a basic 4 segment color wheel so purchasers should view the projector working before purchase to check if they notice any rainbow distortions – particularly during action videos.

As well as the built in DVD player, Optima have provided other features for set up flexibility such as a manual zoom lens (1.1:1) and keystone correction (± 15º vertical) however, they are a not high end specification figures. The absence of a HDMI support should be appreciated before purchase in case it is required for connecting other AV equipment. The DV11 has a noise level of 32dB at maximum brightness which is higher than many home theater projectors on the market. Probably due to the expectation of higher ambient light viewing settings, Optoma have included a remote control with no backlighting.

The Optoma DV11’s warranty is a fairly standard 2 Years on the projector, 1 Year on the DVD drive and 90 days on the projection lamp.

Another projector with built in DVD player is the Toshiba TDP-ET20U Multimedia DVD Projector which has horizontal and vertical keystone correction, HDMI support but, a lower brightness of 1100 ANSI lumen.

Resources

Projection Screen Selection

8 Tips to Extend Projector Lamp Life

Replacement Projector Lamps and Bulbs

User Reviews and Price Comparisons

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Replacement Lamp for DV11

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