Optoma EP1690 Projector: Is this the ultimate solution for your home theater or just another digital distraction?

stig1103

New member

Catalogs Hide

  1. 1 Spec
In a world where home entertainment often hinges on flashy OLED screens and immersive sound systems, the Optoma EP1690 DLP Digital Theater Projector emerges as an unexpected contender. With its 16:9 WXGA display and impressive brightness, it begs the question: can a projector truly rival traditional televisions in our increasingly screen-focused lives?

This device boasts a solid 2500 lumens and a contrast ratio that challenges the idea that projectors are merely for outdoor movie nights or the occasional gaming session. Its DarkChip2 DLP technology promises longevity and consistent quality, but does that mean we should reconsider how we approach home viewing?

We'll dive into its extensive connectivity options and unique cooling system, which claims to maintain performance while minimizing noise. But can this projector hold its own in a landscape dominated by sleek TVs? Join me as we explore whether the Optoma EP1690 is a game-changer or just another gadget in an overcrowded market.

Spec​

Parameter
Optoma EP1690 Projector​
Picture​
OptomaEP1690Projector.jpg
Reference Price​
Highlight​
16:9 WXGA (1280 x 768) widescreen display for work and play versatility
DarkChip2 DLP technology ensures that images don't fade or degrade over time
Bright and crisp picture quality with 2500 lumens and 2500:1 contrast ratio
Extensive connectivity options, including DVI with HDCP and four audio and video inputs
Innovative wind tunnel cooling system delivers whisper quiet operation and prevents light leakage
Screen Size​
N/A - 300 Inches​
Contrast Ratio​
2500:1​
Native Resolution​
1280 x 768​
Display Type​
DLP​
LightSource Life​
2000 Hours​
Controller Type​
Remote Control​
Control Method​
Remote​
Lamp Wattage​
220 Watts​
Wattage​
295 watts​
Item Weight​
7 Pounds​
I'm considering the Optoma EP1690 DLP Digital Theater Projector and would love to hear your thoughts on it. I'm particularly interested in picture and sound quality since I plan to use it for both work presentations and movie nights. How does the 2500 lumens brightness hold up in different lighting conditions? Is the contrast ratio of 2500:1 noticeable during darker scenes?

Also, I'm curious about the sound quality—does it have built-in speakers that are decent enough, or would I need to invest in external audio? I've read about the extensive connectivity options, which is great, but are there any potential downsides to be aware of? Lastly, how effective is the cooling system in practice? Any experiences with noise levels would be super helpful. Thanks!
 

GreatKangaroo

New member
I've had this projector since July 2007, and honestly, it’s been a great buy. But you won’t believe what happened! Just one month after the two-year warranty ran out, in August 2009, it started malfunctioning. The lamp is only at 930 hours, but suddenly, it’s like the colors went on strike. The reds are now this weird dark blue, the whole image looks like a blue-tinted black-and-white movie, and even the blue screen is coming up all grayish-white.

I did a quick search online and found out I’m not the only one dealing with this issue. It’s kind of frustrating! My last projector was an InFocus X1, and it went bonkers too after the lamp died at 3000 hours. Just my luck, right?
 
Top