This is an outstanding multi-purpose LCD projector at a surprisingly good price, aimed at presentation professionals, but just as good in a home theater. Overall, the Panasonic PT-LC76U LCD projector produces awesome image quality from such a compact package. At just 4.8 pounds, with XGA resolution and rated at 1600 ANSI lumens, this great little projector punches well above its weight.
Its pretty easy to find very demanding video sequences that would usually expose the weaknesses any LCD projector. However, the fantastic PT-LC76U takes even the toughest scene changes in its stride with no loss of quality or clarity. Video reproduction is perfect, with no detectable motion-flicker and none of the colour cast often seen in the subtle mid-tones of higher priced machines. And high contrast highlights, often burned out, are produced with effortless accuracy. The image quality of this little LCD projector cannot be understated, comparing favourably to the most recent professional gas plasma units.
The colour reproduction and contrast levels of the PT-LC76U can be likened to that of theatrical display units. Obviously, the brightness can’t match such industrial strength machines, but this LCD projector is not short of brightness either. Panasonic claims 1,600 ANSI lumens for the PT-LC76U, but on a subjective level this appears to be low. This projector appears to produce an image as bright as an average 2000 ANSI lumens machine might give. And the contrast between it and something in the 1200 ANSI lumen range is nothing short of incredible.
Taking a closer look inside the PT-LC76U, the source of this impressive brightness and contrast is clear: the optical path has been extremely well designed to minimise light loss and leakage. A full size collector lens sits opposite the 160 watt projector lamp, and the projector lamp assembly itself has a thin pre-focus lens incorporated. If only all LCD projectors had this much thought and effort put into the efficiency of the light path, we might see better picture quality and longer bulb life all round!
In order to get this increased brightness and contrast Panasonic have used a short lens with little zoom and almost no lens shift. This means a short focal length, limiting the LCD projector to being quite close to the screen. You won’t be using this projector from the back of a large conference room and getting a usable image. Lens optics like this often mean difficulties in keystone correction, but the PT-LC76U copes with this quite well.
This is a great LCD projector for presenters with lots of demanding video to share. Its also going to make an ideal home theater projector, combining outstanding image quality with great value. The Panasonic PT-LC76U LCD projector is highly recommended for anyone who demands the best video image quality available.