The Epson EMP-TWD10 is the first HD multi-function projector. Entirely HD? Not exactly.  Multi-functions combine speakers + projector + video player.  Here the projection system is indeed HD Ready and there are 720p or 1280x720 LCD pixel panels; however there is only a "simple" DVD player.

Ergonomics have improved compared to its predecessors (including the EMP-TWD3) especially in terms of connectivity as an HDMI has been added.  We obtained a very large image from our 3 meter mark which was 3.13 meters (diagonally) or 77cm more than the average.  Furthermore, there is a lens shift that is controlled from underneath the projector.   The remote is very similar to previous versions and is still not backlit.  Buttons are glow-in-the-dark meaning their brightness in a dark room is proportional to the amount of time they were exposed to light.   Finishing on a sour note in ergonomics was the noise level.  In the most silent mode, black Cinema, noise was measured at 30 dB and 32 Cinema (non economy).

An SD player, an HD video projector

With two resolutions, 576p for input via the DVD and 720p in output, this projector should theoretically be equipped with a good rescaling system.  With a DVD as a source, the result is generally convincing with very well controlled noise and flattering colors.  However, looking closer and in comparison with a dedicated 720p model (this was convenient as we had the Optima HD720X on hand), we could see that it wasn’t really up to the challenge.  Black was generally washed out and colors were vivid but had a red dominance.  Also, images and the quality of edges on characters were not as refined.

To compare the quality of video signal processing and upscaling, we hooked up a high end Blu-Ray player and watched the same DVD and then an HD version of Casino Royal.  In actual use, the best result was produced by the integrated player.  We don’t think this because it was of better quality than the Blu-ray player but rather video processing is not as good with the HDMI connection.  Video noise is much more present and the sharpness on curves is largely inferior.  We can even see parasite pixels in black backgrounds.  For the HD movie, the result is good although there is still a lack of sharpness compared to HD Ready models that are solely devoted to projection.

Our criticism on the EMP-TWD10 may seem a bit severe but this should be put into perspective.  Of course, it doesn’t stand up to the comparison with a dedicated 720p projector; however the TWD10 does give the user unparalleled flexibility.  All you have to do is plug it in, put in a DVD and enjoy the large format projection.