The front projector space just got brighter when Dell shipped its 2400 and 1200MP models earlier this month. The XGA version of this DLP duo boasts 3000 lumens and will ship for $1099, the SVGA model checks in at 2000 lumens and sells for $699. That’s 40% less than comparable models according to Gerry Smith, VP of the Dell product group who said "…these are two of the brightest most aggressively priced projectors available today." Smith also noted the 2400MP (XGA model) "…offers the best lumens per dollar in the industry."

Steve Sechrist
Senior Analyst and Editor
of Projection Monthly &
Microdisplay Report

We did a quick look-up on Projectorcentral.com and sure enough, when looking at comparable projectors (6.5 pound range, XGA with 2000 to 3500 lumen brightness) the new Dell 2400 blows away the competition. Its lumen/$ rating comes in at 2.73 with the closest competitor the BenQ PB6240 that hits a factor of 1.88 ($1439 for 2700lu)

One look at the chart tells the story. While the BenQ unit was a good buy from a respectable brand at $1439, the Dell unit is a stunner and shifts the paradigm for this hot projector category with a direct-to-consumer model that the dealers will be hard pressed to match.

$1099 for XGA-anything is a good buy, but throw in a 3000 lumen light engine from a 260W P-VIP lamp, using the latest TI Dark Chip (0.7-inch) in a 5.5 pound package with all the options, and we’re talking breakthrough. Dell even throws in a 1-year warranty on the 2K hour rated lamp-extending the normal warranty period given by most manufacturers by a full nine months.

Now the downside, OK 3 times the warranty on the lamp is great, but they only cover the box for 1 year, while most manufacturers give a 3-year warranty. This is somewhat of a trade-off perhaps designed to sell lucrative warranty option plans. The real kicker is the lack of a digital connector. Even though the system supports 720p resolution (native XGA in 4:3 aspect) there is no digital (DVI or HDMI) connectivity for a true HD home theater experience -unfortunately, this is a major "ouch" that blows-off the cross-over category space, and eliminates the unit from many projector enthusiasts wish list.

Our take: Past the short warranty and lack of digital connector, the Dell 2400MP is an excellent buy particularly for the business projection crowd looking for a bright box to display images in full lighting situations. The host of options reads like a top-of-the-line projector offering with a top name like Dell to back it up.

AV dealers will be hard pressed to match this "direct-sell" offering and this is perhaps one more reason why professionals are ceding this space, as they change focus to high-end installations. –SS