Sound Advice: New projector provides cinema-quality picture
-R.L., Raleigh, North Carolina
A.The projector is the new Nebula X1 Cinema Grade Projection System. I was able to try it myself recently after seeing a very impressive press demonstration at the CES expo in January, before it was announced to the public.
The Nebula X1 is extremely bright at 3,500 ANSI Lumens and can project from an 80-inch to a gigantic 300-inch image. The spectacular picture quality is indeed cinema-grade, and the brightness means it works well in moderate ambient light. Another remarkable thing about the Nebula X1 is that anyone can easily get the most out of the projector. Many high-performance audio, video and photography products require a certain level of expertise to access all the performance and capabilities. With the Nebula X1 you can just put the projector on the ground or on a table, point it at the screen and the projector will do the rest. The X1 uses AI to find the screen, fill it with a test pattern, focus and correct for keystone effect to present a perfect image automatically. From there the Google TV operating system makes the X1 as easy to use as any flat-panel smart television.
The X1 produces strong, satisfying sound on its own, but it can be used with dedicated wireless surround speakers that pair with the projector and automatically set up a 4.1.2-channel surround sound field. An optical/auxiliary port and HDMI eARC connection are provided for use with other external powered speakers and sound systems.
The Nebula X1 definitely lives up to the hype and the promise. It currently sells for the $2,999, and that is actually very affordable when many high-end 4K home theater projectors can sell for $30,000 or more. Nebula currently is offering a free 100-inch screen or gimbal stand with purchase. There is also a $3,998 bundle that includes the $699 wireless speakers, two microphones for karaoke and presentations, and a beautifully made case with dedicated compartments for the projector and accessories.
Whether the Nebula X1 is worth the difference compared to some of the very good 4K smart projectors selling around $1,000 will depend on the individual buyer. For those who want the absolute best and can afford it, the X1 significantly raises the bar in terms of image quality and what a smart projector system can do. seenebula.com
Q. In a recent column someone mentioned how their soundbar interfered with the bottom of their LG TV for viewing. I found putting a soundbar in front of our LG TV was in our line of sight. I found a fix by purchasing a TV riser from Syracuse TV Risers. They are excellent solid wood TV stands, and you can order custom made!
-J.R., East Hampstead, New Hampshire
A. After receiving your email I checked out syracusetvrisers.com and this looks to be a great option for those looking for more TV clearance or component space. Thanks for the tip!
Super-handy household gadget: Next week I will feature one of the most surprisingly useful and fun household gadgets I have ever tested. It has a multitude of uses around the home, car and outdoors, sports a really cool name and sells for about $30! Don't miss it!
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