Sanyo has been quiet in the data projector space for some time, but it still remains one of the best selling brands in the world. The PLC-XU55 (£2126 ex. VAT) is the latest addition to its portable range of devices and we think it will definitely make the right impression in meeting rooms across the country. In appearance, the XU55 has an appealing look. While it has the silver box feel of a standard projector, Sanyo has added a clear plastic front to add a touch of style. This and the stylised manual zoom and focus rings give it an impressive look. Its weight (2.9kg) makes it less than ideal for carrying around, but as a machine for an office it’s more than adequate. Coupled with the styling of the unit is the impressive array of connections located on the rear of the chassis. The main link on the XU55 is a DVi port for a direct connection, but there’s also a standard analogue adapter as well as S-Video and audio ports. With this array, users will be able to multi-source their presentations with ease.
It wasn’t only the connection options we were impressed with; the XU55’s specifications were equally impressive. The LCD projector is a high definition unit that has a 2500 ANSI lumen rating. With this degree of brightness, images are sharp and crisp. And, as the unit has a native resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels, it will synchronise with a standard laptop without having to stretch the image. Unfortunately, LCD technology doesn’t offer the contrast range of projectors using the rival DLP technology, so the 450:1 of the Sanyo is a little mean, but typical of LCD. With a 1-watt mono-speaker fitted into the unit, sound quality isn’t exceptional but, once again, is typical on this class of projector.
