JVC DLA-X5900 Review: A Mid-Level, Near 4K Projector

If you’re familiar with the high-end projector market, you’ve almost certainly heard of JVC. Known for offering a strong value to videophiles and casual consumers alike, JVC’s reputation is maintained with the DLA-X5900. While there aren’t any game-changing design modifications when compared to previous generation models, there are enough minute improvements to make this projector an enticing prospect for those looking at purchasing a 4k projector.

With JVC’s strong reputation for consistent and high-quality projectors in mind, let’s delve into the JVC DLA-X5900 to see if it might offer the right combination of modern features and timeless dependability for your needs.

Noteworthy Specifications:

• A 265W high output NSH lamp offers a brightness of up to 1,800 lumens
• An impressive contrast ratio of 40,000:1 without Intelligent Lens Aperture selected
• JVC’s patented Intelligent Lens Aperture delivers a dynamic contrast ratio that has the capability of reaching a ratio of 400,000:1
• When an HDR10 signal is received, this model will automatically switch to the correct HDR picture mode
• Clear Motion Drive frame technology and the Motion Enhance feature combine to minimize distracting motion blur while the projector is in use

Overview of Features:

• This model utilizes the same 265W lamp as its predecessor, the X5500. While this isn’t an enticing prospect for those looking to upgrade their projector, a dependable lamp-life of 4,500 hours combined with improvements in contrast make up for the lack of a groundbreaking upgrade.
• 4K-levels of video quality are claimed, but not through true 4K technology. Instead of offering genuine 4K like many projectors at this price-point, JVC relies on their proprietary e-Shift system to produce a picture quality that is essentially twice that of 1080p and thus considered to be 4K.
• As far as connectors go, the offerings on the DLA-X5900 are exactly the same as its X5500 predecessor. Considering the fact that there hasn’t been a huge change in the connector space since JVC’s last iteration, this is a forgivable (yet unimaginative) situation, as all of the standard and necessary connections, such as HDMI, an RS232 connector, and Ethernet port, are offered.

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Pros and Cons of the DLA-X5900

Pros:

• With a price point that is reasonably affordable for the features included, this model represents a solid value. While much of the technology featured within the DLA-X5900 is borrowed from the previous-generation X5500, it is improved upon in a way that makes it feel fresh and attractive, even to the most committed videophiles.
• The DLA-X5900 has excellent colour spectrum, allowing for vivid colours and deep, rich blacks. Users will notice this especially when viewing dynamic films, such as Dunkirk, will especially take notice of this.
• Housed within an attractive form factor, you can realistically place this unit anywhere within a room without the projector feeling intrusive. Whether in a living room or office space, the DLA-X5900 will be a welcome addition to any space.

Cons:

• As reported by avforums, the picture and colour accuracy out of the box leaves much to be desired. However, this can be easily fixed with a little bit of time spent on calibration.
• JVC’s e-Shift system, which essentially combines two 1080p resolutions over each pixel, doesn’t allow for true 4K resolution. While the resolution of DLA-X5900 basically amounts to 4K, hardcore videophiles will likely be able to notice this discrepancy.
• Those who are passionate about viewing 3D films in their home will likely want to look elsewhere for quality 3D projector. JVC projectors, including the DLA-X5900, are notorious for their issues with crosstalk (i.e. double ghosting) when playback of 3D video is attempted.
• One more point on the topic of crosstalk: In fairness, JVC has recently made strides when it comes to problems with double ghosting, but their history should be enough to make 3D videophiles wary. It is important to note that the DLA-X5900 performs better than similarly priced Sony models in this area, as reported by avid users of both products.

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Why should anyone spend their money on the JVC DLA-X5900?

Like many projectors, the DLA-X5900 certainly has its quirks. Well documented issues such as crosstalk and questionable plug-and-play capabilities may be enough to make hardcore videophiles think twice before investing in this projector. However, it could also be argued that these imperfections are what help to make the JVC DLA-X5900 projector endearing to those considering the purchase of a new unit. At a price point that is slightly lower than other competitor’s offerings, JVC is able to deliver a strong value proposition to consumers, which helps to make the minor issues associated with the DLA-X5900 more forgivable.

Now, the DLA-X5900’s lack of true 4K resolution is a completely different issue. Both passionate videophiles and casual film fans will likely take issue with the fact that this model does not have true 4K resolution. This is more than understandable, as the ability to enjoy one’s favourite content in the highest resolution currently available to consumers is the aspiration of anyone interested in such technology. However, it is worth noting that JVC’s e-Shift system has been constantly improving since its inception some years ago.

Currently in its fourth iteration, the technology, which overlays two HD-resolution pixels over each other to produce a visual effect that is very close to true 4K quality, allows for a viewing experience that appears almost identical to actual 4K to the untrained eye. With this being said, the nature of the e-Shift system is highly technical and can be confusing for some. We suggest that those interested in learning more about the technology, and whether or not it is right for them, check out JVC’s definitive guide on the technology.

For those that are not die-hard fans of 4K video, opting for JVC’s e-Shift system may be a wise choice. When one factors in the far lower price associated with JVC’s near-4K resolution, it may be worth it to opt for this lesser video technology. This fact, combined with a sleek, attractive form factor, may be enough to convince even the most skeptical consumer that the DLA-X5900 is a solid option for those looking to combine high-resolution with a reasonable price point.

Conclusion: JVC’s DLA-X5900 is a Great Choice for Most

With an impressive combination of technical specifications, a reasonable price point, and an attractive form factor, the JVC DLA-X5900 offers more than enough to convince casual videophiles and everyday film fans to make this projector a part of their home theatre setup. However, due largely to the fact that the DLA-X5900 lacks true 4K and has a number of quirky features, this projector will likely leave much to be desired for hardcore videophiles.

This is an unfortunate conclusion to come to, as JVC has done a great job of improving upon their product offerings over the years. Known for their dependability and steady improvements, the DLA-X5900 comes close to being the best budget projector on the market available for the needs of all consumers. Yet, it is not quite enough to satisfy those who have die-hard opinions regarding video quality.

For a budget-priced projector, the JVC DLA-X5900 offers a fantastic projector for the price. In a generation or two, it is likely that JVC’s proprietary e-Shift system will be improved to the point that even the most attended eye cannot tell the difference from true 4K. Until then, this projector can only be suggested for those who do not consider themselves die-hard fans of 4K, as most consumers outside of this niche category will be extremely satisfied with the quality offered by the JVC DLA-X5900 projector.

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