The stage is set.
On May 2nd, two of our most popular projectors for classrooms and boardrooms alike squared off in a Projector Shoot-Out in our demo room. Hitachi's CP-X328 versus ASK Proxima's C180. Our emcee, Matt Hill fills us in on which projector outperforms, outshines and outwits.

Hitachi CP-X328 LCD Technology XGA Resolution 2000 ANSI Lumens 300:1 Contrast Ratio 6.0 Pounds ASK Proxima CP-180 LCD Technology XGA Resolution 2200 ANSI Lumens 400:1 Contrast Ratio 7.5 Pounds   At first glance, the Hitachi X328 has a very solid appearance and has bountiful connectivity. This projector has 2 computer inputs, a computer output, and more than adequate video inputs including an RCA component video input. Once turned on, the Hitachi had brilliant colors right out of the box and the brightness was more than enough to be seen with the overhead lights on. One thing that could be a distraction in small rooms was that the projector's fan was a little on the noisy side. But, in medium to larger rooms it would not be noticable.   The ASK Proxima C180 was also very impressive right out of the box. It has a small LCD panel on top of the projector that gives you real time information that could prove very valuable for users who are unfamiliar with projectors. To continue with this point, it also has automatic keystone correction to make set-up even easier. While the C180 is spec'd at 200 more lumens, I did not notice much of a difference in brightness between the two projectors. The overall image was very similar to the X328 and it would be difficult to tell which was which in a blind test. This ASK Proxima projector was a bit bulkier and heavier weighing in at 7.5 pounds, so it could become a nuisance for those who travel frequently.

Conclusion: Overall, both projectors have quite a bit in common. They have similar brightness, image quality, and are priced in the same general category. While both projectors have the ability to display HDTV using component video input, the Hitachi has a standard RCA input while the Proxima requires a special cable. Due to the Proxima's auto-keystone and LCD display panel, it would be a great unit for those new into the projector world. But, Hitachi's warranty is superior by providing a three year warranty that includes a free overnight loaner unit for the entire three years. This along with the combination of its compact size, would make it ideal for those who frequently travel and depend on not being without a projector. In addition, the price of the Hitachi CP-X328 is a little bit less than that of the ASK Proxima C180.