Sim2 Nero 3-D Projector

By, Amir Majidimehr
Sim2 Nero Projector

The Nero 3-D is a newly introduced projector from Sim2 (as of October, 2011). Nero means black in Italian which in this case translates into “rubberized” matt finish black. This means that it feels as good to touch as it looks.

The unit is typical of other Sim2 projectors in that it is quite diminutive in size. Despite this, the level of light output is quite generous at 1,600 lumens which is 2 to 3 times more than the economy projectors. To test in real life, we used the Nero to light up the 17 foot wide (220 inch diagonal) screen in our reference theater. Not only did the Nero manage to create a bright image in this massive screen but did so when playing 3-D which normally saps fair amount of light from the projector.

Another bonus is the low noise level. Single chip DLP projectors sometimes have a high pitch whine due to the color wheel. Not so here. The Nero has a low frequency hush that almost disappears in the room. Again, given the relatively high level of brightness, this is a nice accomplishment, which when combined with the good looks, allows placement in the theater or living room as opposed to having to hide it. Take a look at the competing projectors and you see how industrial some of them look with whaling fans disturbing the audio experience.

Speaking of color wheel, a small percentage of people are able to see its effect in the form of color separation. I am unfortunately extremely sensitive to it to the point where I cannot watch the video from most single chip DLPs. To my delight, I could hardly see the so called “rainbow” effect. And when I did see it, it would vanish almost instantly. I had no trouble enjoying extended movie watching on this projector.

On the positive side, single chip DLP means there is only one imager so there is zero convergence error which can be caused by misalignment of panels in 3-chip units. While the Sim2 3-chip units have superb panel alignment – the best I have seen in its class – not having the issue whatsoever means that this projector produces incredibly sharp images. Projected on our large screen, it was startling to see such detail as fuzz on someone’s sweater!

Likewise, the sharpness and great contrast contributed to color fidelity that at times was jaw dropping and I don’t use that term lightly. No doubt part of this is due to use of larger DLP chips (0.95” DC4) as compared to the smaller 0.65” used in economy DLP projectors and much better lens quality.

The projector comes with a choice of two different lens options as to allow placement at short or long distances from the screen (the lens needs to be ordered at the same time as the projector). The short throw lens provides the best option though unless you have a very long room.

While not “cheap” this projector retails for less than half of our reference Sim2 Solo 3-D. Seeing how it can almost fulfill the same application of lighting large screens with incredible quality in addition to supporting 3-D means that it provides excellent price performance.

I am so impressed with this projector that I have decided to put one in my own theater! It is that good.

Read more:
Sim2 Specifications
Projector Technology Overview
3-D Video Primer

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