The AWOL LTV-3500 Pro projector is a powerhouse, offering stunning picture performance and a level of brightness that surpasses any other projector we’ve tested. However, its high price tag might give potential buyers pause. This review dives deep into its features, performance, and whether it justifies its cost.
Setup and Design
The LTV-3500 Pro, despite its size, is relatively straightforward to set up. Its ultra-short throw design allows it to sit close to the wall, eliminating the need for ceiling mounting. While it does lack automatic features like keystone correction, the manual adjustments are intuitive and user-friendly. The projector’s sleek design, with its matte gray finish and silver accents, exudes sophistication. Its feature-rich remote, though lacking backlit buttons, provides easy access to various settings and controls.
Inputs and Connectivity
The LTV-3500 Pro is well-equipped with numerous inputs, catering to a wide range of devices, including Blu-ray players, streaming devices, and more. Its dedicated HDMI input with a USB port for powering the included Fire TV Stick 4K Max keeps the setup clutter-free. While it runs on an Android 9.0-based operating system, the interface is streamlined and doesn’t offer built-in apps, ensuring a snappy experience. Wireless screen mirroring and Bluetooth speaker mode provide additional connectivity options.
Picture and Sound Features
The LTV-3500 Pro boasts an impressive 3,500 lumens of brightness, making it one of the brightest projectors on the market. This triple laser DLP optical system delivers a 4K (3,840 by 2,160) resolution picture with exceptional clarity, covering 107% of the Rec. 2020 color space. The projector also excels in both bright and dark rooms, thanks to its impressive black levels, attributed to its 2,500:1 contrast ratio. Its comprehensive HDR support, encompassing HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, and Dolby Vision, sets it apart from most projectors.
While it might not be the ultimate gaming projector, the LTV-3500 Pro offers respectable gaming capabilities, with a 60Hz refresh rate and 15ms lag time at 4K. Its Turbo Game mode, which drops the resolution to 1080p, delivers a faster 120Hz refresh rate and 8ms lag time, ideal for fast-paced games. The LTV-3500 Pro also supports 3D, and some retailers offer it bundled with two pairs of 3D Active Shutter glasses.
The projector’s built-in audio is surprisingly impressive. Its two 36-watt internal stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support deliver immersive sound. While not a replacement for a dedicated soundbar or home theater system, the LTV-3500 Pro’s audio is certainly commendable for a projector.
Performance
The LTV-3500 Pro’s exceptional brightness allows it to perform exceptionally well in both bright and dark rooms, making it a strong contender as a TV replacement. The picture quality remains outstanding regardless of lighting conditions, with minimal gray-washing in bright environments. The default picture settings are well-balanced, showcasing vibrant colors and deep blacks.
The projector offers a wide range of picture settings, allowing for precise tuning. While experimenting with these settings can be beneficial, it’s important to be mindful of over-saturation. The LTV-3500 Pro’s 3D performance is impressive, delivering clear and immersive images.
Final Thoughts
The AWOL LTV-3500 Pro is an undeniably impressive projector, delivering a theater-like experience with its exceptional brightness, color accuracy, and immersive sound. However, its hefty price tag is a significant obstacle for many. While the projector is often found on sale for a slightly discounted price, it’s essential to consider the additional cost of an ALR screen, which is highly recommended for optimal viewing. If the price remains a concern, exploring the LTV-3000 Pro or LTV-2500 might be more budget-friendly alternatives.
Ultimately, the LTV-3500 Pro is an exceptional projector that excels in both bright and dark rooms, offering top-notch picture quality and features. Its robust performance and future-proof technology make it an excellent long-term investment for serious home theater enthusiasts.
