Vivitek D554 SVGA Multimedia Projector Review
October 13, 2015 · Vivitek
Launched nearly two years ago, the Vivitek D554 is one of the latest iterations in the manfacturers’ D5 series. It’s a powerful SVGA projector that shares similarities with other D5 projectors like the D548, D551 and the D557. For example, it’s a DLP-based machine that delivers 3,000 lumens of brightness. That’s similar to other D5 projectors.
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Vivitek D554 Projector[/caption]
Additionally, the D554 can broadcast 3D images, it’s equipped with BrilliantColor technology, and can accommodate input from a range of connections including HDMI sources. In other words, the D554 is a powerful multimedia projection tool that’s well-suited for business and classroom presentations. Plus, it’s super portable, weighing just five pounds and with average zoom and image correction specifications.
If you’re on the market for an SVGA projector, the Vivitek D554 is a viable option that combines a range of functionality and an unbeatable price. From third-party sellers, the D554 starts at about $400, and used machines can be got for half of that. Pricing for new, capable projectors doesn’t get much more attractive than that.
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Vivitek D554 Projector - Rear Inputs[/caption]
Vivitek D554: Specifications and Features
There are a number of points that stand out, when looking at the D554’s spec sheet. First, is the brightness and contrast ratio. Images delivered by the D554 are bright, crisp and clear. Plus, additional features like its weight, lamp life and speaker add to the appeal. Here’s a look at some D554 specifications:
- Long Lamp Life: For a DLP-based projector, the D554 – and more broadly, the entire D5 Series – achieves long-lasting performance from its lamp. The D554’s lamp is rated at 5,000 hours in standard operating mode, which is boosted up to 6,000 hours in economy mode. That keeps maintenance costs at a minimum. Fortunately, the D554 – which shares a replacement bulb and lamp module with the D548, D551, D552, D553, D555, D557 – has a low-cost replacement lamp. The Vivitek D554’s replacement lamp (part number 5811118154-SVV) can still be purchased at a great price.
- Brightness and Contrast: Vivitek continues to produce powerful DLP projectors, and the D554 is a prime example. It delivers a 3,000-lumen image in the standard operating mode, which is ideal for spaces that don’t have control over ambient light. Fortunately, the brightness is matched with a 15,000:1 contrast ratio and BrilliantColor technology. The result is images that are precise, clear and color saturated, which is especially important in the lower resolution SVGA.
- Additional Features: Image quality and lamp performance are amazing with the D554, but there are a range of great features that back it up. These include a 2W mono speaker. The audio isn’t powerful enough for noisy classrooms and small conference spaces. In these cases, you’d likely need an external audio set-up. But for small classrooms and boardrooms, the speaker is an ideal plug-and-play option. Additionally, the projector is equipped with wired networking, HDMI input, and Full 3D.
- Super Lightweight: The D554 is ideal for on-the-go presentations due to its size. The projector weighs just 5 pounds, and it measures 3.7x10.8x8.4 inches. Plus, the projector has a 1.1:1 zoom ratio – not great, but useful – and digital keystone correction, which makes it easy to adapt the image to the screen.
Overall, the D554 – and other projectors in the D5 Series like the D548 – is a great SVGA projector. It delivers amazing images, a suite of useful features, and the price is right. For $400, the projector is budget friendly, but you won’t be sacrificing functionality for price. This is an ideal option for businesses or classrooms that need a SVGA machine.
