Maxell MP-JU4001 3LCD Laser WUXGA Business Projector Review

Maxell expands their laser projector line with a 4,000 ANSI lumen, 3LCD MP-JU4001 designed for class and conference room environments. This new laser phosphor light source offers approximately 20,000 hours (normal mode) of operation time and since there is no lamp to replace, the unit is virtually maintenance-free for a reduced total cost of ownership. A new phosphor chip replaces the phosphor wheel and motor resulting in fewer moving parts for higher reliability. Maxell claims the color performance of this 3LCD projector produces the same brightness for white and all colors resulting in more accurate color representation and image quality. The MP-JU4001 offers a new cooling system that protects the optical unit from dust intrusion and lowers the noise level. Look further down in the article to see how this projector fares in the noise department. For added peace of mind, the MP-JU4001 offers a five-year warranty on parts and labor.

The MP-JU4001 is part of Maxell’s 3LCD projector lineup which are designed to deliver high performance in a conference, boardroom, or classroom without breaking the bank. With the ability to deliver up to 4,000 lumens, combined with the reliability and longevity of a laser light engine, the Maxell MP-JU4001 projector could be the perfect solution for someone looking for a mid-brightness business class projector. The MP-JU4001’s native resolution is WUXGA HD (1,920 x 1,200) but the projector accepts 1080@30P content.

WXGA is plenty sharp for K-12 applications. In education, you really only need the higher resolutions for special circumstances. For example, a video production, photography, yearbook, or graphic design class may want to have a WUXGA. Higher education may have more of a need for WUXGA, but rarely 4K, except in the case of medical films, scientific renderings, simulation, architecture, film and design applications.

Its dynamic contrast is rated by Maxell to deliver 2,000,000:1. As with all 3LCD projectors, the Maxell MP-JU4001 produces as many color lumens as it does white lumens, which ensures a bright, vibrant image when utilized in a meeting room, classroom, or mid-size lecture hall. The MPJU4001 laser light engine can deliver up to 20,000 hours in normal power mode. This 3LCD Maxell projector is playing in a price point dominated by Laser DLP and that could be this projector’s biggest advantage.

Let’s start with the basics. The Maxell MP-JU4001 is a 3LCD projector coming in well under 2K with a retail price of $1829 USD. The 3LCD technology used in this projector offers some distinct advantages over other systems like DLP. Unlike typical DLP projectors, there is no color wheel. Projected images produced by a 3LCD system should look better when you are in a space where it’s difficult to control ambient light. Not everyone has the option of having blackout curtains in a meeting room or a classroom. Sometimes, simple blinds are the best and only light control available.

While not as performance rich as its big brother, the MP-WU5503, and almost $1200 dollars less, the MP-JU4001 has a remarkably broad feature set. From my observations, the MP-JU4001 offers really good performance for an education projector in this price point and class. Let’s dive into the details of the Maxell MP-JU4001 education and business projector.