The JVC DLA-NZ700 is a high-end 4K home theater projector that has garnered significant attention for its impressive image quality, advanced features, and overall performance.
JVC DLA-NZ700
Design and Build Quality
The JVC DLA-NZ700 features a sleek, professional design typical of JVC’s premium projectors. It has a robust, solid build with a matte black finish that minimizes reflections and blends well into any home theater setup.
The projector is relatively large and heavy, so it’s best suited for dedicated home theater rooms with proper mounting or placement options.
Image Quality
One of the standout features of the DLA-NZ700 is its exceptional image quality. It utilizes JVC’s proprietary 0.69-inch D-ILA (Direct Drive Image Light Amplifier) technology, which delivers native 4K resolution (4096 x 2160 pixels) without pixel shifting, ensuring crisp, detailed images.
Brightness: The projector offers a peak brightness of around 1,900 lumens. While not the brightest on the market, it is sufficient for most dark to moderately lit home theater environments.
Contrast: The DLA-NZ700 excels in contrast ratio, with a dynamic contrast ratio of over 1,000,000:1. This allows for deep, rich blacks and excellent shadow detail, which is crucial for cinematic viewing.
Color Accuracy: JVC has incorporated advanced color processing technologies, including HDR10 and HLG support, and the projector covers a wide color gamut (Rec. 709 and DCI-P3). The colors are vivid and natural, with excellent gradation and no noticeable banding.
HDR Performance: HDR content looks spectacular on the NZ700, with well-managed highlights and a balanced tone mapping that preserves detail in both bright and dark scenes.
Lens and Optics
The projector employs a high-quality 17-element, 15-group all-glass lens assembly with motorized zoom, focus, and lens shift.
This allows for precise image alignment and easy installation flexibility. The lens shift range is generous, enabling off-center mounting without image distortion.
Features and Connectivity
Inputs: The NZ700 includes multiple HDMI 2.0 inputs compatible with HDCP 2.2, supporting 4K/60p and HDR content. It also has an RS-232 port and a 12V trigger for integration with home automation systems.
Processing: The projector features JVC’s latest video processing engine, which includes frame interpolation (Clear Motion Drive) and a 3D mode (active shutter glasses required).
Calibration: It offers extensive calibration controls, including gamma adjustment, color management system (CMS), and multiple picture modes. This makes it highly customizable for enthusiasts looking to fine-tune their viewing experience.
Performance in Use
Gaming: While primarily a home theater projector, the NZ700 can be used for gaming. However, its input lag is moderate (~30-40 ms), so it’s better suited for casual gaming rather than competitive play.
Movies: The projector shines in movie playback, particularly in dark scenes and HDR content. The combination of deep blacks, wide color gamut, and sharp 4K resolution provides a truly immersive cinematic experience.
3D Capability: The projector supports 3D playback, which is a bonus for users who enjoy 3D movies, although 3D content is less common nowadays.
Noise and Heat
The DLA-NZ700 runs relatively quietly, with fan noise measured around 24-26 dB in eco mode, which is unobtrusive in a typical home theater setting. It generates moderate heat, so proper ventilation is recommended to ensure longevity.
Pros
True native 4K resolution with D-ILA technology.
Exceptional contrast ratio and deep blacks.
Excellent HDR performance with wide color gamut.
High-quality lens with motorized zoom, focus, and lens shift.
Comprehensive calibration options.
Quiet operation suitable for home theaters.
Cons
Moderate brightness may struggle in rooms with ambient light.
Larger and heavier, requiring sturdy mounting.
Input lag not ideal for competitive gaming.
Premium price point.
Verdict
The JVC DLA-NZ700 is a top-tier projector designed for serious home theater enthusiasts seeking outstanding 4K image quality with rich contrast and vibrant colors.
Its native 4K resolution and superior HDR handling make it ideal for cinematic movie viewing in a controlled lighting environment.
While it may not be the best choice for brightly lit rooms or competitive gamers, its performance in dedicated home theaters is exceptional.
If the budget allows, the DLA-NZ700 is an excellent investment for those who prioritize picture quality and immersive viewing experiences.