Sections
- Page 1 Acer K137 Review
- Page 2 Picture Quality Review
- Page 3 Sound and Conclusions Review
Acer K137: Sound Quality
The K137 really is in a class of its own where its sound performance is concerned, producing volume levels and a dynamic range other pocket projectors can only dream about.
The sound even manages to radiate a noticeable distance beyond the confines of the projector, giving you an actual sense of scale to the soundstage that helps reduce the usual problem of projector sound whereby the audio seems distractingly dislocated from the onscreen action.
At full volumes action scenes can cause a little cabinet rattle and distortion, but you can enjoy far superior volumes to other projectors of this ilk well before you reach that max volume level.
Other Things to Consider
The remote control shipped with the K137 is a very small ‘credit card’ style device, and as such it’s not easy at all to use in a darkened room. Though it is very easy indeed to lose down the back of the sofa!
It’s not a total disaster, though, for it’s more thoughtful with its buttonry than many rivals, providing one-button access to a good number of the projector’s key features.
Should I buy an Acer K137?
If the Acer K137’s highlight features of bright, colourful pictures and startlingly powerful audio meet your specific requirements than the K137 is well worth considering. Its audio, in particular, is in a class of its own by ultra-portable projection standards.
Its flexibility is appealing too, as it turns its hand reasonably well in bright room conditions to both game/video and business uses.
However, its lack of black level response means its images don’t convince in dark conditions, and the projector’s problems showing small text might be an issue if you regularly have to do text-heavy presentations.
A strong alternative with a better all-round picture performance (but much worse audio!) is the BenQ GP10, while the most cleverly designed portable projector we’ve seen to date is the BEM Kickstand – though this costs £100 more.
Verdict
Acer is to be commended on trying to do something different with the K137. In fact, its audio performance is so strong versus its rivals that for some people it will be enough in itself to justify a purchase.
Its lack of black level response and slightly untidy text presentation mean it’s hardly a flawless portable option, but it’s always good to come across any projector these days with a genuine USP.
Next, read our BenQ GP10 review.
Trusted Score
Score in detail
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Value 7
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Features 8
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Image Quality 7
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Design 9
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
