A system including a light source, a polarizing beam splitter, and first, second and third light valves is provided. The light source produces light in first, second and third wavebands in a second polarization direction. The beam splitter transmits the first waveband of light in a first polarization direction and the second and third wavebands of light in the second polarization direction. The first, second and third light valves reflect at least a portion of the respective first, second and third wavelength bands of light generally toward a projection lens.