We have been toying with the idea of buying either a projector or large flat screen of some sort; preferably with a HD DVD player or other high def input other than our camcorder. TVs are still very heavy and change very rapidly. High Def projectors on the other hand are still quite expensive. We have waited quite a while and find ourselves waiting again. What are your thoughts? I think you said you have a projector. With many sources moving toward High Def, do you think that it is better to buy a non HD projector and hold out a while for HD, go for a large screen plasma/ LCD etc or… wait a bit longer? I seem to have ended up just waiting but the 20″ iMac screen that we are watching movies on 5-6 times a week is starting to wear on me.
We recently stopped using an InFocus ScreenPlay 4805
Even with an excellent projector and an expensive screen optimized for bright rooms, a darker viewing space is still better for watching movies. One factor to consider is whether or not you can create a dark space. Less expensive projectors generate a tremendous amount of fan noise, although that is quickly changing. You should also consider the price of replacement lamps. We’ve had our projector for nearly three years. We’ve replaced a lamp once, and I think it was about $200 for the new bulb.
I’m extremely happy with the Vizio HDTV. First of all, Vizio products are extremely affordable compared to other brands. There are at least two of every type of input. I love the picture quality and I like the design of the display.
TV Buying Advice »
May 24th, 2007 at 6:19 pm
The advantage of projection is two part.
First and most importantly. If you are building a home theater, you can’t beat the emotional impact of front projection. It’s just what watching movies should be.
Second, the projector (front projection) is much more expensive when you take in to account the need to control ambient light, the projector itself and finally the screen. However, once purchased the only part that you need to upgrade is the projector. So total cost of ownership drops for projected images the longer you live.
Go for front projection and get a popcorn popper. You can ‘t beat the experience.