Thread: Screen or Projector First?

Hey All,

Building a new home with a dedicated media room, 18'-3" x 11. I will be in the $3000-$5000 range for projector and fixed screen. Don't really know much about either. Which should I send the most money on upfront, screen or projector?

Suggestion for screens and projectors are welcome as I am just starting out. I know there is a conference coming up that will announce new projectors in a month or so. Oh, it will be 4 to 6 months on the new home.

Thanks in advance!!

You're probably referring to the CEDIA show in September and yes, there will be loads of announcements around new A/V product.

I haven't heard of any revolutionary new tech in the projector world to get itchy about so your best strategy may be to wait until the new products start hitting the street and then take advantage of clearouts on the just-replaced models. Pay special attention to the JVC projectors. You need a good screen. That means high quality, heavy backing and evenly applied coating to avoid hot-spotting. Hot-spotting is varying brightness around the screen resulting from the reflective coatings being applied carelessly. Needing a good screen doesn't mean having to spend huge money (Stewart Filmscreen) As good as these products are, and they are excellent, they don't fit your budget. Your room size will mean a screen size of between 92" - 120"; I think 106" would be about right in your space. You can find good fixed screens of that size for less than $500.

I wish I had the space for a dedicated theatre room. Honest, I don't hate you.

Panasonic is announcing their AE7000, 3D LCD 1080p. That's the one I'm eyeballing. MSRP of $3499, street price probably $2999. There are many affordable screens out there, but largest part of budget for pj.

Couple issues you should think about are which direction, 11' or 18', would the pj throw and can you experience RBE. These may narrow it down some.