I am looking for the best bang for my buck projector that I can use to do a 2.37:1 aspect ratio mounted from 20 feet back from the screen. Looking for best performance at this distance, including picture quality and especially brightness and also factor in price.

I was 1st looking at the Sony VW60, I love the price, but everyone says the distance is to far....

then started considering JVC Rs1 and Rs1x... I would have to add in the cost of an external scaler for this and considering the new model (RS2) is out, I really haven't been able to find that great of a deal on one, especially when factoring in the additional cost of a scaler. I would even consider open box, demo, used etc... but not having much luck.

Rs2 - does the stretch I need, but I hear it is much dimmer than the RS1, and of course the price is more....

I know this is a lot to ask, and right now I am leaning towards the JVC (not sure which one) - but what other projectors should I be considering for this.... please help!!

Thanks!!!

What size screen do you want?

You could always add a Navitar lens adapter to increase your throw distance. I think AVS sells these, and Alan has said they work well and don't degrade the picture quality. I believe he even used one with the original Sony Pearl (same lens as VW60, I believe).

Navitar Conversion Lenses (http://presentation.navitar.com/pages/product_information/screenstar_projection_conversion_lenses/overview.cfm)

You are probably better off posting this in the 2.35 CIH section...
I have the Sony and got some answers I needed there about 2.35. Your 20 foot throw is going to hurt you, though...
You also don't say if you are going to zoom or use a lense. If you are using a lense, then you are going to have to work with that set of equations too to avoid pincushion.etc.
Best,
Chris

Of all things, throw distance affects image size the most. As was asked before, we need to know how big a screen you would like to see to make sure it falls within the flexibility of the projector. Granted the RS1X and RS2 are some of the most flexible when it comes to those.

You also mention that the RS2 is dimmer. It is but given the context of a room enviromnet and what screen you choose it may be more than adequate for ft lamberts.

Also, the RS2 does not need an offboard scaler for CIH.

I think you should really try to view some of these before making a choice.

Some of your homework can be done here though:

1. How big is your room?
2. How big of a screen do you want?
3. Do you have ambient light?

You can also find out more about anamorphic lenses by contacting a dealer in your area or authorized dealers.

Richard

Yes, without knowing screen size, it's impossible to answer really. That said, many DLPs can work at that throw distance. The W5000/W20000 would work, probably want some gain on the screen though. The Infocus IN83 would work there too. All these have the requisite scaling modes for CIH as well.

The RS2 *does* need a scalar if you want to leave your lens in place. If you want to move your lens in and out, then it will handle the necessary stretch, but there's no toggle between the settings - you have to navigate through the menu.

I am in virtually the same situation. My screen size is fixed, and so is my projector location. The good news is that this significantly limits the options, the bad news is that this significantly limits the options. :)

In general, LCD and LCOS have much more flexibility in placement than DLP. The easiest way to determine your needs is to:
-figure out the throw you need (based on screen size) - yours is probably around 2.5
-if you want built in scaling, figure out if you want to move your lens or leave in place
-depending on how you use your lens, use the two columns on the right of this page to narrow down you projector options: http://www.panamorph.com/Compatibility.html (assuming you have a Panamorph, ISCO, or equivalent. also, TR in the second column indicates throw ratio)
-what's not listed on that list are all the Sim2 units, and the Planar 8150, which have the built-in scaling you need

The cheapest option for me is the BenQ 8720, which is 720p. You'll have to decide if the 1080p is worthwhile.

If you're willing to add an external scalar, your options improve significantly, and your projector prices go down.

Although I am aware of all of the above, I still can't make up my own damn mind. :)

Kelly

You do not need a scaler of you use a Prismasonic lens.

Richard

sorry.... I started this thread and then have been researching ever since and forgot about it and actually came upon it by accident today while doing a search....

To answer the questions posed:

Theater is dedicated with complete light control

Screen size, decided on 2.40:1 aspect ratio with a 48" high borderless screen, so it's all viewable area. I think that works out to aprox 115" wide, and about 125" diagonal.

I will be using a lens for anamorphic, have not purchased it yet, still looking.

I have narrowed it down to either an RS1, RS2, or VW60. I have also added the option of bringing the projector into the room a couple of feet or "floor mounting" it towards the front of the theater (build a projector stand/box deal)....

I have seen some deals on RS1's in the $3000 to $3600 range, but then I would need a scaler.

I have seen some Rs2's in the $5000 to $6000 range (of course more money)

And I have seen the VW60 in the $3500 range, but is not as favorably reviewed as the JVC's.

Any thoughts, opinions?

THANKS!!