Hello all.

I think this is my first post (even though I read a lot).

Where is the Price vs Performance vs Serviceability "Sweet Spot" for CRT projectors?

I recently saw a stunning video display (G90) which encouraged me to do some research regarding CRT projectors. After doing some reading and analysis, I am considering joining your ranks as CRT enthusiasts. I will probably make a purchase sometime this summer and need some advice. I plan on using the CRT projector for HDTV, DVD (480p), Bluray, and possibly HTPC and computer graphics (flight simulator). I don’t want to start out with an entry level projector because I want to do clear 1080p, 16x9 (1.78), and I am a gadget geek. On the other end of the spectrum, spending $8k for a marquee 9500LC or G90 may not be feasible as well, however if that is the best way to go, I may wait a little longer and buy a high-performance CRT projector.

So this leads to the question...

In your opinion, where is the “Sweet Spot” regarding CRT projectors. I want performance at a reasonable price with the ability to find a part if something fails. Isnt that what we all want in life, not just our toys?

Thanks to all who respond in kind.

:mad::rolleyes::D <--what does this look like?

Carl

The best performance will come from a G90, but be aware those may have long-term reliability, serviceability, and parts-availability issues. 9500LC's are nearly as good, and are nearly bomb-proof and very serviceable. Parts are easily available. There's one on Videogon now that came from Tim Martin originally, after a full retube, but has sat in a shipping crate since then. I'd look into that.

There will be many here who will say an 8 inch cant do 1080p but ask Mikeby and Mike Parker and myself. We run 1080p on out 8 inch crts and think they are great.
to get the best performance you should also get a Video Processor to take full advantage of CRT multiple resolutions its capable of.
For serviceability The marquee brand is highly regarded because it is still the only CRT projector manufactured by VDC(maybe Ampros too by VDC ). check Out www.Curtpalme.com
for much more CRT info.

Athanasios

8" EM/LC like Sony G70 (G90's little brother) or NEC XG are definitely the sweet spot in CRT right now. Typically under 2-grand in excellent shape (a little more from a reseller), but can be had for less if you shop around. In many ways, you're getting a comparable picture to a digital projector at 2-3x the price. Will they all fully resolve 1080p? No. Will some? Maybe. Most probably won't unless you've got an excellent machine and lots of time and patience to learn setup well. But, who cares? Even if you're not fully resolving 1080p, it's still an amazing picture. I'm running 1080p on my G70 from Blu-ray and the picture is nothing short of incredible. It's gorgeous. It damn near looks like good 35mm film - even in my front row at ~1.2x from the screen. I'm amazed every time I go downstairs now when I think about how the level of picture quality I have right in my own basement, and much more money it would have cost me to get a comparable picture with a new digital projector.

SC

well i'm pretty much just going to Parrot what everyone else has already said. The real bang for buck "sweet spot" is the 8" EM focus machines. If you REALLY want full 1080P be prepared to spend at least $5K for a 9" and then you still need an HDMI converter device, cabling, screen, source, etc.
You should try and see a nice 8" machine locally with a true HD feed and preferably a Moome HDMI input card. You might quickly realize that the performance to be had here at this price point is amazing.

There is a Sony VPH1292 on ebay with a buy it now price of $1500.
If the tubes are good its worth looking at

There is a Sony VPH1292 on ebay with a buy it now price of $1500.
If the tubes are good its worth looking at

Hmm I might buy it for the frankenyokes!!!!! and part the rest out!!!
:D

Athanasios

I'm gonna have to go with...

http://www.breakers.com/media/parrot.jpg

...another parrot. 8" EM - but I'd stick to LC. It's the only thing I might want to change about my Barco 808s, and the price of entry isn't that much higher compared to the AC machines.