I have an unique opportunity to buy a Vidikron Model 65 Cinewide w/ AutoScope for 11K. The lens on it is probably worth that much by itself. It’s a demo unit that is 6 mos. old, and has seen very little play time. Comes w/ full warranty, (manufacturer approved seller) and an extra bulb. What do ya think?

I can find zero reviews on this particular model anywhere here, or online.

The projector is going into a new home theater (currently at 80% build stage). Room is 20x19x11(H) w/ 2 rows of seating starting at app. 11-12' from screen.

I freely admit my newbie status in the world of home theater and projectors. I have not purchased a screen...or anything else for that matter...yet, and am certainly open to suggestions about that as well.

This just presented itself today, and I need to make a decision rather quickly on the PJ.

Thanks,

Kevin

Just from looking at the online product information...

- the lens looks like a schneider or isco, and certainly isn't worth 11k... but it *is* probably worth about half of that.

- 1200 ansi lumens is pretty good, but I'd pay particular attention to whether you were happy with the blacks and contrast, since the region of 3000:1 is pretty much eclipsed by other projectors these days.

- It's a single chip DLP, so I'd make sure that you and your family weren't sensitive to the rainbows.

Just a couple of quick thoughts.

Kevin

I have an unique opportunity to buy a Vidikron Model 65 Cinewide w/ AutoScope for 11K. The lens on it is probably worth that much by itself. It’s a demo unit that is 6 mos. old, and has seen very little play time. Comes w/ full warranty, (manufacturer approved seller) and an extra bulb. What do ya think?

I can find zero reviews on this particular model anywhere here, or online.

The projector is going into a new home theater (currently at 80% build stage). Room is 20x19x11(H) w/ 2 rows of seating starting at app. 11-12' from screen.

I freely admit my newbie status in the world of home theater and projectors. I have not purchased a screen...or anything else for that matter...yet, and am certainly open to suggestions about that as well.

This just presented itself today, and I need to make a decision rather quickly on the PJ.

Thanks,

Kevin
Buy a JVC RS20 for about half that.

Thanks for the quick reply Kev. Yeah, I see what you're looking at on the Vidikron website, and the lens pictured is about 1/2 the size of the one on this unit for sale. It is on a motorized sled that slides left and right as you adjust picture size. All I got out of the quick conversation is that the lens is German made, no particular brand mentioned.

Sorry, I see that I probably need to get some more info in order to properly arm you guys to make a logical reply.

Buy a JVC RS20 for about half that.


Damn...I guess I shoulda seen that coming. Or, 3/4 of it anyway. Yeah, I know. I'm on the "expressed interest" list as of 2 days ago.

Thanks for the quick reply Kev. Yeah, I see what you're looking at on the Vidikron website, and the lens pictured is about 1/2 the size of the one on this unit for sale. It is on a motorized sled that slides left and right as you adjust picture size. All I got out of the quick conversation is that the lens is German made, no particular brand mentioned.

Sorry, I see that I probably need to get some more info in order to properly arm you guys to make a logical reply.

I think that *all* the anamorphic lenses in that shape are made in Germany these days. The lens (and maybe the sled) will be something you'll probably be able to use with any projector you end up with for the near to mid (maybe even distant) future.

I think that if you're happy with the video you see (blacks in particular) it might be a decent deal. Do bear in mind that Runco is in the process of eliminating the Vidikron brand, so you're likely getting the advantage of stock liquidation.

Buy a JVC RS20 for about half that.

Add in the anamorphic lens + sled to the RS20 and you are right back up at the Vidikron price with 50% less brightness. Personally I would choose the RS20 as I am rainbow sensitive and the RS20 is just newer technology. But, if you like DLP and the slightly older technology in the Vidikron doesn't bother you then it is an ok deal.

Thanks for all of your input.

The JVC RS1 will trounce this image wise for 1/4 the cost. Now with the newer JVCs it's pretty obvious not to buy an overpriced, outdated and unsupported projector

Too much money for any single chip DLP projector if you ask me.

The contrast on that machine isn't so hot and it is a single chip DLP.

Really the only good things I see going for it is the anamorphic lens and the brightness.

So Bravo, what size screen are you planning on using etc.?

I would pass on the deal. Look to the new LCOS and LCD projectors.

Dan

Also, how long until you will be ready in your HT for a projector?

Also, how long until you will be ready in your HT for a projector?


Just finished the final layout yesterday with the cabinet makers. I'm guessing probably 45-60 days at the outside till we're ready to move in.

I was hoping for a 108"-120" screen, or as large as is feasible. Disregard screen size on attachment.

Room has no ambient light and no exterior windows.