I've got a Den/Office that I want to put a FP in for TV, Computer Gaming, and Movies.

The lighting is not very well controlled. There is a double hung window with Romain shades (I'll probably buy some drapes to help a little). And the entrance to the room is a 4' opening (no door) that is opened to a two story foyer with a large bay window in the second story of the foyer.

I'm not looking for a huge screen. Basically looking at about 72"-80" 16:9 Diagonal screen size. The throw will be from about 11' and the main viewing distance will be about 8.5'. I'd like a decent FP that is bright enough for the room, yet has good color and quality with reasonable black levels. (I'd probably be using it more often in the evenings when it gets darker... but I'd still like something "watchable" during the day with the curtains drawn).

Also, I'll be looking for lens shift. This will be sitting on top of the hutch that is part of my office desk and projecting onto the opposing wall (~6' or so high). It's position will have to be slightly off-center from the screen

Oh, and did I mention that I'm looking to spend only about $1000, or less, for the projector?

Any advice would be appreciated.

Do you think I'd see much benefit from a 1080 projector over a 720 projector with that screen size and viewing distance?

I'm hoping the relatively small screen size and throw distance will help me with light issues.

It's not really going to be a true HT. I was thinking of shelling out about $800-$1000 on a 37"-40" flat panel for the den, but I figured... for just a little more... why not have a lot more fun!

Thanks again for the help!

For @ $1K you will need to look at the Panasonic AX200u or the Epson Home Cinema 720 for your situation. No 1080p for $1K. Get a Dalite screen using the high power material.