So, I'm getting ready to put in a projector and I could use some advice.

Audio Gear:
Front Speakers: Def. Tech. Mythos 2
Center Channel: Def. Tech. Mythos 3
Side Speakers: Def. Tech. UIW64A 6-1/2" In Ceiling
Rear Speakers: Def. Tech. Mythos Gem

Video Gear:
AVR: Denon AVR3808
Blu-Ray: PS3
Projector: TBD (I'm leaning towards the Mits HC5500) – Ceiling mounted
Screen: 100" - 110" DIY Screen

Here's a panoramic view of the room I'm going to use. http://www.magtoo.com/tour.do?method=viewMagShow&id=1233512943926

And here's a pic of the wall I want to project on… it’s around 123” long.
http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q22/james_m_l/DSC00248Stitchw-screen.jpg

So here are my first few questions:

The window by the screen wall faces south-east so I will get some afternoon light. Would the Mits HC5500 be bright enough for that room or will I need curtains? The seating will be 10’ – 12’ from the screen and the projector will be a similar distance depending on screen size. Any other 1080p projectors that could be had in that $1500 - $2000 street price range (after rebates, etc)?

I’m a also little concerned about placing a speaker so close to the corner (It will be between 7” – 12” from the corner). Is that speaker location going to give me problems with my sound stage or sound imaging? Could I place all my speakers along the side walls pointing inwards (except the center channel)?

Any other recommendations to get the most out of my current gear in that location or setting up the viewing positions? I’m a noob to projectors, so please be kind.

You might want to consider the Panasonic 3000. For gaming and non-calibrated critical sources, it is one of the brightest projectors in this price range. For calibrated pictures, the 3000 is close to the Mit 6500. You'll get richer blacks on the panasonic.

Regardless, I'd have blinds there to use if needed. For afternoon leasure watching, you may be ok. Just don't expect perfect results.

My biggest flag is your accoustics. Are you considering acoustic panels? Your arched ceiling will help cancel some sound but w/ the big space, open walls and wood floors, my guess is a "clap test" will results is echos. Audio will sound rough.

You might want to consider the Panasonic 3000. For gaming and non-calibrated critical sources, it is one of the brightest projectors in this price range. For calibrated pictures, the 3000 is close to the Mit 6500. You'll get richer blacks on the panasonic.

Regardless, I'd have blinds there to use if needed. For afternoon leasure watching, you may be ok. Just don't expect perfect results.

My biggest flag is your accoustics. Are you considering acoustic panels? Your arched ceiling will help cancel some sound but w/ the big space, open walls and wood floors, my guess is a "clap test" will results is echos. Audio will sound rough.

Thanks for the input tv... I did a clap test and don't have much of an echo. With the rugs and furniture in the room I think I'll be okay acoustically. I have the same audio equipment set up in another room of similar size and it's working pretty well.

I know I'm not going to get the audio or video quality of a dedicated theater room, but it should be a pretty good setup.

One thing that a friend of mine pointed out is the line of sight to the right of the screen could be distracting if there were lights on in the hallway or something. I'm not sure how to test that except maybe if I could borrow a pj from work or something.

The Panasonic PT-AE3000U is on my list, but I think it's about $500 over my budget.

Thanks again for the ideas.

But I would add $500 well spent along with some blackout blinds which will add another $130 or so a window.