This will be my first projector TV. I will be setting it up in an unfinished basement where I have controlled lighting, 9ft. ceilings, and an unlimited amount of room. I will probably want to use a 100inch. screen and I will mainly be using this for gaming on xbox 360.

I've narrowed my preference of projectors down to the Optoma HD72 and the Panasonic PT-AX200U. Unless I can get some other input on what I should be looking at. I'm looking to spend around $1,500 total for projector and screen.

Questions:
1.)Out of the two I've picked which one would be the better buy?
2.)Will either of these two projectors have the necessary component cable ports on the back for the xbox 360?
3.)What kind of screen should I get?

Any other input on this would be greatly appreciated.

I was in the same boat trying to decide between these two for my first projector. I ended up going witht the AX because my 7'10" ceilings made it difficult to deal with the HD72 offset. Other than that, it sounds like both are very good with their own pros/cons.

A particular review I found helpful on the AX was at projectorreviews.com

My AX is scheduled to be delivered tomorrow so I can't tell you what I think yet, but I wouldn't be able to compare the two anyway.

In case you go for the AX, I attached a rebate form for a $400 best buy card and a 2nd year warranty (saw it valued at $250) when you buy from an authorized Reseller. I bought mine from ProjectorPeople.com and have not had any problems.

Enjoy,
IndyDux

I was in the same boat trying to decide between these two for my first projector. I ended up going witht the AX because my 7'10" ceilings made it difficult to deal with the HD72 offset. Other than that, it sounds like both are very good with their own pros/cons.

A particular review I found helpful on the AX was at projectorreviews.com

My AX is scheduled to be delivered tomorrow so I can't tell you what I think yet, but I wouldn't be able to compare the two anyway.

In case you go for the AX, I attached a rebate form for a $400 best buy card and a 2nd year warranty (saw it valued at $250) when you buy from an authorized Reseller. I bought mine from ProjectorPeople.com and have not had any problems.

Enjoy,
IndyDux

Actually the "rebate" is a free 52 DVD rental from blockbuster, which they estimate is a 400 dollar value.

I saw this deal being discussed in the ax200 thread.

If i can get any more input on what I should get within the next couple of hours. I need to make a decision on this before noon today. Please help.:confused: