AVS › AVS Forum › Gaming & Content Streaming › Home Theater Gaming › PlayStation Area › What projector will best suit my PS3 home theater?
New Posts  All Forums:Forum Nav:

What projector will best suit my PS3 home theater?

post #1 of 24
11/8/09 at 7:27pm
Thread Starter 
Peace.

I am looking for a home theater projector & screen to suit my needs, please send me a list of possible choices.

I am a movie watcher, and I want the best quality picture possible for my price range.

Also, I want to connect my Playstation 3 to the projector. In truth, the Playstation 3 will be the central device of my home theater. The game console has a HDMI 1.3 cable that supports up to 1080p. So this is the standard of resolution I'm looking for.

I will also like to connect my lap top computer to the projector.

I would like for it to cost under $1000.00 but my spending limit can not exceed $1500.00. If all these things are possible for under $1000.00, then GREAT! If not, then the next best price will do.

I may in the future want to use the projector for presentations, but this is not the priority. Only after all of the initial qualities are covered, should this be considered.

In addition, I need help finding a suitable fixed (velvet)frame screen. Preferably 83" - 90". I would like the screen to reflect the best picture possible. My price range for this is $200.00 - $400.00.

What should I be considering when thinking of setting up a system like this?
What are some fundamental questions I should ask?
What am I not mentioning/asking in the above text that will be detrimental to my home theater system?

If anyone has any suggestions on where I can get what I'm looking for, please feel free to share that information.

I reside in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. (just in case this is of any help)

My home theater is a living room which is very open. The ceiling is 8'1" high and the distance between the furthest place I can mount the projector and where I want the screen is 15'. The projector will be ceiling mounted. I currently have hard wood floors but I will be installing a mild-dark tan colored carpet. The walls will split between a mild tan on the top half and a burgundy on the bottom half. The ceiling color is yet to be determined but I'm choosing between doing a mix of the two colors or just straight mild tan. I will have a I-R controlled lighting system put in. I also want to place a light behind the screen as did in this youtube video under Home theater IR lighting. I have a patio door through which there is no direct sunlight and the area can be relatively dark but not movie theater dark during daylight hours. There is a option of putting a curtain up for seclusion and a darkening effect for the area during those daylight hours.(What do you think?) I also researched reviews (on projectorreviews website) on the three projectors that mnnc suggested and found the epson 8100 to best suit my very elementary desires of what I think I'm looking for. Yet, I saw nothing concerning gaming with these projectors! I would like to learn more about the compatibility of the PS3 and such projectors. If you all have any suggestions on where I can find such information that will also be of great help? (I called Sony, they seem to have about as much information on PS3/projector compatibility as I do!) Also, I do not understand if the projector will or wont be able to be mounted on my 8'1" ceiling and still give me at least 80" of picture? I also have a question about lamp life and how this effects the overall performance of the projector? When 4000 hours is up and the lamp dies, will I be able to replace the lamp myself? How much will it cost? How will the projector perform afterwards? Will my projector last me for at least 10 years if used for an average of 50 hours a week and its well taken care of? As far as screens go, what will be my choices after you all consider all the information above? Again, I do want quality, but at a reasonable price. I don't want to pay over $500.00 for a screen. I would much rather pay $200.00 - $400.00 if possible.


Can you all help me?
Reply
Reply

AVS Top Picks

post #2 of 24
11/9/09 at 6:00am
I suggest you venture over to the projector section, I'm sure you will get the exact help you need for your specific needs. http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forum...ysprune=7&f=68
Reply
Reply
post #3 of 24
11/9/09 at 7:29am
In your price range I would suggest you look into the following projectors:

Optoma HD20
Mitsubishi HC3800
Infocus X10
BenQ W1000

Personally I would spend the screen money on a better projector, get a screen later and buy one of these projectors:

Epson 8500UB
Panasonic AE4000

I would also purchase a 3 year 2 bulb replacement warranty from Mack.
Reply
Reply
post #4 of 24
11/9/09 at 7:48am
Yeah, get the best projector you can buy and care about the screen later, even in a bare wall you will be impressed. The good thing about starting with a wall is that that way you can try different sizes. Maybe right now you think 80'' is big enough, but then you'll see that 100'' or 120'' is actually perfect for you, that way you didn't spend money in a screen that is smaller.
Reply
Reply
post #5 of 24
11/9/09 at 8:12am
Quote:
Originally Posted by dysfunction26 View Post

In your price range I would suggest you look into the following projectors:

Optoma HD20
Mitsubishi HC3800
Infocus X10
BenQ W1000

Personally I would spend the screen money on a better projector, get a screen later and buy one of these projectors:

Epson 8500UB
Panasonic AE4000

I would also purchase a 3 year 2 bulb replacement warranty from Mack.

+1

That being said. I've got the X10 hooked up to my ps3 and the result is nothing short of 96" of sweetness. I had an almost identical budget to you when looking at projectors and screens. The one thing I didn't take into account is just how much drop the X10 has. In other words, if you mount your projector on the ceiling you really have to account for how much lower the image will be. Some projectors have adjustable drop, but the X10 does not. With 8' ceilings, this might be the wrong PJ for you. YMMV
Reply
Reply
post #6 of 24
11/9/09 at 8:25am
I'm a projector guy. I disagree with what these guys are telling you. The screen is a far better investment than the projector. If you can figure that out first you're much better off in the long run. Borrow a projector and mess around until you decide on size. Take some trips and see some systems to make your choice on AT screens. It's a big deal.
Reply
Reply
post #7 of 24
11/9/09 at 9:44am
Quote:
Originally Posted by msmCutter View Post

I'm a projector guy. I disagree with what these guys are telling you. The screen is a far better investment than the projector. If you can figure that out first you're much better off in the long run. Borrow a projector and mess around until you decide on size. Take some trips and see some systems to make your choice on AT screens. It's a big deal.

I have owned 4 projectors, the projector is more important than the screen. A screen in the $200-$400 is not going to be a huge improvement. I would rather have the Epson 8500UB and project on a wall than have an Optoma HD20 and project on a low end screen. As long as you have a white,beige wall you will be fine. You can even buy some paint for like $20-$30 and paint it a better color until you have money for the screen.

If you have never owned a projector before, you will be blown away by seeing it on a bare wall. I went from an off white wall to a $200 screen and there wasn't much improvement. Get all the projector you can, the cheaper projectors can't even compare to the Epson, or the Panasonic. You will have a lot more placement flexibility with those two as well.
Reply
Reply
post #8 of 24
11/9/09 at 9:48am
Quote:
Originally Posted by msmCutter View Post

I'm a projector guy. I disagree with what these guys are telling you. The screen is a far better investment than the projector. If you can figure that out first you're much better off in the long run. Borrow a projector and mess around until you decide on size. Take some trips and see some systems to make your choice on AT screens. It's a big deal.

So, you think a 720p projector from 6 years ago projected on a $1,000 screen will look better than the Epson 8500UB, or Panasonic AE4000 on a white wall?
Reply
Reply
post #9 of 24
11/10/09 at 8:59am
I agree with the budget of the screen. You're probably better off painting a wall well than spending $200 on a screen. I'm pretty sure if you get yourself a Stewart or the like you're better off in the long run than buying a fancy AE4000. You'll be looking to replace that $2k projector in 5 years. The screen will still be good. I look at it as $2k down the drain after 5 years vs. $0 depreciation for the screen if you get it right. ROI is better.

I'd say he's better off getting a sub $1k 720p projector and throwing it on a good screen than putting all his money into an asset that'll be no good in a few years. I look at it like driving or better yet motorcycles. I think you'll drive faster over the course of your lifetime if spend the money on training and track time than if you spent loot cakes on your car/bike. That means it's money better spent in book.

I actually think he'd dig the cheap projector on the wall so long as he didn't see the fancy projector on a good screen. You have to at least consider that as an option.
Reply
Reply
post #10 of 24
11/10/09 at 11:39am
Quote:
Originally Posted by msmCutter View Post

I agree with the budget of the screen. You're probably better off painting a wall well than spending $200 on a screen. I'm pretty sure if you get yourself a Stewart or the like you're better off in the long run than buying a fancy AE4000. You'll be looking to replace that $2k projector in 5 years. The screen will still be good. I look at it as $2k down the drain after 5 years vs. $0 depreciation for the screen if you get it right. ROI is better.

I'd say he's better off getting a sub $1k 720p projector and throwing it on a good screen than putting all his money into an asset that'll be no good in a few years. I look at it like driving or better yet motorcycles. I think you'll drive faster over the course of your lifetime if spend the money on training and track time than if you spent loot cakes on your car/bike. That means it's money better spent in book.

I actually think he'd dig the cheap projector on the wall so long as he didn't see the fancy projector on a good screen. You have to at least consider that as an option.

I would get a $1,000 1080p (Optoma or BenQ) and a good screen before a sub $1,000 720p. The problem with the low cost 1080p, is they are all DLP, which is a pain to install. I have owned DLP and LCD. I liked the DLP's a lot, but I did not like the offsets. When I moved I decided on going with an LCD for placement flexibility. I have mine mounted on top of a 7' bookshelf. With the ease of use I don't think I will ever go back to DLP.
Reply
Reply
post #11 of 24
11/10/09 at 12:08pm
What about the Epson 6100? Its down to $1500 now and its 1080p and I read somewhere that it has low latency which is good for gaming
Reply
Reply
post #12 of 24
11/10/09 at 1:46pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by msmCutter View Post

I agree with the budget of the screen. You're probably better off painting a wall well than spending $200 on a screen. I'm pretty sure if you get yourself a Stewart or the like you're better off in the long run than buying a fancy AE4000. You'll be looking to replace that $2k projector in 5 years. The screen will still be good. I look at it as $2k down the drain after 5 years vs. $0 depreciation for the screen if you get it right. ROI is better.

I'd say he's better off getting a sub $1k 720p projector and throwing it on a good screen than putting all his money into an asset that'll be no good in a few years. I look at it like driving or better yet motorcycles. I think you'll drive faster over the course of your lifetime if spend the money on training and track time than if you spent loot cakes on your car/bike. That means it's money better spent in book.

I actually think he'd dig the cheap projector on the wall so long as he didn't see the fancy projector on a good screen. You have to at least consider that as an option.


We sell, and i use, paint on screen.
Reply
Reply
post #13 of 24
11/10/09 at 2:12pm
Dystfunctional, the actual projector isn't as important as the price. He should pick the best cheap one he can find I don't care if it's an easier to install 720p LCD or a more challenging 1080p DLP - just don't spend the whole budget on it and neglect the better long term asset.

Dan, I think you'll agree that quality screen (painted or otherwise) is a sound investment. I'm also pretty sure that it would cost at least $200 to use the paints you guys sell after materials, prep, primer, paint, clean up etc. At that point I'm certain he'd enjoy your painted product better than a cheap screen (unless he was really stuck on AT which your paint just can't do...).
Reply
Reply
post #14 of 24
11/10/09 at 3:06pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by msmCutter View Post

Dystfunctional, the actual projector isn't as important as the price. He should pick the best cheap one he can find I don't care if it's an easier to install 720p LCD or a more challenging 1080p DLP - just don't spend the whole budget on it and neglect the better long term asset.

Dan, I think you'll agree that quality screen (painted or otherwise) is a sound investment. I'm also pretty sure that it would cost at least $200 to use the paints you guys sell after materials, prep, primer, paint, clean up etc. At that point I'm certain he'd enjoy your painted product better than a cheap screen (unless he was really stuck on AT which your paint just can't do...).

Yes, because the black levels/contrast on a cheap 2-3 year old 720p would hold up against the Panasonic AE4000. The AE4000 on a white wall would look better than what you are suggesting. He can upgrade to a screen later. I actually preferred a painted wall, I painted the whole wall with silverscreen and could adjust screen size whenever I chose to do so. More than likely I will sell the screen I have and paint in the new place, I miss the freedom.

I had the Planar PD7130 which is a very respectable 720p projector, it could not compare to the picture I get from my Epson 6500UB.
Reply
Reply
post #15 of 24
11/11/09 at 5:54am
Dan, I think you'll agree that quality screen (painted or otherwise) is a sound investment. I'm also pretty sure that it would cost at least $200 to use the paints you guys sell after materials, prep, primer, paint, clean up etc. At that point I'm certain he'd enjoy your painted product better than a cheap screen (unless he was really stuck on AT which your paint just can't do...).[/quote]

I , by the way, am not suggesting buying from me. ALWAYS buy local if you have a source...

Sorry i just wanted to clear that up, i dont own or plug the business with that intension, i was distracted at time of posting and failed to provide any valued input.

I prefer the paint on screens and some trim to frame it to size. If done properly the wall that is now the screen appears to float and its pretty sweet!

First: I would say spend the money on the good projector. If you have any extra get a screen paint. Pay attention to your lighting enviroment, the different paints do make a difference.

The Paint on screen brand is the best i have seen

Paint On Screen
3DHD Silver Screen

Also

They make tape to frame it(or maybe thats goo systems>?)

But yes the money first on the projector that is where you notice the most difference for the amount of money.

Secondly: would be, or maybe more important honestly, is your lighting and shading.

You can have a well lit room perform well, based on how its lit. The lighting in a room can ruin any projector.

Third: Screen...paint... Sheets
Reply
Reply
post #16 of 24
11/11/09 at 9:46pm
Thread Starter 
Peace.

What about the Visual Apex Vapex screens?(They have a ad at the top of this page) Are they quality screens? What is a good investment for a screen? What is the difference in expensive screens and one like the $350.00 Vapex?
Reply
Reply
post #17 of 24
11/12/09 at 8:13am
The big differences are the frame itself and the surface. Some screens give a moire effect. Others change the color balance. Some have a pattern you can see that is distracting or distracts from the sharpness of the lines. They all have trade offs like gain, hotspoting etc.

If you're going non-AT I'd get a stewart or one of those fancy Da-light John Kain screens. Pricey, but cool.

Like these guys are saying, if you're just worried about right now, the better projector is going to make the better image on a painted wall than a cheap one on a better screen. however, if you go down this road you're going to go to the next level and you will end up buying another projector down the road. At that point, which is a better investment, a screen or an old tired projector? meanwhile, if you go cheaper projector you'll still enjoy it and get a bigger increase or jump when you upgrade in 3-5 years.
Reply
Reply
post #18 of 24
11/12/09 at 8:53am
Quote:
Originally Posted by AHDAHM View Post

Peace.

What about the Visual Apex Vapex screens?(They have a ad at the top of this page) Are they quality screens? What is a good investment for a screen? What is the difference in expensive screens and one like the $350.00 Vapex?

screens vary by the gain and reflection. What is the lighting condition in your room? Is it a basement, a theater, a living room?

You see so many options, due to enviroments effect on the images. the best screen is one targeted toward your home specifically. It doesnt mean higher price.

Someone mentioned that seeing the screen can be annoying. And i have found that low low cost screens seem to have lines or trianglular shapes that can been seen when teh image is displayed.

I suggest a dalite or draper(i have had good luck with both) i dont know any of the screens advertized, so i can neither recommend or steer away.
Reply
Reply
post #19 of 24
11/12/09 at 1:08pm
The Viewsonic Pro8100 and Elite SilverFrame Power Gain 120" screen combo would be a very good fit for you based on your needs and budget, and should certainly be on your consideration list. The Pro8100 is getting hard to find, but is by FAR the absolute best image you are going to get for your mixed media environment. I looked at much more costly alternatives, and you would be hard pressed to get as good an image out of combos costing twice as much. You can check out the Pro8100 thread in the above $3k projector forum (original msrp was $5K). Expect to pay between $1299 - $1500 for the PJ and $300 for the screen. Feel free to PM me if you have specific questions. Once you go big screen, everything else will pail in comparison!
Reply
Reply
post #20 of 24
11/12/09 at 1:15pm
Question: If I was going to project directly on a wall and I don't want a paint on screen, just a gray wall, is there a kind of paint that would be better to use? I understand this is not ideal, but I don't want a screen or a taped up box on the wall. The room is going to be almost 100% dark when its used because its a basement. Thanks for the info!
Reply
Reply
post #21 of 24
11/12/09 at 1:45pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by rpggamer View Post

Question: If I was going to project directly on a wall and I don't want a paint on screen, just a gray wall, is there a kind of paint that would be better to use? I understand this is not ideal, but I don't want a screen or a taped up box on the wall. The room is going to be almost 100% dark when its used because its a basement. Thanks for the info!

I just went to Home Depot and boght Behr Silverscreen paint. I just painted the whole wall so I could adjust the screen size when desired. I think it was less than $20 and I did 2 coats as suggested.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=390146
Reply
Reply
post #22 of 24
11/12/09 at 1:54pm
I would suggest going over to the DIY screens forum for a much more in depth set of discussions on painted/DIY screens. There's a reason that there is an entire forum dedicated to the topic.

That said, I have a $100 piece of Wilsonart Designer White countertop laminate panel screwed to the basement wall and it works very well with my AE3000u PJ. Certainly a lot better than just projecting onto regular white/grey paint (can't comment on how it stacks up to the various special screen paint mixes as I've never tried them, but a lot of conversation has taken place about that topic on the DIY screen forum.)

Lastly, if you are also interested in movie usage, I would suggest getting a 1080p PJ over a 720p PJ. Overall, games upressed to 1080p suffer less than movies downressed to 720p imo.

-Suntan
Reply
Reply
post #23 of 24
11/12/09 at 2:56pm
Theres another factor that should be considered about the projector is the ability to fill in-between frames. Much like LCD/LED TV's 120 or 240hz refresh now, it helps a lot to provide a smoother image and possibly eliminating potential headaches. I have the AE2000 but do consider the AE4000 as the next step up and pj's with likewise features of importance.

(white wall works fine for me and is often too bright on normal mode)
Reply
Reply
post #24 of 24
11/13/09 at 12:16pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by SpeedyHTPC View Post

Theres another factor that should be considered about the projector is the ability to fill in-between frames. Much like LCD/LED TV's 120 or 240hz refresh now, it helps a lot to provide a smoother image and possibly eliminating potential headaches.

I agree, although it is definitely a contentious issue (there is a rather long and repetitive debate about FI in the over $3500 PJ forum.)

Basically, people that personally like the feature, like it. People that don't like the feature think it is spawned from the devil, believe that no display should have it and anyone in favor of it should be shot in the head (or something like that )

For blu rays that are 24p, I really enjoy the mode1 FI setting on the 3000u. I think the mode2 setting is a little overpowered and makes the images smear a bit. However, this is only for 24p material and is not used for games, fwiw.

-Suntan
Reply
Reply
New Posts  All Forums:Forum Nav:
  Return Home
  Back to Forum: PlayStation Area

AVS Top Picks

AVS › AVS Forum › Gaming & Content Streaming › Home Theater Gaming › PlayStation Area › What projector will best suit my PS3 home theater?