Distances ... ?So

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Answers are full of variables. For example pixel structure is not as evident with LCOS or DLP as it is with LCD. Each tech is also subject to various artifacts that you may or may not notice - Vertical Banding for example. Panel rez and how a PJ deals with SDE are other points to consider - the Panasonic AE700 (Smoothscreen) vs. the Infocus 4805 might serve as examples here.


A good rule of thumb is 1.5 screen width.
This site is a good source for making calculations. Be aware these are not hard and fast rules - the THX is a minimum recommendation for example.


I would say how comfortable *you* feel is the prime consideration - a 1:1 ratio is not so unusual as some are all too willing to imply. As PQ quality advances I believe people *will* be sitting closer than we do now - many are quite comfortable with OMNIMAX because the PQ is there.


I've a small room setup as well. My main seating is at about 1.5 with an AE700 projecting a 1.85 image with bars on either side of the image.. I project for constant height so with 2.35 movies I zoom to fill my full screen which puts me at about 1.2 or so. Because of zooming and lower panel usage the image is dimmer and artifacts are more noticeable. Fortunately I can suspend my critical faculties (which I have btw since PQ is one aspect of my day job) and get immersed in the movie. Soon I hope to add an anamorphic lens to my setup which should help mitigate some of this qaulity loss by allowing me to use the PJ differently.


I'm sure this is much more than info than you were seeking, but I wanted to show that there are ways to help your picture quality - perhaps a grey screen might be of benefit if you've the lamp power.


I'd recommend you follow your instincts.


ted

wow thanks ted


very informative


thank you




(fwiw -i just measured again with my wife - from my head to screen it is 90 inches- screen diagonal is roughly 80 depending on zoom - I stuck tape on the doors at each corner of the screen the other night when i had the PJ )




one more thing -

i was just at Michaels crafts store - found a sweet 48 x 60 inch art canvas -what do you guys think of canvas vs pull down screen ?

ok, i re read your message - rule of thumb is1.5 screen WIDTH


not



1.5 screen Diag



cool then


It'll be 60 inch wide screen, 90 inches seating distance....


so maybe i can go with the 4805 after all...

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See it first.

Most of what I've read suggests that this is a bit close for the 4805 - 2x the width seems to be the going consensus - SDE concerns.

Then again whatever is comfortable for you.


You could always rearrange the furniture.


ted

I own the 4805, and I've found I have to sit 2.5x the screen width for what I consider the best pq.


My wife sits ~1.8x and thinks it is perfect.


At 60" width, the consensus says 120" seating distance. 90" is cutting it close. Get one from a place with a good return policy so you can take it back if doesn't work.


You will need an ND2 filter for sure at that distance. Not only will it help with brightness headaches sitting so close, it will cut down on SDE. Go to a local camera store and ask for an ND2 filter for a 62mm lens. They are only about $35.


For the 4805, this is a big help!