is CRT a better choice for me?

You won't find DVI on a CRT.


If your source devices have DVI-I (mixed analog and digital interface), you can use a DVI->HD15 connector adapter to connect the source. If its just DVI-D (digital only), you would need a box that converts from DVI to analog. This thread is currently discussing such options: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showt...hreadid=299132


You would not want to connect svideo directly to a CRT projector, as they don't contain an internal scaler. You'd rather want to use an outboard scaler to at least line double the svideo image first. (Most of us use HTPCs for this purpose.) So if that affects your budget, something to think about.


Many CRTs would fall within the 2k range. The smaller 7" sets from a reputable dealer often fall around that for a set that will last 5,000 - 10,000 hours of viewing. You might get an 8" set at that price range too, but that'd be a stretch.


What size screen are you considering? What is your throw distance that you have to work with? Does the room have total light control, so you can make it so dark you can't see your hand in front of your face?

Some things to consider:

1) Do you have patience for learning a new technology/tool, or are you looking for maximum plug-and-play ease-of-use?


2) Are you a real stickler for image quality, or are you looking for something that will project a decent image that's BIG?


3) Are you planning on using an HTPC in your set-up, or are you wanting to go directly from a DVD player/tuner into the projector?


4) Do you have a reasonable amount of light control, or will the projector have to compete with a lot of ambient light?


5) Do you have a couple of friends who would be willing to help you hoist 120 - 150 pounds overhead, or are you looking for something that fits easily on a bookshelf/mantle/etc.


6) Are you interested in seeing true high definition TV, or merely a cleaner version of broadcast/cable TV?


If you lean towards the first set of answers to each of these questions, then CRT is most likely a better fit for you. If you are willing to sacrifice a lot of picture quality for ease of set-up and installation, then the L300 won't steer you wrong (though you may wait for the Z2 to come out RSN...).


HTH!


Later,

Bill

I would agree with Ursa's questions.

and echo one of the other members.

" You ARE in the CRT forum and most of here ARE EXTREMEly partials to CRT projectors.


Also you can find a VERY decent used CRT PJ for 2k.

Do a search for Curt Palme and see what he might have in stock. Great guy to work with. That where I found mine.


Just one more thing. All of the Digital projectors being produce out there are all trying match the same thing. The PQ of a CRT image. You might want to think about that before making your decision.


Best of Luck. =0)

Quote:
I'll be honest with you. Since you want DVI and have no mention of picture quality, you should not consider CRT.


On the other hand, if picture quality is number one agenda then CRT should be highly considered. No DVI either as D stand for digital!