[dcdtn]

I need to replace my X1, as it bit the dust last night. I am thinking 720p mainly due to screen size and viewing distance (100" at 13'), plus I am only using it to view DVDs right now.


Some unique requirements I have:

1. Component Inputs - since I have component cabling already wired and the component-to-VGA adapter never worked right on my X1. All the 720p models I have looked at so far do not have component inputs.
2. 13.5 ft Throw at Present Ceiling Mount - needs to work for present 100" (92" at 16:9) screen with room to grow to a larger screen.
3. Mount Availability at PerfectMounts.com - I want to re-use my present ceiling mount and just replace the part that attaches to the projector. While PerfectMounts will make a custom mount free of charge, I would prefer to not go through the trouble of measurements, center-of-gravity locating, etc. Not to mention the additional waiting. But I will as a last resort.
4. Budget - I am thinking $700 - $1200 but would like to keep low as possible since afterall I am currently not even using HD!

I appreciate any help you can provide. This site was very helpful in 2004 when I purchased my X1.


On edit: I should probably mention that the projector is used in a basement room where ambient light is not a concern.

 

[orion456]

You can buy a use X1 off ebay for around $200 and get a new lamp for $200.


Or you can pick up a used infocus 4805 for about $300 off ebay.


Or ebay has a used Optoma h78dc3 with a new bulb and 3 month warranty for $750. The h78dc3 was a $5000 720p projector a few years ago, and has an amazing picture quality.


All of those are inexpensive and satisfy your criteria.

 

[dcdtn]

Yeah, I thought real hard about buying a used one off Ebay but in the end decided I am a little uncomfortable with that. I would hate to deal with shipping damage to a used one.


Anyway, I had about decided on a Panasonic PT-AX200U, but then I got to reading threads about people having numerous problems with those.


I am also looking at the Mitsubishi HC3800... only problem with it is that it could project about 1" wider than my screen at minimum zoom (probably not a big deal). Also for it I would have to do measurements for a custom mount or wait until one becomes available. It is also a little beyond the $1200 limit I set for myself. Decisions, decisions...

 

[mnnc]



Quote:
Originally Posted by dcdtn /forum/post/18260242


Yeah, I thought real hard about buying a used one off Ebay but in the end decided I am a little uncomfortable with that. I would hate to deal with shipping damage to a used one.


Anyway, I had about decided on a Panasonic PT-AX200U, but then I got to reading threads about people having numerous problems with those.


I am also looking at the Mitsubishi HC3800... only problem with it is that it could project about 1" wider than my screen at minimum zoom (probably not a big deal). Also for it I would have to do measurements for a custom mount or wait until one becomes available. It is also a little beyond the $1200 limit I set for myself. Decisions, decisions...

Many issues/problems with the Mitz...I considered strongly before getting reports concerning them. Ended up getting Epson. Could not be happier unless I won the lottery. There is the Opto 20 option...well within your budget and 1080p. Another would be the Benq W1000 1080p model. If you go with 720p you should not have to spend more than half your intended budget...new. Look around. You will sacrifice some bells and whistles but the pic quality will be well worth it. Since you are willing to spend 12 hundred you should strongly consider 1080p...bluray or sdvd upconverted thru a good player will amaze you. Good luck and enjoy your quest.

 

[dcdtn]



Quote:
Originally Posted by mnnc /forum/post/18260519


Many issues/problems with the Mitz...I considered strongly before getting reports concerning them. Ended up getting Epson. Could not be happier unless I won the lottery. There is the Opto 20 option...well within your budget and 1080p. Another would be the Benq W1000 1080p model. If you go with 720p you should not have to spend more than half your intended budget...new. Look around. You will sacrifice some bells and whistles but the pic quality will be well worth it. Since you are willing to spend 12 hundred you should strongly consider 1080p...bluray or sdvd upconverted thru a good player will amaze you. Good luck and enjoy your quest.

I looked into the Opto 20HD and Benq W1000, but both would overthrow my screen requiring me to get a bigger one (which I may do anyway, some day). Also, after doing a little more research, I have decided that lens-shifting is a must have for me.


So right now this leaves me with the Panny AX200 or the Epson 8100. Yes, there is a big price gap there. I think I am going to flip a coin and order one tomorrow.