Retractable acoustic gray tab tension ceiling mounted screen

brandonmack said:

For those features, under $4K is going to be tough. You probably don't need acoustic, unless your speakers have to be behind the screen (acoustic tab-tension screens are fairly uncommon, though you can get them). If you do get something acoustic, a black backing would probably be needed (I think this is one of the reasons a lot of companies don't want to do acoustic electric screens). With ambient light, you definitely want a gray or high-contrast material, or your picture will appear washed-out.

Hanging a screen in front of a fireplace is probably okay, but if you extend the screen with a fire going, or while it's still hot, you will damage the screen. To avoid accidents, I don't recommend putting it anywhere near a heat source.

If you decide you can do the $4k screens after all, I'd go with Severtson. For lower cost, I do usually like Silver Ticket better, but as you noticed, their gray electrics currently appear to be sold out, plus their tab-tensions only come in white. You could contact them and see if they have any other options, though. Sometimes they'll have something that might work for you.

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Just Steve said:

Thanks for the feedback!

It is necessary to have the speakers behind the screen, unfortunately. Yes, we do not plan on having the screen down while the fireplace is going, this is a big reason why a retractable one is necessary.

I can't seem to find any information about not using acoustically transparent screens with a speaker behind it. Does it make that much of a difference? It seems like I will end up having to sacrifice a feature to get a screen like the acoustic or gray screen. Any experience to which of these aren't as vital?

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Craig Peer said:

You don't want to do that - your sound will be compromised. Also, there aren't that many AT materials that are also ambient light rejecting.

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Just Steve said:

Thanks, but I'm not seeing a solution. If spending over $4k is the only solution I think I'll have to skip AT

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Just Steve said:

Hi all, home theater novice here. I'm having trouble finding the right screen. I will immediately be using an Optoma HD20 (standard throw, 1700 lumens, 1080) but will likely be updating it to a newer project in the near future like the BenQ TK700STi (4k, 3k lumens).

Can I find a screen that can be better suited for the newer one but still work well with the older one?

Semi-flexible requirements:
Rectractable - preferably motorized
Acoustic - I am reading both that this strongly preferred and not worth it. We have a center channel on a fireplace awning (along with bookshelf speakers to the sides). We plan on sitting roughly 10-15 ft away from the screen at roughly 0-45 degree angles.
Better suited for ambient light - This will be in the living room and not a dedicated theater room. I am reading that gray and lower gain may be preferred.
120"
16:9
tab tension - I am reading this is preferred for reliability to avoid any wrinkles.
Ceiling mounted (hanging)
Would some sort of black back drop be helpful? Is that a thing? (Especially with the above requirements) This won't be against a wall, but in front of the fireplace with an awning and items above that as well.

I have yet to find a site that can easily filter the above. I end up clicking through only to find something is missing. I was recommended silver ticket but they seem to be out of stock. I realize this may be a lot of features so I may have to end up paying more, but I don't think the wife could accept a $4k screen.

I am open to any ideas or knowledge and help is greatly appreciated. If any of these sound unrealistic please let me know, thanks!

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craig john's theater

Updated on 8-13-2022 to show the current state of the theater: In 2009, I upgraded my speaker system with a full set of Triad speakers. The fronts are Platinum LCR's with a Platinum CC: The deep red burgundy drapes in this pic were hand-made by my wife. I bought these speakers "used" and...

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