Questions About Home Theater Projector

Jack answers:

I don’t know of a source, but I’d recommend against trusting a video. It would be like trying to judge the fine details of an HDTV picture from an image on an inferior TV. In addition digital cameras have a limited dynamic range and do not accurately capture images from projectors, so why would a digicam?

Sorry, but you really need to see one live in a suitable showroom or home theatre. Surely if you are considering $5000+ it is worth actually looking at the image if possible.

That said, have you read reviews and compared to other 1080p projectors? The Sony sounds good, and I favour LCOS projectors, but personally I’d also consider the JVC DLA-HD1 / RS1 … It’s had rave reviews (see projectorcentral.com, projectorreview.com or Cine4home (link)) and actually cost less.

I’ll admit I’m leary of Sony … Previous models have had reputations for a good picture, but low brightness and very high cost lamps (The ‘Ruby’ even had to be changed professionally ($1000-$1500 … Ouch!!)).

Jack answers:

I think i know a place on the south shore that have these kind of projector,they have a web site www.visionhd.ca and they are located in Brossard.

Jack answers:

I still have a 480p pj that I use in the basement and I’m more than pleased with it. 480p is still E(nhanced) DTV which is a step above S(tandard) DTV so you’re still getting a picture upgrade.

I say go for it, especially if you have an HD box from your cable or sat company. That box will still upscale the 480p to 720p or 1080i which should make the picture even better. I’d be VERY surprised if you weren’t happy with the image from the 480p.

Jack answers:

All projectors have pros and cons, so there is no ‘best’ model for everyone. That said, in the $500-$600 range you have very limited choice (basically, used or reconditioned models) for good home theatre projectors (See link for recommended HT projectors — all above your price range — and elsewhere on the site for a buyers guide (2nd link) and projector reviews) since most at that price range are ‘business projectors’ with limited contrast ratio and video processing quality. You want a projector with at least 2000:1 contrast ratio. Brightness isn’t too critical (1000 lumens is enough) unless you plan to use it in a room with lights on/no window shades.

I’m reluctant to suggest specific projectors (since they may or may not be the best choice for you given your (unknown) specific needs), one worth considering, but at about $800 still slightly above your budget level, is the Benq W500 (See review and comparisons and sources at the 3rd link). A very desirable feature for a gamer is the $250 lamp replacement cost … An important factor given the (probable) high usage.

Hope this helps.

Jack answers:

If you only want occasionally, rental will be cheaper, but for ongoing/frequent use buying will be less expensive. The only advantage to renting is that you won’t have to worry about repair costs and you will be able to trade for a newer model as appropriate. As for lamp replacement … They typically last 2-3 years, so you would only benefit if you rent for several years (expensive!) … And that’s only if lamp failure/replacement is covered under the terms of the lease/rent (you would have to check with the leasing/renting company).

A couple of years ago I would have said consider renting since projectors were dropping quickly in price and simultaneously getting much better. But today they are much more stable in price and the technology has matured, so buying is a safer bet.

If you have doubts about whether a projector is “right” for you, try a short term rental … Otherwise buy.