Needed: Inexpensive Projector

[jaxvon]

I plan on integrating a projector into my new system. The problem is, I'm not exactly flush with cash. So, I want to know of a good projector that can be had on the cheap. I'm not against getting a used one if it's a good option. Where should I be looking, and at what brands and specs?

[Ragtop]

I love my Infocus 4805. You can buy it straight from the Infocus site for just under a $1000. Probably find it cheaper with some digging.

Check out this site http://www.projectorcentral.com/ and particularly this article http://www.projectorcentral.com/480p_projectors.htm

[dimple_guy0619]

try optoma h31, this is a very good ht projector see the review. thanks

[brian32672]

What size screen did you have in mind. A 4:3 format or 16:9. Do you watch a lot of movies, or is it just for occasions, will you be using it for computer text or a gaming console, whats your budget, where will it be set up, what kind of connections do you have - BNC - component RGB - HDMI - DVI - SVideo - Composite(is a no-no) , etc.. A few more details could really narrow it down...

[jaxvon]

I'll be using it for movies and gaming. I planned on getting a 16:9 screen, though it's going to be under 100". Budget is inexpensive as I can go, without buying total crap. For inputs I'll be using component and VGA.

[Doug917]

Jaxvon,

I second the Infocus Screenplay 4805. I still have to pinch myself all the time to make sure I am not dreaming and I actually got a front projector and screen for less than my 53" RPTV and it looks better at almost twice the size too. The colors this projector produces are amazing. The only thing you'd need to worry about at this price point is light control. If you have a fairly dark room, this projectors really shines. The deinterlacing in this projector is also top notch. I have compared it to that of the Denon 1910 and it blows the Denon away. I know I have seen it new as cheap as $800.

[brian32672]

Well, that being said. I am not a fan of all in one units. But the DV10 Optoma has superb specs. It has a built in dvd player, but does not need to be used since it still has the connections you have. It has a 4000:1 contrast ratio, a super quiet 27 db, MSRP of 1400. so probably could be had for about 900 or less, its 16:9 format, 1000 lumens, Dark Chip 2 technology, up to 3000 hour bulb, short focus lense, etc...

If you do not like this then, there are other recomendations I can give.

[brian32672]

Also I would go here and read all of the article, but I like the area of other key factors....
http://www.projectorcentral.com/buyers_guide.htm

[jaxvon]

Thanks for all the help. The 4805 seems to be the best deal right now. It looks like it should do everything I need.

[Catdaddy]

As far as screens go, you can buy a decent sized pull down Da-lite screen on ebay around $300 and if you are space/throw limited, or you really want to get a screen now(!), you can buy a 70 or 80 Apollo tripod screen from Office Max for $150 to $200.

[jaxvon]

I'll look into that, thanks. Since I'm not getting the projector yet (buying the audio stuff first), I'm not sure what the budget is like. Budget permitting, I'l like to get a Carada Criterion. All of the stuff I'm buying will move with me when I get my apartment or house next year, so I'm trying to avoid the quick fix gear and get something that will last.

[brian32672]

As far as screens go, you can buy a decent sized pull down Da-lite screen on ebay around $300 and if you are space/throw limited, or you really want to get a screen now(!), you can buy a 70 or 80 Apollo tripod screen from Office Max for $150 to $200.

They are much cheaper than that. A DaLite 16:9 screen Glass Bead or Matte White 91" diagonal = 45" x 80" Brand New And includes Shipping is $160.70 From HollyJanServices. And I used them for one of my screens (96" DaLite). Super fast shipping and well boxed straight from DaLite Factory.

They sell on eBay and have smaller sizes that are cheaper, but all are DaLites.
They also have the High Contrast, Glass Bead, Matte White, Video Spectra, etc....

You may want to read up on screen gain first though.... If you haven't already.

Anyway here is the 91"

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=48655&item=5701941309&rd=1

I believe some of the fixed screens might be a tad cheaper. Also you could get a 80 X 80 non fixed for that price and make it into any shape you would want (format)