Choices Choices Choices!!!!

[HiDef4Life]

Okay, it's time to build that room that I've always wanted. But first things first right? What do I want to get for the basics?

I ordered the Panasonic PT-AE2000U to give it a run. The alternative was a Sony Diamond (VW60).

Setting the projector aside though... what about the screen? Good Lord, the things you have to choose!? So... let's break it down. I intend to use this setup probably in the evening - for movie watching (not so much for TV watching); will have Blu Ray setup (and if I opt to get the XBox, then will have HD-DVD option); and although standard def DVDs will still be around for a while - I will probably have to keep that as an option for a media format.

So here's the question - I'm going to fork out the dough for a Stewart screen (motorized) and use the Firehawk SST material; with a 110" diag. But should I go for the 16:9 ratio (1.78:1 I think is what Stewart would be making) or go for the 2.35:1 which the Panasonic can support with the anamorphic vertical stretch mode and lens? Or something in between?

Why ask? I'm thinking the projector will change more frequently than the screen - so I don't want to fork out dough on a screen that will end up being old news (i.e. what good is getting a 1080p player when your TV only supports 480p?); a lot of Blu ray comes in 2.4:1 format; some in between...

Help.

btw - hello - first timer on the forums

 

[The Dukester]

Lots of question, lots of answers, lots for you to think over. For one, how likely are you to buy the 2.35 lens? If not now, when? If you aren't going to do it soon, I would probably buy a less expensive 16.9 screen that you can sell later when you want to step up to Cinescope. If you are prone to do it soon, then get the wide screen now.
Keep in mind that when you change from 2.35 back to 16.9 you have to move the lens out of the way and you will have left over screen on the sides. You could mask with drapes, etc if you had a fixed screen, but not so easy with a motorized one. It can be done, just not as easily.
So, it's really a matter of preference, money you want to spend now or later, and how much you want to be inconvenienced each time you change aspects. 2.35 is most inpressive, though!
Nice choice of pj!

Welcome to the forum!