Hello Folks.
I have been reading pro reviews on this site and projectorreviews.com for a few weeks now. Yes, I got bit by the HD bug as well.
Here is the deal...
*I live in a loft with lots of light, but I do have good blinds and willing to buy drapes if necessary for the best viewing experience.
*The living room is 17.5 ft(L) x 12.5ft (W) x 10.5ft (H) wall to wall.
*I have been eyeing the Mitsubishi HC1500 for a while now, because I don't quite want to commit to buy a full HD projector as I want to wait until the HD/Blue Ray battle gets decided. I will likely upgrade in 3-4 yrs.
*I do have a 5.1 channel surround sound system (Sony Receiver)+ 5 Polk Audio speakers for sound.
*I have a Toshiba upconverting DVD player.
*I am using coax digital cables for audio and planning on buying HDMI cables for video.(Currently using component video).
*I already have a 30inch Sharp Aquos HDTV, so that's reserved for watching TV, the projector will be used for gaming and movies.
*Projector will be mounted on the ceiling.
*Screen size I am aiming for is 100'' diagonal (widescreen 16:9), tensioned pull-down or motorized.
*I am located in southern ontario, canada.
Here it goes...
1/ I saw some HDMI cables on Best Buy for 200-400 dollar range, but I also saw 25 ft HDMI cables on amazon.com for 34.99. Is Best Buy ripping us off or is there a huge difference? Everywhere I read I keep seeing the importance of cables. What brand should I buy? Are there any specs I need to look out for? I know the HC1500 takes HDMI 1.2. I was looking for details but all I could find is this...
Product Features
- Silicon Image ATC Certitied
- Gold Plated Connectors
- Premium UL Listed Double Shielded Cable
- Super High Resolution
- Lifetime Warranty
Technical Details
Premium Shielded UL Listed cable
Thick 24awg wires for better signal transmission at long distance
Gold plated connectors for better conductivity
2/ I have been thinking of the Optoma HD72 and EP1691 as well. I read a lot of good stuff about Mitsubishi, so I am leaning towards the HC1500. I read that the Optomas are loud as well as only use a 4x color wheel and have an 8bit processor instead of the HC's 10bit, but they got a 2yr warranty and better contrast . None have a dynamic iris or lens shift. Any suggestions?
3/ Screens, screens, screens. I read it some place that I would likely have to go with a grey screen. Now I didn't quite get the part about the 'gain'. Could anyone suggest a good screen? I saw some suggestions on projectorreviews.com: Elite HC Gray, Da-Lite Da-Mat and Stewart Firehawk. Not sure how much these are and where could I get them. I don't really want to spend more than 250-300 bucks.
4/ I saw amazon.com selling the HC1500 for around 800.00 bucks. I know amazon is reputable, but I never dealt with them before. I am also not sure if I can return stuff if I it is damaged or I don't like it. Then again, where could I check out the performance of the projector before buying when none of the shops demo their products? I tried tigerdirect, best buy, future shop and they don't even display them for fear of theft.
Anyhow, your comments are appreciated.
Thanks much
\Kris
