I've recently upgraded the home theater system with a Denon AVR-4308 and a Samsung Blu-Ray player. This receiver supports two hdmi-outs from zone 1, and component video out for zone 2. I've run both hdmi and component cables out to the end of a built-in counter out on the patio, where I could hook up projector to show movies at night. I plan on using a portable screen, which will be stored inside with the projector when not in use. The house is about 18' from the counter where the projector will sit, so I am thinking the screen will be about 16'-17' from the projector.
I know very little about projectors, and was hoping to get some tips. Since I'll have a Blu-Ray player, I was thinking 1080p is the way to go. I assume since I'll be showing outdoors, getting a bright projector is important (what is considered good brightness for outdoor viewing at night - would 1,800 AL be sufficient?). Given the trade-off between brightness and contrast ratio, should I be looking for a brighter unit, or one with higher contrast ratio? Given the distance between the screen and projector, what throw ratio should I be looking for.
BenQ looks like they have a new unit coming out soon (the W-1000), which is 1080p, 1,800 AL, and a 2,700:1 contrast ratio, for about $1k - looks like a good deal. Would this be a good value for what I am planning on doing?
Also, I know even less about screens. What should I be looking for in a screen? If I'm going to be spending about $1k-$2k on a projector, how much should I plan on spending on a screen? What screen surface should I be looking for, and gain, again to optomize for outdoor use at night.
Any advice you can give (or is there a link to a good buying guide that you would recommend) would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
