Theater screen advice

[ablack311]

So, I am seriously going nuts trying to decide what screen to get. I've narrowed it down to the carada, but I"m interested in hearing some input. We have a 15x26 room the projector is about 13' back and we have the panny 900. The room is a dedicated theater and is 100% light controlled. So would I want the brilliant white or the regular cinema white? I am so lost. If someone has another brand that would be better i'm open for suggestions...I just don't want to spend more then about $800.

THANKS!!

 

[jaxvon]

First off, I don't own a Carada screen. However, from all the comments, reviews, and other stuff I have read on Carada screens, the general consensus is that the Brilliant White is the best route. Judging by your budget, I assume that you're looking at the Criterion Screens.

 

[RLA]

Hello,

Screen size should be based on viewing distance from the screen. The 900 has fairly good fill factor and the calculation should be 1.5-2.0 x the screen width (IE a viewing position 12ft back a 92-inch diag. screen would be a good choice). Brillant white would be a great choice also spend the extra money and get the Criterion series you will be glad you did.

 

[BMXTRIX]

The Carada Criterion series is of excellent build quality and the brilliant white screen looks excellent. While screen size should be based on viewing distance I would personally go with 100" to 106" diagonal at a 12-13 foot viewing distance. Especially with the AE900 since it lacks screen door issues that other projectors tend to have.

The added gain just gives the image a bit more 'pop' without taking away from almost anything else in the image. Ideal for the darker rooms and what I would consider ideal for 90%+ of all home theaters where a fixed screen can be used.

 

[ablack311]

Thanks everyone for your advice. I guess I'll slurge for the brilliant white then!!

 

[RLA]

personally go with 100" to 106" diagonal at a 12-13 foot viewing distance. Especially with the AE900 since it lacks

Keep in mind that the reason to use calculated screen sizes are not solely based on viewing SDE.

 

[ablack311]

Right now we have a sheet put up and have the screen about 120" it seems like it looks fine. Even sitting on the front row I don't see SDE and I find that I can see everything without having to move my head all over the place. I don't think I could convince hubby of a smaller size. He is of the opinion that biggest is best-est! LOL

 

[BMXTRIX]

Keep in mind that the reason to use calculated screen sizes are not solely based on viewing SDE.

Of course, I typically base screen size on the front end using THX recommended 1.5x screen width, but then also consider the room conditions, projector brightness, projector resolution, viewing material, etc.

The AE900 I have setup and used on my 106" diagonal .8 gain screen and have heard positive reports up to about 120" diagonal.

The personal preference thing is a biggie! If someone has brought it into their home and tried it at 120" (as is the case here) I wouldn't tell them they are wrong. It may be a bit bigger than typically recommended, but it is a fun size and really can give more of a theater feel for those enjoying it. The Carada only will help with that since the positive gain will give that larger image size more kick.