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FP screen , +$$$ = better pic - fact or fiction?

About to venture into my first front projection system. Most likely will be Sony VPL-VW60 (1080P). Will use approx. 100" fixed mount screen - in a basement room where controlling light is not an issue. Will use for movies and sporting events. Viewing distance is 14-18'.

Is there really a significant picture quality difference when going from paint-on screen, to $1,000. screen to $3,000.+ screen? With the cost of the Sony unit, WAF budget dictates a sub-$1,200 screen. Will that be a mistake? Open to suggestions/recommendations ...
northwoods_maine
mrjstark
1,112 posts
 
SONY is good but check out new Optoma HD-80 1080p for under 3G. You can get a good screen in your budget and spend $400 on pro. calibration which will correct any color inperfections and brightness commpensation. It will give you a better bang for your money and a clouse to reference picture quality.
sogood51
2,157 posts
 
I would always buy the projector first, and then make any final screen decisions later.

Just paint the wall white (maybe it's already white?)...and shoot the picture on that while playing around with screen size, projector settings...ect. (cost?...around $20)

After a few movies you will have a clear idea on the direction you want to take regarding screens.

Dave
bdgregory
1,708 posts
 
$1000 for a paint on screen? I honestly didn't think it possible to do that.

I built my own screen using screen fabric I purchased on ebay for ~$30. The lumber from home depot cost ~$15. I've been using it for 3 years now and have not been inclined to upgrade yet. I'm using a 720p projector though (see my system). My suggestion is go cheap now, worry about upgrade when you become dissatisfied, know what you want, and have the cash to buy it.
chadnliz
3,736 posts
 
In general companies suggest 15-30% of Projector cost for screen budget, I am veiwing mine on plain old flat white wall till I get my screen mi=unted and it looks darn good.
I can share my impression of the screen by Sunday when it is installed......but its way budget....84in wide format for less then $200, but I am poor so its what I could afford.
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