Projector for Everyday Use

[kinda]

Hello,

I've read quite a bit but am still not sure on this question, and wanted to get people's opinions.

My 36" Hitachi Natura is playing up with an unstable picture, and sometimes going into / refusing to come out of standby. It's had similar problems previously, under guarantee, which seemed to take a lot of effort to resolve. I'm anticipating it won't be cost-effective to fix it.

As I understand it I may be underwhelmed by an LCD or Plasma in terms of colour and contrast after having a good CRT. I'm also not 100% on what size I'd need, given the different distances people would be to it, and then if I move house it may well be too small.

So I'm wondering could I just use a projector instead? It'd be more flexible size-wise, and as far as I'm aware they give the best picture for films. However, though I've read reviews, I'm not sure if projectors can now be used in a normally lit room, or if there are any other issues in using one for casual viewing?

Any opinions or experiences people have would be much appreciated.

 

[matengawhat]

if you get a projector you need at least two things - something to create the images ie sky/freeview box and something to make the sound av receiver/stereo amp and speakers

if you have none of these expensice inital outlay - also the pictures get better the darker the room

 

[kinda]

Thanks for this,

I've already got an amplifier, surround speakers, and relevant sources.

My question really is whether projectors can now work well in a room of average brightness, and if there are any other issues with using a projector every day, (I accept the cost of bulbs and will factor that in if I pursue this idea). I accept that to get the best picture I'll need to dim the room

 

[Clare Newsome]

This blog I wrote late last year may be useful....

 

[kinda]

Thanks, that was very helpful. I've never been on the blog section.

I'd read that 2300 - 4000 lumens projectors were needed, but It sounds like a high gain screen is the key in terms of watching under brighter conditions. The bulb consumption / price also seems better than I expected.

Thanks again.

 

[matengawhat]

i use my projector a lot but normally only when sitting down for a serious session - if just want to catch a tv prog usually kick on the tv

i have blinds on every window that still let a little light in - is a compromise but can be watched middle of the day however as said it gets far better the darker it gets and picture looks better, better blacks better colou sharper image.

you will never look back - once you have watched a movie at home on the big screen or put a couple of hours in on the 360 you will be hooked!