Viewing DVD's using a projector

[ibster]

After contemplating about getting the 43" Toshiba for a LONG time, I have decided that an alternative to this could be using a projector.

Does anyone have one ? How much do they cost ? Where can I get them from ? What sort of inputs does it need etc.

All info will be appreciated as always

thanks in advace

ibster

ps. Anyone selling a second hand one cheap ?

[RobDickinson]

Projectors are available from about £600 upwards (to £8-10000).

Theres two types - LCS & DLP ( I think the newer DLP's are better for HC).

They generaly have S-Video + VGA & some other connectors depending ( composite,component/rgb etc).

They use expensive bulbs ( £100-£600 each) that need replacing relativly often (evey 2000 hours etc - it does vary) - the picture goes yellow towards the end of the bulbs life.

More expensive ones have higher light output + better quality & theres also some with 16x9 LCD panels - ideal for most (anamophic) DVDs - most of the rest have 4:3 panels that will 'loose quality' with widescreen movies (like old 4:3 TV's).

They also have fans to keep them cool - soemtimes you can hear them.

Dont let me put you off though - they can look great and give a huge picture have a look at reviews on www.homecinemachoice.com

also consider CRT projectors ( new from £4k - recon from ???) - tend to be better but often need proffesional installs & arnt portable.

[Welshlad]

I've not got the time to give a detailed reply at the moment (will do so later though if I can), but I'd just say I have a 37" TV in the Living room, and an LCD projector giving me about a 95-100" picture, and to say I cannot bare to watch a film on the TV now is testament to the quality of a movie via a projector! Best move you'll ever make if you watch a large volume of movies! http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/images/icons/icon14.gif

[APPRIA40WR]

I don't think a projector can *ever* replace a standalone TV.

For one most projector bulbs cost £400-£600 every 1000-3000hrs so it's a bit expensive to watch Chronicnation Street on a 7 foot screen.

Rear projection TV (RPTVs) also need their (expensives) tubes replacing too and that's why I eventually went for the Toshiba 37" CRT set. Best of all worlds and you can buy a projector for special occasions (porno films for example).

[Welshlad]

Originally posted by APPRIA40WR
I don't think a projector can *ever* replace a standalone TV.

Absolutely not, but if you have both, I can't see anyone ever watching a film on the TV :)

[ibster]

thanks for the replies guys,

i think if i did by the projector, then special occasions would become quite common :-)