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This past weekend I did some auditioning of DLP home theater systems at several high end audio shops. I was very impressed with the overall experience, but was shocked at the prices. $10,000 and up for the DLP processor from Runco or Dwin(?). $4,000 or more for a Stewart Film screen. $3,000 for a box to recess the DLP in the ceiling when it is not being used. I got the distinct impression that mfgr's and high end dealers are gouging the public with this stuff.Here are my questions.
1. the high DLPs from the above mfgr's that much better than the more reasonably priced products from the Japanese consumer companies like Panasonic, NEC, etc. In my area, the local audio dealers all seem to carry high end DLP and not the more reasonably priced products. Any comparisons between the DLPs in the two price ranges would be appreciated.
2. Screens... is there anything magical about a Stewart screen? For the money, there ought to be. I can get a high quality 8'x6' pull-down manual screen from the local camera shop for $400. Is there any difference between the two.
Thanks to all those who respond.
Follow Ups:
go to the avsforums and ask the projector cheapskates, err, DIYers there. :-) The boutique stuff is good, really good, but it sounds like for $$/performance, you would likely be happier with a more DIY approach.
Hello,I doubt anyone can answer these questions directly because there are just too many variables that enter into the decision making process. The things that affect your buying decision will depend on the specifics of your particular application. I can offer my opinion in the hope that you'll find it helpful.
With regard to questions #1, it seems that consensus is that the "consumer" electronics manufacturers are making products that are every bit as good or better than the "boutique" brands you mention. However, they may require more effort in terms of calibration/setup in order to maximize their potential. If you are a DIY kind of person, then this might actually be appealing to you. There are 2 good places you can read comparisons between projectors that I'm aware of:
avsforum.com and projectorcentral.com
There are probably more, but you could start there.
With regard to question #2, screen costs vary wildly because sometimes folks are discussing the cost of the raw material itself, and sometimes they are discussing the cost of a complete ready to install screen "system" that includes added features such as automated masking. Again, depending on the level of DIY interest you have, you can assemble a screen using some of the best materials for probably a few hundred dollars. There are folks who spend mega-bucks for fully automated Stewart screens and there are those who are projecting onto a bed sheet. It all comes down to what you want, what you are happy with, and what you are willing to pay. You can call the folks at AVS Forum for screen material pricing. With the exception of the Stewart screens, most of the vinyl raw materials for screens fall into the $4-$7/ square foot range. Stewart does make some products that might be the best for a given specific situation (projector/light environment/personal taste), but every screen material has its advantages and disadvantages that have to be considered for the specific installation.
I'm currently building a HT in my basement so I've been contemplating the same questions you have. I'm a DIY'er, so I'll be buying screen raw material and making my own frame/masking setup. I won't be buying a "boutique" projector either. However, I fully expect I'll have a setup that will be the equal (or better) of anything I've seen in any HT store.
Good Luck!
Rick
I can help you with any advice you may need.Our company consults and installs projectors for rooms such as yours.
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