Best projector for my buck (1 Viewer)

[Mike Boniferro]

Hello everyone. I was hoping that I could throw out a few model #'s and the best prices I am able to get on them, and get some feedback on which way I should go.
I'm looking for a decent (doesn't need to be fantastic) projector for an HT that I am going to build in my new house.

We will be sitting about 12 feet + from the screen. The max screen size I am thinking is about 96". Will mostly be watching progressive scan DVD's with it, but some HD programs and video games. (so mostly 16x9)

Here are some models:

Infocus 4805 - $1899 CDN

Panasonic AE700 - $2699 CDN

BenQ PE5120 - $1999 CDN with screen

Infocus X2 - $899 CDN

Sany Z3 - $2679

BenQ PB6200 - $1599

InFocus LP540 - $1650

For those price points, what's my best bet and why? I am trying to spend as little as possible for right now (will definately be open to upgrading later) as there are tons of expenses coming up.

Thanks a lot!

 

[Citizen87645]

Definitely not the X2. It's geared for data projection, not video. If you can get your hands on a used X1 or 4800 that would be better.

For new, I'd lean towards the 4805, but you probably will be happy with the Panasonic, Sanyo or BenQ too, though also paying more.

 

[Travis_R]

you can get the ae700 right now for under 2000 with a rebate, thats gonna be your best bang for you buck of all those PJ's listed

 

[Jim Mcc]

Mike, I agree with the 4805, or the X1 if you can find one. The last time I checked Google.com there were numerous sites selling the X1. I have the X1 and I love it. I run it in 16:9 mode with a 16:9 screen. By the way, 12' is too close to sit for a 96" screen(unless it's a HD projector). If you buy a 480p projector(like the 4805) you need to sit back 2X screen width(72" wide screen at 12').

 

[Holadem]

This isn't as hard and fast a rule as yer making it sound, is it?!

--
H

 

[Citizen87645]

I think the majority of people find they prefer sitting at 2X, but those who don't mind seeing pixel structure and want a bigger experience sit closer. If a person wants to sit at 1.5X and doesn't want to see pixel structure then odds are he'll prefer a 720p projector.

 

[Travis_R]

you want to be 2x back with the 4805, ive seen one in action, the pic is incredible for the price dont get me wrong, but you do want to be 2x back, the closer you get the more the picture quality starts to fade

 

[Mike Boniferro]

Yep that's what I was counting on. I said 96" max on the screen because the 720p Panny is still on the list.
Is this rebate for the ae700 a strictly US thing? I haven't seen anything like that from Panasonic Canada.

Does anyone know how the Infocus rebate works for Canadian customers? can we still get the free screen? This is one projector that seems to be a LOT less expensive in the US than up north....

 

[drobbins]

Mike,
Check out my theater here: Basement Theater My room is 14' deep and I have a 91" screen. The picture with the 4805 is awesome.

 

[Ralph B]

tigerdirect recently had the original X1 for $599 refurbed.