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Re: The future of RPMs ** From My Perspective **
Good points, Adam. I didn't mean to say that what we saw at CEDIA this year sounds the death knell for RPM (although in reading over my initial comments I can understand that some might read it that way.) What I meant to say was that when Plasma prices were high and LCD sizes were more limited, it was not economical to consider a truly "flat" screen display for the heart of a Home Theater and the only way to get something over 50" was via a Rear Projector Monitor if front projection didn't appeal to a consumer.
With the cost of excellent front projectors dropping, all of a sudden FP Home Theater is within the reach of a lot more people (even allowing for the screen and any other assistance in setting things up.) And in those cases where a Front Projector will never be a viable option (due to light and or space considerations) a BIG picture doesn't have to be an RPM since flat panels have plummeted in price.
But it still CAN be an option for those who have the space of an RPM. In fact, for people who don't worry about the size and the weight of CRTs some of the Sony HD CRTs still have the best bang for the buck and a termendous picture. If you have a handy corner and don't plan on moving the set around, CRTs are not dead yet either. Unfortunately, you are limited to 40" or under (probably less since I haven't seen a 40" CRT for some time now) so the HT experience is out of the question unless you sit close and the room is small.
There are still some good reasons for some people to buy RPMs. But considering the advance of the other display technologies it might no longer be the most viable option for many.
And, as we say, your mileage may vary.
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