Please help me pick a projector (1 Viewer)

I was going to get a new rear projection TV, and I’ve decided to go with a front projector instead. I'm going to use it at home, mostly for movies, and some DTV in a 16 x 20 room. In doing my homework, based on what I've read, I need at least 1000 lumens, and I would like 1024 x768. Is DLP really an appreciably better technology in appearance? I’ve been looking at refurbished In Focus LP130 and LP350’s What do you think?

Some basic Q's:

- what's your budget or preferred price range? does this include the screen cost?

- what size image do you desire?

- what will the throw distance be?

- what degree of control do you have in this room over ambient light?

- you mention the unit will be mostly for movies, so why the preference for 1024x768 (this is 4x3, not 16x9)?

Michael,

- I hope to spend around 2,000 or less for the projector, exclusive of screen cost
- Approx. 6 x 8
- With ceiling mount approx 16 feet
- Limited control over ambient light, given the fact of a rental home with south facing wall for projection. My thoughts include using drapes behind screen, anticipated use mostly at night.
- I thought that the 1024 x 768 would provide greater image clarity, no?
- By the way, what should I consider for a screen given what I’m working with?
Thanks

Charles:

Like Neil pointed out in his thread this is a nice discussion going on in the thread concerning the three leading projectors in the sub $2,000 range.

Parker