Will a front projector work in my room? (1 Viewer)

[Nick P]

I'm considering upgrading my 'old' 56" non-HDMI 1080i/720p RPTV with a 1080p front projector but have some concerns with my room dimensions namely low ceiling height. Here is a sketch of my room drawn to scale (click thumb nail for a larger view).





Before I get too deep in research I want to make sure my room can even support a projector. I'm guessing that the throw distance will require the projector to be mounted on the lowest part of the ceiling that runs the width of the room. Will a projector's lense shift be enough to compensate for such a low mounting position? Also, I do have complete light control in my theater room.

I'm not completey sold on front projection at this point but the idea of a much larger screen is very tempting. I've yet to find a store with a properly set-up projector viewing room for demonstrations. They all have had too much light present. I'm always impressed though with Blu Ray on the larger DLP RPTVs such as the 73" Mitsubishi and new 67" Samsung and I'm worried that a projector such as the Epson 1080 UB won't look quite as good.

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

 

[GeorgeAB]

You'll need vertical lens shift, which most digital projectors provide. The room should be fine for front projection. Your front row's viewing distance will accommodate a screen width between just over 6' wide to almost 7.5' wide, depending on visual acuity, quality of the 1080P projector and personal preference. You can't get that large of a screen in any other format without spending huge money.

Best regards and beautiful pictures,
G. Alan Brown, President
CinemaQuest, Inc.

"Advancing the art and science of electronic imaging"

 

[Nick P]

Thanks for the reply George! The odd mounting location was a concern so it's good to know it shouldn't be a problem. I have been eyeing the Epson 1080 UB. Seems to be a great projector for the price. Also looking at Carada's 96" 2.35:1 screen. It would be used exclusively for movies so I thought 2.35:1 might be the best choice.

Anyone have any thoughts on my dilemma of 1080p FP vs. 1080p DLP RPTV? One half of me knows I would love the large fixed screen and the other half thinks I'd be happier with the cyrstal clear image of the DLP RPTV.