Projector or Monitor?

[bhjpls]

Our current projector is fading the fast - the graphics are horrible. We replaced the bulb about 6 months ago, but it still is looking bad. The screen is about 75 feet from the projector and is 10' in width. Are we better off replacing the screen with a flat screen monitor (if so, what size/type), or should we replace the projector and bite the bullet on the lens for that throw length? Apparently the current lens is only for the current projector and is obsolete. I'd like to keep the budget around $5000.

Thanks for any input.

[Paris MkVI]

I am guessing there's no way to move the projector closer? That is one very long throw. Based on this information, and your budget, I would look at reducing your throw distance and then perhaps looking at new projector(s).

You might want to measure ambient light at the screen, determine square footage of the screen area, then work backwards to a projector with output and stock lens that is a good match. Just a thought. Folks with greater specialty knowledge will chime in , I am sure.

A flat screen system in the same size is going to cost you 10-15 times your budget, I think.

[tdangelo]

If looking for a “lower” cost solution which does not use projection, you might consider making a video wall out of plasma screens. Some Panasonic series plasmas have the feature built into the screen to divide up the image across the screens.
For example a 3x3 video wall comprised of nine Panasonic 42” plasmas will net a 10’ wide by 6’ high image. Total cost should be around $6,500.00. There will of course be mullion seperating the image, but short of a Christie Micro Tile or similar most screens will have mullion.

A 2x2 video wall comprised of four Panasonic 65” plasmas will also net a 10’ wide by 6’ high image. Total cost should be around $16,800.00. There will be less mullion seperating the image, but the mullion will fall dead center which is usually considered worse than having it fall at 1/3rds.

As a 12K projector costs about $25,000 - $82,000. Of course, having the projector closer than 75’ away from a 10’screen makes more sense …. But if you must have the projector 75’ away I would be looking at 10K or 12K projectors and serious lenses.

[sempei13]

Smaller size (up to 60" diagonal or so), go with a plasma or LCD. Larger sizes should use projectors unless it's outside (or you have a HUGE area like they do at Willow Creek) then, you can use LED walls.

Paul

[Vinnyw]

If the picture quality has diminished, it may be that you have dust accumulation in the projector. This happens as it seems that no-one (including me) ever remembers to change the filter. If the projector used to give an acceptable image - and nothing in your space has changed - it might be worthwhile finding a local shop that services projectors and have them look at it. Worst case, if you have to replace the projector, see if you can find a new projector that uses the same zoom lens that you already have; that would save you that expense at least.

Changing the throw distance can be a double-edged sword... zoom lenses usually have lower f-stops and let more light through giving you more light for a given projector rating. The down side is that some zoom lenses are pricey and not every projector can be purchased without the standard lens...it is a balance, for sure. If you have for example, a 3,500 lumen projector with your current throw, a new, identically rated projector at a shorter throw using the standard lens, might not have as bright of an image...

I hope that helps.

Vinny

[rcourtney]

I agree with Vinnyw about a shop servicing your projector.

Optics inside have special coatings for infrared (so the working
parts don't burn up).