I’m looking to set up a projector and screen, but I was wondering if the room was too small for it. Its about 14 to 15 feet from where the screen will be to the wall opposite the screen with cathedral ceilings (If that makes a difference) I have a couch along the opposite wall as well as a couch to the left of the screen (as you’re looking at it) starting at the wall where the screen is and extending 5 to 7 feet out. The screen may be 106 inches. 97 across and 58 vertical…
Tags: couch/chair, from, Projector, screen, Should
First thing is to determine what is your primary video material you will be watching. Standard broadcast material is in a 4. 3:1 aspect ratio and is a rather small image compared to Hi-Definition video. So if your not going to be watching Hi-definition video (not sure why you wouldn’t) you will want to buy a screen and projector for that display image.
There are a few different size, hi definition screen sizes to choose from it again depends on how you want it to look. Of course 16:9 is the typical aspect ration screen for hi definition viewing, but there is also 2. 35:1 aspect ratio screens (which is now the hot size aspect ratio screens to have) as they show all hi definition movies in full wide screen mode without black bars on the top and bottom. You will though have black bars on the sides from movies shot in a format less then 2. 35:1. It is easier to setup masking for these screens.
There are a number of charts you can pull up on the net for viewing distance and screen size. First you may want to consider looking and narrowing it down to projectors that will display at the distance you have. You shouldn’t have any problems finding a good projector that can display at those distances.
I would suggest going to projector central, widescreen review, and perfect vision, as these are very reputable sources and will have information to help you choose the right projector for you setup.
If your on a budget I would strongly suggest looking at the Panasonic AE4000 as its seems to be the real buy in video projectors at under 2k us dollars, and even has preset to display at 2. 35:1 screens.
Take special care in choosing a video screen as the screen contributes significantly to the over all quality and brightness to the picture. A good screen is critical in getting a hi quality image.
I would also suggest that ether having your projector professionally ISF calibrated by a certified ISF technician or at the very least buying the Video Essentials blu-ray DVD and take the time to calibrate your video display yourself. With a little patience and practice you can can get very close to a professional calibration. This disc is very informative and will step you through the process. A professional ISF calibrator has very expensive test gear and can get into hidden menus to further refine the picture. With out this most people have not seen how good true hi-definition video can look. For as long as we own our TV’s and as much video as we view the investment is very reasonable.
Hope that helps you
Kevin
35 years hi-end audio video specialist
7 to 9 feet