What is the best way to go in purchasing an HD Home Theatre Setup?

Question

I just purchased a PS3 and a few Blu-Ray movies. Unfortunately, I do not own an HDTV and cannot utilize the power of HD yet. I would like to know what would provide the best picture between a plasma television, an LCD television, a DLP television, a rear-projection television, or a projector? Or is there some online forum or tech website where I can go to get all the important information I need? Please do not recommend televisions above $4,000, as this is the maximum I am willing to spend. Thanks for the help

Answer 1

one of the first things you need to do is set a budget and try to stick to it. once you start exploring your options you mind will be blown away and so will your wallet. focus on what you can handle and afford and not on what you dream of handling and affording. second since you purchased a ps3 player go with either a projector screen or a dlp television. no plasma's, they have burn in problems with gaming units. home theatermag.com and projectorcentral.com are excellent sites for info. also try cedia.com, these people are the end all of knowledge about home theater.

Answer 2

There are all sorts of websites, but other than a couple to get you going (see below) I suggest you do a google search for "home theatre review".

Look for articles that compare options.

However, to make any of this information useful you need to first decide what matters to you (budget, what do you want to listen to, what space requirements, listening/viewing position and distance, physical limitations (e.g. thin walls, light control, dedicated room), etc.). Only then can you make an informed choice.

My personal suggestion is a front projector rather than an HDTV. It's the best way by far to enjoy something approximating a movie theatre (and that doesn't necessarily mean worse ... it can be better). As a teaser, a 1080p projector can be had for slightly over $2000 these days, and that can give you a gorgeous 100"-120" picture (if you have room for it).

But projectors have some disadvantages too (lamps have to be replaced every 2-3 years @ ~$350/time) and they are best suited to rooms bigger than 9'x12' ... but they are THE way to go for watching with more than 3-4 people.

The third and fourth links are to projector-centric sites.

The last link is to AVS Forum, THE place to go to get advice and input on home theatre questions of any type.

Happy researching.

Answer 3

http://reviews.cnet.com/4370-6485_7-168-...

take a look at the above link.