Which Is Better? A Front Projector or an LCD Flat Screen.?

Question

When it comes to building the ultimate home theater system would it be better to have a front projector and screen or LCD Flat Screen?

Answer 1

Let us consider what you want and your environment.

If you want a "Theater" feel your screen size should be about 1/2 the distance from you to the screen or maybe a little bigger. So, if you are 144" away (12') your screen should be 72" or a little bigger. (Way expensive for an LCD) But if you are only 8' away a 4' TV - or a 52" is fine and not so expensive in an LCD anymore.

Other factors to consider.

While contrast on both can be quite good LCD fares better in mid to bright rooms. You can counter this with specialty screens. In fact Sony makes one for $400 that is BLACK but has a bright picture.

Projectors have bulbs to replace and those can be expensive.

To have the projector out of the way you may want to mount it on the ceiling and this means professional installation. It will need power and an expensive HDMI cable for best performance (DO NO SKIMP. Trust me you will be pissed if your cable in the wall has to be replaced because it wasn't good enough)

Also don't overlook plasma. It used to get a bad rap but because of all the improvements it is often the best choice for 60"+ flat screens. It will look better than a projection in any amount of light and will be less expensive than large LCDs. Most unflattering things people hear about plasma is either false or has been overcome with newer models.

Answer 2

I'm sorry, but to me "home theater" means projector and screen and not just plain ole TV.  I mean how can you actually call a 40" screen a theater?

If it were me I'd go with the projector.  I have been slowly replacing all my regular TV's with projectors and they look outstanding.  As long as you have a way to block the light during the daytime with blinds, drapes, etc you will be fine and the picture is still plenty good enough with enough light to read by.

Also, I'd stay away from spending a fortune on a 20' HDMI cord.  Component will work just as well as long as you get a high rated HD component cable.  You'll save a lot of money that way.

Again, I know others may disagree, but how can you call it a theater with a even a 60" tv.  It's just TV in the living room as far as I'm concerned.

Answer 3

hmm i would prefer a LCD flat screen as i think it would look nice in ur living room.. but to match with ur home theater maybe u would get a larger LCD screen..

try going to Audio House.. they do have a wide range of LCD TVs ..

Answer 4

It depends on what you want your home theater to be.  If it's a dedicated room and you can control lighting very well, then a projector is worthwhile...plus if it's a good quality projector and you have a large enough room you can create a picture size of around 100inch diagonal.  Keep in mind that resolution won't improve.  For most people who use a room for more than just movies, an LCD is probably the better choice with varying room lighting conditions.

Answer 5

well depends what you want

1- if you get a front projector you need to have a very dark room or else it will look very washed out.

2- a lcd flat screen world be better for a well lit room. but if you wand to get a size bigger than 42" you would want a plasma. because plasmas have better picture at larger size.

Answer 6

LCD flatscreen

Answer 7

A large (over 40") LCD HDTV is the only thing I'd consider over a theater projector.