Best projector under $1000?

[Red Storm]

So I'm looking to get a projector to use for the occasional TV/movie watching that will be done (couple times a week) and it will also be used for gaming. So what I need to know is, what is the best quality projector that's $1000 or less?

I know next to nothing on projectors, so I don't know what's good or bad. I saw this one on Newegg (ViewSonic PRO8200HD) which also comes with a free screen and mount (I'm sure it will be a crappy screen, free is free!). So how does that ViewSonic compare to the others?

 

[Spicedaddy]

BenQ W1000+ or Optoma HD20. Both are 1080p DLP projectors...

 

[Red Storm]

Hmm, The BenQ does seem to have good reviews, I'll have to look into it. How do these compare to something like the Epson PowerLite 8350? It's also 1080P, but LCD instead of DLP which from what I gather allows for more flexible positioning of the projector. But is it worth the extra ~$200 over something like the BenQ?

 

[Gunslinger08]

I bought the Epson 8350 a few months ago for my home theater after reading a whole bunch of reviews. I'm still a month or so away from finishing my basement, so I can't give any personal input, but pretty much everything I've seen said that it was the best you'll get in the price range.

 

[Spicedaddy]

Yeah, the cheaper DLPs don't have many adjustments, but it may not be needed depending on your room. I prefer a DLP image over LCD, but that's personal opinion.

If you need lens shift, then definitely go for the Epson. If you're projecting straight on, then try to demo LCD vs DLP and see which you like better.

 

[BurnItDwn]

DLP's often give slightly better black levels in the price range, but can possibly have noticeable rainbow effect.

I've got a Mitsu HC3800 and it is marvelous. Black levels could be better, but I can't complain too much. It is awesome.

http://www.projectorcentral.com/mitsubishi_hc3800_home_theater_projector_review2.htm

That said, you may not find one under $1000, I spent about $1400, but this was several months ago (and it came with 106 inch electronic screen, extra bulb, and mount kit, from costco)

 

[Pia]

I just bought a 8350 as well. My first projector and it's looking very fine. Bought from a specialized AV shop. The owner's opinion was that it is the best of its price class. (I came in specifically to buy the 8350, and he made an effort to upsell me on a more expensive Epson, so I don't think this was just marketing speech on his part.)

There was some weird white flashing though. I'll have to see if that keeps happening, and maybe switch some cables.