Front Projector for ~$2500

[richardycc]

the hc6800 is actually not a bad choice for under $2k, a lot of users are very happy with it, but one in a while, you'd see someone or a review displease with its black levels. I am not sure if they just have a defective unit.

Since I've waited this long to upgrade, I will wait and pick the best one out of the replacement of panasonic ae4000, Epson 8500, mits hc6800 or the Sony hw15, hopefully sometimes around xmas or early 2011. I think they usually announce new model at the CEDIA EXPO show.

 

[ChAoTiCpInOy]

I actually got it for $1700. The main problem was that Best Buy doesn't carry those other projectors and they had a really good financing deal.

 

[ChAoTiCpInOy]

With free calibration in 2 months.

 

[RedCOMET]

With free calibration in 2 months.

So what that really means... you have 2 months to get everything set in the room.

 

[ericlp]

How often do you have to replace the bulbs?

Depends on how much you use it. I racked up 2000 hours in about 1.5 years. Tho I use my PJ for my TV. Eventually you will have to replace bulbs and clean the dust and dirt out of the fans.

IMO, I'd go for the best bang for the dollar ....

Optoma Home Theater Series HD20 1920 x 1080 DLP projector - HD 1080p 1700 ANSI lumens can't go wrong with this one. Can be had for around 900 tho I've seen it dip down in the 800's on sale.

Anyway. Spend that extra cash on a ceiling mount, screen and spare bulbs.

I think the HD20 is one of the best projectors out there. Even with a screen and spare bulbs (buy a bulb warranty) You should have about 800-1K left over from a 2500 budget. Use that for some seating or speakers.

 

[ChAoTiCpInOy]

So what that really means... you have 2 months to get everything set in the room.

And the reviews for this specific projector say you really need to get it calibrated. Because out of box isn't that great.

 

[richardycc]

I actually got it for $1700. The main problem was that Best Buy doesn't carry those other projectors and they had a really good financing deal.

that's a good price, esp with the free calibration..not sure if geek squad is same as an ISF calibration thou.