video projector query

[Job]

Havin a go building a makeshift HTPC - wanna connect up a benq w100 DLP projector to my 7800gt via component and also connect up a decent progressive scan 5.1 DVD player via component also. That way I have full surround sound DVD running thru the projector and can fiddle around to get stereo sound (through the DVD speakers) for content coming from my PC. This equipment, including the cables, is going to rob me of all my cash, leaving no money for a proper projector screen.

My question is, if the white-ish wall that I'm projecting on is fully flat and devoid of too much texture, will it really impact too badly upon my viewing pleasure? I'm thinking of getting a projection of btw 70-90 inches at a 16:9 ratio 854x480 max res.

If I really need a screen - can I make one myself? How essential are they?

 

[unfalliblekrutch]

You should probably be OK. Why don't you try it and if it doesn't work out, then go out and buy a screen?

 

[Job]

Cos I most definitely can't afford one - I guess I would just be less pissed off if I knew it would look a bit crappy than if it were a surprise after spending all my money! Besides, why are these canvas screens so pricey?

 

[Redox]

I am using a DLP projector on a white wall and it looks fine for both movies and games. I have it blown up to about 10 feet wide. The main consideration is to have a very dark room, otherwise the colours look washed out.

 

[pctwo]

if it doesn't work out, you can MAKE your own screen with appropriate material you can buy at a fabric store. try googling "build your own projection screen"

I wonder how good it will look at that low rez though?

 

[Job]

the rez will be ok up to about 70-80" I should expect. There's plently of settings to teak with to make up for lack of pixels, contrast/brightness/sharpness etc. Besides, we don't have HDTV over here yet anyway and blu-ray's still a while off.

 

[Maxspeed996]

Originally posted by: Job
Cos I most definitely can't afford one - I guess I would just be less pissed off if I knew it would look a bit crappy than if it were a surprise after spending all my money! Besides, why are these canvas screens so pricey?

Most of these aren't actually just "canvas" they are something else hi-tech. Some of the ones that you see that are really expensive are actually a glass beaded surface for maximum light reflection. I've got a Proxima Ultralight LX1 that I bought a while ago , and I have it ceiling mounted in my office , and it projects onto a high$$ pull down blind. I think I spent $75 on the highest quality blind that I could find. It is white vinyl. And with the lights off in the office , the color is pretty darned bright on it. And even dark games , DOOM 3 is awesome on it. I recomend that if you try something like this, spend the money on a decent one , and then when you get it home , make sure that it rolls up straight , if not , take it off , and glue it back on straight , and ubuy some hand holds for the screen so the oils from your skin don't discolor the blind from grabbing it , and pulling it down or back up. Then make sure that it's mounted solid onto the wall , and it'll last you for a long time.

 

[Job]

Where would I buy such material from? $75 seems pretty reasonable - bear in mind im in the UK - I'm pretty sure I could make myself a screen, just need advice on the material itself

Thanks!