Optoma Ep719 - looking for a entry level projector

[Vento_Dub9]

Came across this projector that I can pickup for $100, will need a new bulb soon but seems like a good deal. Would something like this be decent for a newbie to the world of projectors? It looks like it's maybe more for business use but does display 720p / 1080i. Has dvi connection so hdmi to dvi would be my best bet. Anything else I should know? Worth the purchase or save my money?
Thanks

[Vento_Dub9]

Also if I use the DVI-d connection to hdmi to my receiver will that carry video as well as audio? Or just video? thanks

[kpkelley]

DVI-D will only pass video.

That projector is a business projector capable of accepting an hd signal, but the resolution is not an hd resolution(1024x768). Furthermore, a new bulb will cost a few hundred dollars.

I would suggest looking at used entry level 720p projectors. Sites like Projectorrevies.com and projectorcentral.com have lots of information that you can cross reference including some archived reviews.

A dedicated home theatre projector will generally have greater contrast than a similarly priced business projector. The business projector is likely to be brighter.

[Vento_Dub9]

Originally Posted by kpkelley

DVI-D will only pass video.

That projector is a business projector capable of accepting an hd signal, but the resolution is not an hd resolution(1024x768). Furthermore, a new bulb will cost a few hundred dollars.

I would suggest looking at used entry level 720p projectors. Sites like Projectorrevies.com and projectorcentral.com have lots of information that you can cross reference including some archived reviews.

A dedicated home theatre projector will generally have greater contrast than a similarly priced business projector. The business projector is likely to be brighter.

Thanks for the info. Now as far as audio goes, what would be my best option? It appears I wouldn't have too many.

[kpkelley]

Originally Posted by Vento_Dub9

Thanks for the info. Now as far as audio goes, what would be my best option? It appears I wouldn't have too many.

You don't need the audio to go the projector anyway. They usually have crappy onboard speakers that make terrible noises and shorten the life of the bulb.

Let your reciever handle the audio from whatever sources you have.

[Vento_Dub9]

Originally Posted by kpkelley

You don't need the audio to go the projector anyway. They usually have crappy onboard speakers that make terrible noises and shorten the life of the bulb.

Let your reciever handle the audio from whatever sources you have.

Haha.. disregard last question, I had a lapse of stupidity. Thanks again.