My first dedicated home theater - on a budget

[jdlivestrong]

First of all, I have to say how much I enjoy this forum and its members!

I've been thinking about turning my basement into a dedicated home theater room. I think I've read just about every review on 720p and 1080p projectors. I was originally going to spring for a 1080p projector, but I just don't have the budget for it and can't see that happening any time soon with my wife and I expecting our first child. So, I've decided that I want to get a 720p projector and the Epson Home Cinema 720 has made it to the top of my list.

I wanted to get some advice before I take the plunge (I almost bought it today). I'm looking at getting a package deal from projectionguys.com. The Epson HC720 with the upgraded 106" Elite ezFrame R106H1 (CineGray screen, 1.0 gain, black velvet fixed frame). The package also includes a ceiling mount, 25 ft of HDMI, component, s-video, and composite cables, a mail in rebate for a free replacement lamp, and an upconverting DVD player. After all the discounts and rebates, the total with shipping would be $1480. The Epson also comes with the 2 year overnight replacement warranty that Epson has become known (and maybe even loved) for.

All of the a/v equipment from my signature will be moved to the theater room so I should have everything else that I need covered. I'll be using the theater room for 70% movies (80% Blu Ray, 20% SD-DVD) and 30% TV (mainly sports). I will also have 100% light control in the room. My viewing distance will be about 12ft and I plan to mount the projector on the ceiling anywhere from 10 to 15ft from the screen (depending on what is optimal).

Sorry if this is getting too long, I just want to paint a clear picture.

My questions:

- Is that screen a solid screen? Should I be getting the CineGray or CineWhite version (I'm leaning towards the CineWhite)? Will it be a screen that I can keep and be happy with when I decide to get a 1080p projector in a couple years?

- Is this a good deal? Or could I find something similar out there for much less? If so, could you point me in the right direction?

I know a lot of you will tell me to save some more money and get a 1080p projector...and I respect that, I just can't spend that kind of money right now. From some of the screen shots I've seen of 720p projectors in action, I think I'll be more than happy with the results for a couple of years.

Any insights you have would be appreciated!

[primaz]

I recommend to get the 1080 projector but do so at the price of the 720 buy buying a used one. This next year with so many great new 1080 projectors you will find a lot of people upgrading so that would be better to get someone's used projector.

I also think used is good for the electronics for certain brands. In early 2009 Outlaw Audio is putting on their new flag ship surround sound pre amp processor for $1300 and they are selling the previous model for around $699 but to go even cheaper there are a lot of people with that model and it will go for around $375-400 on Ebay. That way you do not need to settle for a reciever processor yet have separates at a bargin.

[jdlivestrong]

Originally Posted by primaz

I recommend to get the 1080 projector but do so at the price of the 720 buy buying a used one. This next year with so many great new 1080 projectors you will find a lot of people upgrading so that would be better to get someone's used projector.

I'm just having a hard time believing that the Epson HC720 isn't a quality projector...I think it would stack up just fine with a 1 year old used 1080p model. And I would have the peace of mind that if anything happened to it in the next 2 years it would be replaced with a new one for free. If I find a used 1080p projector and it breaks, I'm out $1000. If I knew someone locally that was selling one, I might feel better about it, but I don't think I'm ready to roll the dice on eBay.

I appreciate the advice and will keep it in my back pocket. I'm hopeful there are some others out there who have been in my shoes recently and can help.

[jdlivestrong]

The price dropped to $1400 shipped today (thru 1/12), but no free DVD player (I probably wouldn't have used it anyway).

[FIDDYPOP]

I have been researching Projector screens, there are even instructions on these forums on how to make your own for under a hundred bucks. Everything I have read states that white screens are the best to go with.

[jdlivestrong]

Originally Posted by FIDDYPOP

I have been researching Projector screens, there are even instructions on these forums on how to make your own for under a hundred bucks. Everything I have read states that white screens are the best to go with.

Thanks FIDDYPOP...I've looked into making my own, but I decided that spending a couple hundred dollars more for a proven, pre-made screen was the right solution for me. I'm leaning towards a white screen right now, but the gray may be kind of nice for the extra contrast (or deeper blacks).

By the way...I really like your media shelves...where did you get them and how much?