Video Asylum

Posted by BQ on February 01, 2001 at 11:42:22:

In Reply to: direct view tv vs. RPTV any insights? posted by zaphod on January 30, 2001 at 16:02:58:

Whew! Simple questions, tough to answer.

These forums are fine for debates. If you need specific product reviews, try Stereophile Guide to Home Theater magazine. It's not perfect, but it's pretty good.

Here's my $.02 on the subject.

Direct views are brighter and less of a problem with ambient room light than rear projectors, but they are limited in screen size. They are also the least expensive way to go.

Rear projectors, by contrast, have screens from 40-70". Prices here are low to mid 4-figures. More money gets you better line doublers, 16:9 format, HDTV, bigger screen, more options. These sets are big and can be challenging to place in a room, let alone get thru the front door!

Each of these alternatives have different SAF considerations, something that you will be reminded of if you forget to involve the S.

You don't say what your budget is, or your room size, or your HT plans, so I can't tell you much else. In any case, good luck, and it's only money, right?