FP screen , +$$$ = better pic - fact or fiction?

Bdgregory - I think you missed the comma between the paint on and the $1,000 price point screen.

I'll try this question phrased a different way. Is there a clearly visable difference between these three:

1. paint on screen on flat, smooth drywall
2. A fixed mount screen in the "up to $1,200" price range
3. Top rated "Stewart" or other premium brand fixed mount in the $2-3,000. range.

I can afford to buy a Stewart but as with most things in the audio/video hobby, spending more money doesn't necessarily give you an audible or visable difference. Also, I have found that at 56 years old, I reach the point of diminshing returns quicker than I used to with 56 year old eyes and ears!

Can anyone (from personnal experience) recommend a sub-$1,200 fixed screen that I would never feel like I'd want to upgrade from (or do I hold out a couple more months and spend more). Thanks in advance for your help.

Northwoods . . . indeed I did miss the comma. Sorry about that, I need to take more care in reading.

I have no personal experience with screens anywhere near $1200, and I suspect my standards are a bit more lax than many, since I'm still satisfied with 720p. What I can tell you about my cheapo DIY screen is that the quality is comparable to my Samsung 60" DLP (also 720p) tv that I have upstairs. The exception being that I need to lower the room lights for my front projector. I've had guests express amazement by the picture quality on my 10' screen.
Here's the material I used. It looks like they raised the price since I bought 2 years ago.

I hope that helps.

Bdgregory, thanks for the info.

The best picture quality will typically come from a simple and inexpensive matt white screen IF AND ONLY IF:

1. Your projector has enough light output for the screen size you choose

2. You can completely control the light in the room and make it dark.

3. Your screen surface remains perfectly flat, e.g. doesn't warp or wave over time

A matt white screen has the best off axis viewing, most natural colors and no hotspotting.

The reasons to buy a more expensive screen:

1. You want a motorized screen (convenience + the ability to hide the screen)

2. Tab tensioning, which will keep the screen flat forever.

3. You need more light gain so you get a 1.3 (or higher) gain screen.

4. Your projector has very high light output and can benefit from a high contrast gray screen.