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Confused... Projector or Plasma???????

I am in the middle of assembling components for a dedicated home theater room. It will have 2 rows of seating. 2nd row I gather would be about 16' from the screen. Don't know whether I should be looking at a projector set up or plasma set up. I would like the screen size to be between 5' ( i have been looking at the new pioneer elite 60") and 7' in width. (5' is probably a little too small at 16' away)I would assume the projector would be the way to go for anything above 60" at the moment(cost concerns). Which set up has the best picture quality? (if you were to compare 60" screens)What's the biggest bang for the buck?
byfo
goatwuss
877 posts
 
For sitting that far from the screen, projection is your only option unless you want to be squinting to see the action.

Plasma is great for the living room, but if you want a real "theater" experience, you've got to go bigger.

The best quality projection I've seen (by far) is Runco. They are pricey, but worth it.
byfo OP
120 posts
 
Thanks guys for all your suggestions. I thought that a 60" screen would be too small at 16' away.

Rgwrjs, what's the difference in picture quality between the Pioneer 150 (I've heard this is an excellent plasma) and your JVC?

Chaskelljr2001, I'm looking at the Panasonic TH-42PZ700U for my living room. Any difference in picture quality between the 700U and 77U?

Chadnliz, the room will be soley for home theater and light is not an issue.

So in summary, less than around 60" = PLasma, more than 60" = projector

Any opinions on picture quality differences?

thanks again guys.
sogood51
2,157 posts
 
I sit at 17'....a 100" picture works great in my room. Projectors have come a long way, even the budget models ($1,500-$2,000) have very good picture quality.

Dave
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
At 16', projector for sure. I am a plasma fan but not at that distance. For reference, 42" plasma is just about right for an 8' distance in my room. At 10' its a little small. My $0.02. If light is not an issue, I would go projector for sure. And you are probably going to want professional calibration anyways.
narrod
1,064 posts
 
Only consider a projector if you can control lighting. If not, you will be disappointed and will be happier with Plasma. Also, you need to be thinking bigger than the sizes you are considering.
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