The Fixed Projector Screen and the Home Theater

Many people these days are adding a projector and projector screen to their home theaters. While this can be a fairly expensive addition, prices are definitely going down, availability is heightened and the quality of projectors and projector screens is rapidly improving. There are many different options available to the home theater enthusiast, some which can bring costs down substantially. For example, simply purchasing a refurbished projector rather than a brand new one can bring the price down to the point that almost anyone could afford a fairly good home theater setup.

If you have not considered this option, or if you are just setting up a home theater for the first time, please read on. I have tried to compile as much pertinent information on the topic as I can.  I hope, over the course of the next few weeks, to add more information on this topic as well, in an effort to make it helpful for anyone considering this option.

Even though many of the fixed projector screens look very similar at first glance, there are subtle differences between them. Some have more features than others, while others are made from slightly different material and there are also differences in the actual appearance of the screen itself. The best way to find out exactly what the specs are for each type of projector screen you are considering buying is to simply look online and read the customer reviews and also the projected specs.

Of course, if you are using a fairly modern projector most of these differences won't make much of a difference on the quality of the picture you see. If you are using an older projector however you will need to make sure that the screen gives you optimum viewing quality. Generally speaking if the projector is only a couple of years old, you should not have any problems with the display.

If you do end up getting a refurbished projector or you have an old projector that you are hoping to use here are a few things that you might need to pay special attention to.

Resolution: Just by virtue of how some screens are made, some will naturally produce a much sharper image no matter what project you use. It is actually almost impossible to determine this just from looking at specs alone. This is when it is really handy if there are different equipment reviews available from people who bought the screen as they can give you an idea of how well the screen performs. But probably the best way to find out how well the projector screen will do is to actually go and test different models.

Screen brightness and reflectivity: You will also want to check out how much like the screen reflects as this is one area where there is a large disparity between different screens, even at times when there doesn't seem to be any reason for it. Again, test the screen before you buy it.

Contrast: In order to get a proper picture of the contrast and how your screen will perform it is important to actually use the project you going to be using or a similar model of projector. It is very difficult to determine this without doing so.

Color: As screens are meant to be neutral, the actual screen itself should not affect the color. However some cheaper screens may affect the image color. Probably the safest projector screen material to go with is the matte white finish as this should work with most of the current project is on the market and be neutral enough to show good color and good image.

Quality: Here is where you will find a fairly large difference in projector screens. While the actual screen material itself is probably close to the same quality and most projectors the actual framework and the way it is put together can vary quite a bit. The fixed projector screen does not get as much mechanical wear and tear as an electric projector, as it stays relatively stationary and is not rolled up and down frequently. But the screen is in danger of becoming quite dusty which will affect your viewing quality, and it is fairly easy to damage the screen as it is left out all the time. This is where making sure your screen is of good quality material will make it less likely that it is damaged in any way.

You will probably also want to decide on what type of frame you will go with; whether you will have the standard black framing or if you want to instead consider getting a matching wood finish frame. Some people are concerned that the projector screen blends in with the existing furniture, and in a situation like that you may want to go for the wood finish.

As you can see there are quite a few details that go into buying something even as simple as a fixed projector screen. Quality is important and something that needs to be carefully looked at, as well as specific details and specs of the screens that you are looking at. You will find that the more high-end projector screens to cost more, and also you will most likely have to pay more for things such as ease of installation and the overall appearance of the screen.

You can also buy screens that are specifically made for a certain functions. For example some fixed projector screens have tiny holes in them which allow sound to travel through the screen. This works really well with home theaters where the speakers are placed directly behind the fixed projector screen. These are quite a bit more expensive though.

The best thing you can do if you are thinking about buying a fixed projector screen is to do a thorough search online, read through customer reviews and note down each model's good points and bad points, and decide what is essential for you. Then you will need to make a decision based on the options available and your current budget. It is also a good idea to visit a local store and actually do a test run with the projector that you are thinking of getting.

Following these few simple steps should help you to be up to find just the right fixed projector screen for your home theater needs.