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Big, Bigger, Biggest is the reason I have a front projector in my theater. I want a picture as big as the sound my system produces. I looked at LCD, DLP and CRT televisions but to reach the size I wanted the cost was way out of line with my budget. I was fortunate that InFocus had recently released the X1 800x600 projector. The reviews, based on its very good HD capabilities for under $1000 sold me and I have been content through 2.5 lamps or about 8,000 hours of use.

I won’t pretend that the picture competes with a 1080p projector but it is as good as some of the 720p projectors I have run across. My point here is that you can have a big picture for a lot less than a 42” television and unless you must have the absolute best possible picture you will be happy, even amazed at the latest sub $1,000 projectors.

My projector is almost 6 years old now and I will need to replace it soon. I have seen the same model on Ebay, new, for around $400 recently. The InFocus 4800 and X3 are also about the same cost and there are many options now for under $500 that will give you the picture you crave with a very nice picture.

For those willing to spend a tad more, the options for 720p and 1080p projectors has fallen below $1500 and continues to drop. Sanyo, Optima, Panasonic and Mitsubishi all have excellent models in this price range.

There are a few considerations to discuss before making a swap though. If you can adjust to the requirements of a front projector, do it, you will not be disappointed.

Things to consider:

• A projector needs a screen or does it? I have found http://goosystems.com/screen paint rolled onto a flat wall is as good as any screen I have seen. Goo also provides a reference tool to assist in selecting the exact mixture that will work best for your projector.
• It isn’t a television and some projectors have a delay between being turned off and turned back on again. This has never been an issue for me but it is different than most of us are used to.
• Long cable runs. This is a problem in both additional cost and aesthetics. Most projectors are ceiling mounted and hiding the cables is difficult unless your room is pre-wired for it. Once you set up you never have to think about it again though.

Some people believe the need to replace lamps after 3,000+ hours of use is a hassle but it is very easy and much better than tossing out a TV and buying a new one.

If a front projector can work in your room, go for it, it is cheaper than a TV half the size and todays technology gives you a great picture at any price point.