Projector under 1k worth it?

I am looking for a projector, preferably HD, but can I find one for less than a grand that is worth it? I would like to put it in the garage and just shine it on the wall. I would probably paint the section of the wall with a flat white paint and put a black border around it. I may put it in the house if it looks good enough. Are they all going to be just *ok* or can I find some that are good? Thanks in advance.

 

I have an Optoma projector that I bought at LEAST 5 years ago for a business, that I now shine on a wall for movie night. It's not HD, and it works great. It wouldn't be so good in daylight though.

 

I have no real knowledge on the subject but doesn't it stand to reason that since HD Tvs at around 42in are still around a grand and if you can get a projector at like 100 inches the 42 inches would be cheaper?

 

Andy, thanks I'll have to do some more research. I would just like a big picture. Plus when people are over we can put movies to shine at the back of the house and its kind of like being at a drive in and plenty of space for everyone. Pretty funny seeing the nieghbors walking on the trail behind the house stopping to watch some of the movie.
Jim thank you for the input I will take a look at the brand

 

Sounds like a great idea but remember that a thread on fchat is useless without pics

 

Hi MobileJay

I was surprised to see a home theater topic here on F-Chat. Take a look at curtpalme.com. It is a great forum to learn about all aspects of home theater. It is primarily for CRT projectors, but there is a section for digitals and the people are VERY knowledgeable. I am quite sure that several members are in the Houston area. You might be able to meet someone and get a demo.

I have a CRT and don't follow the digital discussions, but I have a feeling that $1K will not be near enough to get something worthwhile. Sometimes 720P is considered HD, but most are looking for 1080i or 1080p.

 

We have a movie night in our subdivision and use my projector all the time, I bought it about 5 years ago and it works great. We used to project it onthe side of the house and it was great, then we updraded to a huge white sheet that we hang up and have speakers we use (it is like a theater set up now). We have a picture that is at least 20 feet across and have had up to 50 people (kids and adults) watching the movie and it works great. The projector we use is nothing special, I think it cost be about $1000 5 years ago, they are smaller now and probably a little cheaper. Worse case buy one, try it and return it if you do not like it.

 

Good deal, thanks guys. I will look at that site Sowest, thanks.