- All Things Home Video -

- Current review equipment -

      Home video display devices have come a long way in recent years with digital replacing analog displays. Although it will be several years before the market bottoms out as digital displays will continue to improve at a tremendous rate even with their ongoing price reductions. This impact will be felt stronger as the size of the display is increased. After two or more generations of larger 1080p displays arrive we feel the market will become more price competitive than feature driven as it is today.

      Just as digital has changed the display world high definition is beginning to do the same to the world of content. Unfortunately at a much slower rate since HD is being delivered as a supplement to existing standard definition content. Content is several generations behind displays and the HD source devices, media, and means of delivery are still pretty much in a constant state of flux.

      This doesn't mean now isn't the best time ever to purchase home audio and video equipment. Because is it! Never before have we been able to enjoy ourselves so thoroughly. From installing a home theater that rivals your local cineplex to recording two of your favorite TV shows that just happen to air at the same time there has never been a better time for enthusiasts.

      Here are a few suggestions to hopefully make your purchasing decisions a little more successful.

      General Information

• A 60-degree image arch is considered optimal for an immerse experience

• HD viewing distance should start at 1.25 times the image's width

• SD viewing distance should start at 2.0 times the image's width

• Before purchasing a DLP TV or projector spend time viewing its image to see if you are sensitive to rainbows

      Front Projection 

• Use painter's tape to outline the proposed screen area

• Projectors' lamps dim fairly quickly and lose up to 50% or more of their brightness over time

• 1080p projectors now offer long-lasting performance at a competitive price