Beginning projector...

J:
Go to avsforum.com and check the Displays area of the site. There you can you do research on any of the technologies you mention above. Another site would be projectorcentral.com. They do a lot of projector reviews and have articles on projectors and associated topics. Right now the Optoma HD70 (720p) is great bargain at around $1000. I have an Optoma H31 projector (480p projector) and it looks great (you could get one of those for around $500 - $600) with a Graywolf 92" screen, also made by Optoma. I also have a Panasonic plasma (also 480p) and it also performs great. Any of the Panasonic new plasmas will be great. Of course, you can also get a projector for a much bigger and immersive picture. There are many issues to consider with projectors such as the screen and the room layout, room lightning, etc. so you will have to do your research, but I bet you it will be more than worthwhile. I am already thinking about my next projector, not my next plasma or any other TV technology.

Good luck

Front projection can give you an immersive experience that otherwise seems unattainable. I've been thinking about a replacement for my excellent 36 XBR, and have come to the conclusion that a front projector needs to be supplemented with a flat panel display if you intend to do casual TV viewing as well as movies. The significant issue is the need for a darkened room with front projection -- I don't want to sit in a dark room to watch casual TV. Secondary is the issue of bulb life for a projector that would be a primary viewing source. My solution is a pull down sreeen in front of a flat panel display.

I don't think it's an either-or question if you would consider front projection. Rear projection can stand by itself, but you won't get the immersion you get from front projection.

db

Hey Don, My father and I are looking into equipment for his basement home theater to replace his standard def 60in Monitor, although his room is in the basement with no real light issues from the outside world he likes to watch sports or check out the news scroll while enjoying music.
My original thought was to use a flat panel monitor on the wall for these situations and use a pull down screen with projector for movie enjoyment, then I saw this screen wich on paper boasts almost no problem with use in light filled rooms wich I cant recall its brand but know it starts at $2500 for a 60in screen... now I would be real curious to see a real world demo of this, although it is very pricey it really isnt much more then having to add a quality flat panel to the mix, and my fathers finances wont be a concern with bulb life....just thought I would throw that idea at you.