Screens

First thing you need to do is find a projection calculator and enter your model projector into it along with screen size and throw distance. This will tell you what "gain" screen you need. I have a 1200 lumen 720p lcd projector and a 133" dia screen. I needed to go to a 2.8 gain screen to get the pop I like. Go to AVS like mentioned above and do a little research there. It will pay big dividends.

I made my own screen using screen (ie canvas) material purchased on ebay (many vendors offer it there). I bought it a couple of years ago and think it cost about $20 or so. It's a hi-quality material that is stretched on a frame constructed of 1x2's with 1/4" masonite corner reinforcement. The screen is 92"x52" and cost me about $30 total and an hour of my time to construct. It works great.

Looking at the "paint on" options above, I can see advantages to them, in my case since my home theater has been a work in progress during the last 2 years, it's been handy being able to move the screen whenever I rearanged things.

The other recommendation I'd offer is given your budget should buy you a good quality screen (unless you're after motorized), do your research. When I bought mine I was experimenting with home theater/projection, and specifically wanted to keep the $ to a minimum. If you're not experimenting, do your research as suggested above by others. While mine is a very good screen and I'm happy with the results, I'm at a point now that I'm looking for something more SOA.

As for projectors, not sure what your budget is, but make sure it's native resolution is 720P minimum, AND that it's super quiet. I have a Optoma HD70 which is both and I'm extremely happy with it, and impressed given it cost <$900.

Go to Home Depot and buy a 4'x8' plastic panel used in bathroooms etc. It has a diamond like shiny surface on one side. Cut the panel to what ever size you want up to 97" diagnal. You are going to use the back side which has some shiny mold marks on the panel. Use a scotch brite pad and scuff up the entire surface to a uniform surface. Mount on the wall with adhesive or what ever. Will cost you about $17.00. I just installed a Stewart Grayhawk motorized in it's place and there is not much difference.

Look on videogon! Good quality screen is important. You don't specify format or type, so hard to advise. I have a used stewart 84" diag. fixed frame 4:3 format "grayhawk" screen for sale in your pricerange. (grayhawk is a off white/gray, contrast enhancing surface)

I expect to buy a Sony Pearl and the Stewart SST FireHawk developed with Sony for that projector. It would be my first projection system. Might I be better off trying a DIY screen and something like the Opima HD70, to get a better understanding of FP in my application before spending the money?

db