<EDIT>
I deleted all that text, my plan has changed. See below.
</EDIT>

Ok, instead of rebuilding my projector, I am building a completely new one. I plan to use the PRO lenses when they come out, along with the Hyundai L72S. Also, since brain says we will have a custom reflector specifically designed for us, I might as well check that out as well.

My main focus will be to correct the problems that plagued my old projector. The whole thing should look much nicer, as I will be making it from MDF, and I actually know how to paint now =D.

However, since the PRO lenses arent due out for a while, it may be a long time before my projector reaches completion. I am hoping that by 2006 I will have all the parts in my hands, but then that all depends on when the pro lenses are available (Hint Hint).

Cheers,
Nick

If weight is an issue, do not use mdf particle board. It is really heavy. Plywood works very well and is much lighter.

I think I will use MDF anyways. Even if its heavier, it seems a lot easier to work with than plywood judging by Pun15her's job. Plus since it comes smooth, it should require less sanding.

Cheers, Nick

15" or 17"?

Hey guys. I have been reading around a bit, and I have sort of a delemma.

I already have an old benq 567s sitting around (stripped). However, the longer throw distance and higher resolution of the 17" displays is quite, quite tempting. However, that means I would have to buy a new display.

Prices for LCDs, as far as I can see, have come down dramatically since I built my first projector! Last year, I got a *refurbished* BENq 567s for about $300. Now, there are 17" LCDs in the low 200s.

So, should I make the jump? Should I go all out and get the 17", or go for the 15" for now? I have a feeling that someday I would upgrade to 17" anyway, so perhaps now is the better time.

Post your input as to what is a good panel, etc etc. Then I will decide if I will go for 17" for my next projector.

Cheers,
Nick

<edit>

I think I will go for the 17". I'm gonna wait it out for the next PRO lense kit. By then, LCDs should be even cheaper, and it gives me lots of time to fundraise. Still post some info on 17" lcds, though.

</edit>

The 17" is probably the better choice (especially if you are going to upgrade anyways. It will give you high definition at 720p because the monitor is 1280x1024, The 17" does NOT have a longer throw, it has a shorter throw (a little bit shorter, at 8' it gives about a 110" image). You would need the PRO lenses for a longer throw (which are not available yet). They will be very expensive and make the box longer. If you want to go with a 17" monitor, a Hyundai L72S is probably a good choice ($209 from tigerdirect). Its probably better to just go for the 17" monitor if the slightly shorter throw won't be a big deal.

Yeah, I think I'm going to wait it out for the PRO lenses and get a 17". The Hyundai seems like a good monitor. Any indication of when the pro lenses willl be available? Also, you say they will be very expensive - any specifics?

The fresnel lenses I have now that I got from the LL store about a year ago for my benQ barely cover the area of that monitor, let alone a 17"!!

Cheers,
Nick

I've used MDF through out my project and you can get some great curves from it, but don't forget to wear a dust mask, MDF dust never comes of your lungs. Also check out bendy mdf, there's a link in my PLOG.

Also love the idea of a 17 " LCD, i wish i hadn't read your PLOG now.

Ay caramba! Now you know how I felt after reading about 17"... its like... why build XGA when you can have SXGA! Gotta have the best, I suppose. I saw that link for bendy mdf. Thanks, have fun with your PJ!!

Cheers,
Nick