HD Projection Screens - A Home Theater Fantasy?

By Otto Tromm
High Definition projection is a definite step forward when you want to have a home theatre that rivals the best commercial theatres.




The specifications for an HD projector are well defined, so you know exactly which projector is a full HD projector and which one isn't. Just by looking at the specifications.



Projection screens are a different story all together. There are no real specifications to begin with. Sure, you have gain and viewing angles, but since a projection screen can only reflect what the projector puts out, it's hard to compare. Especially when you add the impact of ambient light to the equation. (ambient light is all light that is not coming from the projector).



So how can you get the right projection screen for your HD projector?



First of all, you have to realize that there are no HD projection screens. There is no industry standard that determines which projection screen would or would not be high definition. Nor is that possible, because with an HD projector a projection screen would then be HD, but with a standard projector it would not be.



So now that we have determined that an HD projection screen does not exist, what do you look for when you want to have the most from your HD projector?



1. A wrinkle-free fabric. V-shapes and horizontal lines are common with some projection screens. But, this is a no-go for an HD set-up, since any distortion in a razor sharp image can be seen immediately. The best screen types are fixed frame screens and electric or tensioned electric projection screens. Manual screens are cheap, but rarely offer a level of planarity that results in a distortion-free projection.



2. A smooth fabric. Some fabrics are coarse in the sense that the projection layer sprayed onto the carrier material has a clear structure. This interferes with the projection, since with an HD projection, the structure will be visible. This is not only annoying, but takes the realism out of the movies you project.



If you look at these two factors, you are guaranteed to have a perfect projection screen. Don't believe HD or HD ready labels stuck onto a projection screen or displayed on a site.



And, if possible, visit a showroom where you can see the differences between fabrics and see how they perform. If that's no option, ask for fabric samples, as many manufacturers make these available, free of charge, so you can see what the material is like, without ever leaving your home.



So an HD projection screen is a fantasy, but you can get a screen that will make the most of your projector.



As an award winning projection screen designer and founder of Beamax projection screens, Otto Tromm knows what matters when you want to get the most from your projection screen.



More importantly, he recognises the value of industrial design, so that you can have a projection screen in your own home, without it dominating the room.



To find a projector screen that matches your room, budget and projector, go to http://www.beamax.com



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