Will a cheap portable screen put me off home cinema?

Newoldie · 10-11-2009, 7:16 PM

I am getting closer to investing in a projector and screen,mainly for HD tv and the occasional DVD.
The problem is that I can't make my mind up where to put the screen.(Don't be rude.)The sound system is not fixed.
Because of this I am thinking of getting a cheapish portable 16:9 80inch freestanding screen which I can use in various places.
My concern is that this may give such a poor result that I get disappointed and give up on it.

Any views?

Dillz · 10-11-2009, 10:31 PM

I doubt you will be disappointed, I started with the wall, then a very old borrowed slide projector screen before buying the beamax screen I have now. I can still remember how impressed I was the first time I fired up the projector onto that wall.

davee · 11-11-2009, 12:21 AM

Why not just use the wall to project on until you find a location you want to stick with. I personally wouldnt bother with a cheapish portable screen, more trouble than it worth imo. Youd be surprised at how good a picture a (flat) wall gives you

AV Nik · 12-11-2009, 1:28 AM

some portable screens will have a slight wave in the surface. Generally unseen when projected on unless you have side lighting reflecting on the screen whilst watching (try to avoid).

Electric and most manual wall screens have a reletively flat surface therefore offering a better all-round image.
The main reason to go for a screen instead of a wall (although a wall is a good starting point) is the diffused surface. Smooth surfaces like walls and in some cases cheap shiny surfaced screens, reflect too much light which will bounce around the room and back onto the screen causing the image to dull.
Manufacturers like Sapphire, Draper etc use a diffused surface which results in less reflection and therefore clearer image quality, especially with blacks.

Hope this helps.

Newoldie · 12-11-2009, 6:03 PM

Thanks for the advice.
I should have said in my original post that where I am considering putting the screen I don't have walls that I can use as a test-bed.Things like brick fireplaces and windows are in the way.

davee · 12-11-2009, 7:33 PM

Ah, well should give you some interesting textured effects