STACK #212 June 2022

LIFE TECH FEATURE

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Recreating the cinema experience at home and outdoors with a projector has never been easier or more affordable. But there are a number of key factors to consider in the pursuit of big screen luxury. A dedicated home theatre set-up boasting a projector was once reserved for the affluent or the diehard pictures in glorious 4K Ultra HD with image sizes up to 150 inches and, even better, there are portable models that can take the cinema experience outdoors under the stars. SIZE MATTERS First assess the size of the room where

you plan to set it up, and then the size of the projected image in relation to the projector’s position in the room. A portable model will provide more flexibility, of course. NOWSCREENING Will the projector be pointed at a clean white wall, a portable screen on a tripod, or a fixed wall-mounted screen? All three are ideal, however the light-reflective properties of a dedicated screen will always trump even the cleanest of walls, and bring out the best in 4K content (see breakout).

movie buff. Not anymore. Projectors have not only substantially decreased in price, but are also now packing the kind of tech and functionality found in smart TVs. Moreover, a pitch black room is no longer a necessity to get the best possible image quality from a projector, with today’s models optimised for both daytime viewing and movie nights. Modern projectors can beam

Bringing the big screen home is a tantalising prospect indeed, not least bidding farewell to exorbitant cinema ticket and candy bar prices. But before you take the plunge and transform your lounge room or backyard into a personal cinema, let’s dive into some key things to consider when purchasing a projector.

ON-SCREEN

Pointing a projector at a clean white wall is a simple ad hoc solution, but if you want the best and brightest possible picture quality (and why wouldn’t you?) or intend the projector to double as a TV, a dedicated screen is a must. They are easy to install and there’s one to suit every budget, from the rollable,

motorised and tripod-mounted variety, to fixed frame Ambient Light Rejecting (ALR) screens. The latter feature a light-reflecting coating and are the best option for regular use and home theatre rooms. Consider a portable screen if the projector is used occasionally, or you want the flexibility of creating an outdoor cinema experience.

28 JUNE 2022

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