When setting up a home theater system, there's one element that is often overlooked--the screen. Consumers diligently seek the best performing projector they can afford--and then seek the least expensive screen. However, higher quality screens offer better reflection of light, which translates into brighter colors and higher contrast. For this reason, we are reviewing two of the best screens on the market, the Da-Lite Cosmopolitan Electron (with a High Contrast Matt White screen), and the Da-Lite Slimline Electrol (with a Matt White screen).
If you read our review of the InFocus X2 you probably realize that, for less money than a big screen TV, you can transform your living room into a movie theater. The projector runs a mere $1000, and most people already have a stereo system. So why not spend a little extra to get a screen that makes your movies look brilliant?
Why all the justification? Well, the Da-Lite Electrol screens cost around $900 for a seven-foot diagonal screen, versus $200-$300 for the cheapest screens on the market. But the price reflects a big difference in the quality of the screen, and therefore in the quality of the image you're watching. If that's not enough justification, the Electrol screens electronically retract from your roof. How cool is that?
The Da-Lite Slimline Electrol is by far the hippest screen we've seen. The casing is extremely narrow; perfect for small rooms where you do not want the screen to be noticeable. It's super light and it does'nt require any special wiring. There is a simple switch on the plug that lets you electronically retract the screen. To install the screen, we simply installed two hooks into the wall, hung the screen, and plugged the cord into the wall. It's that easy!
The Da-Lite Cosmopolitan Electrol is bulkier than the Slimline, but it offers a wider variety of fabric types, and features quiet operation. You will need to have this screen professionally installed, as it is quite heavy and needs to be wired into your wall. While this may be a rather tedious procedure, the advantage is that your screen will be operated by a light switch. This also means that you can set up the screen on a remote control, which would be more convenient (and highly impressive to your guests).
Unfortunately, trying to find the perfect screen can be a bit overwhelming, as Da-Lite offers about a dozen Electrol models, in multiple sizes, and multiple fabrics. Some of the models retract from the floor, some are built into your roof, and some can be mounted to the wall. Some of the screens are meant for low light applications, some are meant for rooms with lots of windows. For this reason, we recommend calling Da-Lite, or your local home theater shop. You'll find that they are used to fielding similar calls, and quite helpful in identifying the right screen for your needs.
For more information on the Da-Lite screens, visit www.Da-Lite.com
When setting up a home theater system, there's one element that is often overlooked--the screen. Consumers diligently seek the best performing projector they can afford--and then seek the least expensive screen. However, higher quality screens offer better reflection of light, which translates into brighter colors and higher contrast. For this reason, we are reviewing two of the best screens on the market, the Da-Lite Cosmopolitan Electron (with a High Contrast Matt White screen), and the Da-Lite Slimline Electrol (with a Matt White screen).
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