Aspect Ratio

[Stueyd123]

Hi guys
Could somebody give me some advice through their experience. I need to buy a projector but don't know what ratio I need and what effect different ratios make.Thanks

[wbond]

4:3 gives you more of a square image so easier to fill more on a narrower screen. If you have anywhere near a 16' width to work with then go 16:9 as that will be the best image since you're leaving it in its native resolution. Assuming you buy a native hd 16:9 projector. I don't have that kind of width so I use 4:3 and use my full 10' width of screen. I have a native 16:9 projector and force it to 4:3 so I don't get full resolution.

[aja]

Start your search by figuring out how much space you have for your impact screen. 16:9 is a very wide ratio compared to screen height.

Think of it this way, most impact screens are max 10 feet high. But at 16:9 projection you need a screen that's almost 17 feet wide, if it's about 10 feet high.

On the other hand, 10 foot high at 4:3 comes to about 13 feet 4 inches. That's still pretty big but not as wide as 16:9 in the same space.

[Stueyd123]

Is it best to get a projector with the ability to change the image to fit the screen without distortion. If so, what do I need to look for in a projector. Thanks

[aja]

You are asking very general questions. Projector technology is very good these days so most projectors are able to "fill the screen without distortion".

There is plenty of information on: http://www.projectorcentral.com/. Do some reading and you will get useful information.

[Boo Radley]

Yes, I think so, I have a screen 12X9 but I run my Benq 1085 @ 16:9, it gives a more natural looking picture and I fill the screen top to bottom and let the excess bleed off unto my black side curtains.....I see a more fairway and less of the peripheral trees and stuff..