Front projector vs Dlp?

[Scoly]

Lex,
Component in is ok and will be on dish so ok there. You recommend a "good projector". Will the panasonic ae500u fit this requirement? I know it is at the low end of fp but it is all I can afford at this time and all the reviews have been good. That said, online and magazine reviews are a poor source and would rather have experienced user input. The dealer is stating bulb life at 6-8k hrs. Is this realistic or are we looking at more like 2k hrs?
Thanks for your help.
Steve

[Lex]

There will be what is seen as some degredation on non-HD sources. There are ways to improve on this.

1. DirecTV or equivilent.
2. Make sure it has component video in.
3. Alternately, you could get a conversion box to convert NTSC to 480P, that would help a LOT, just make sure it's a respectable picture to begin with.
4. Limit screen size to less than 100" diagonal.
5. Get a good projector.

I watch quite a bit of broadcats using 1 and 2 above, and normally, it's just fine.

Lex

[Scoly]

Been away from the boards for a while with other interest (stereo) taking a priority. Back again and need some help. Interest have changed and am wanting to upgrade my video. Appreciate any assistance.
Looking for a new tv to move up to the new technology. The only source locally has a panasonic PT AE500U fp and can only show dvd's as a source. this sent up a red flag. Not being able to see it in person makes me wonder so I need help with a decision. Most of my tv watching will be from either cox cable or dishnetwork with about 10% dvd's. How much of a picture quality drop is there on cable non hi-def programming with fp compared to a dlp (samsung picture. Realize there is a tradeoff for the size which on the fp will be 84" and the dlp at 60". Just want a good quality pic for watching football, basketball, baseball, etc. Lighting will be fairly well controlled though not absolutely dark during the day. Really appreciate the advice.
Steve