Current Projectors vs. 4 yr. old Runco

[HTSteve]

My 4 year old Runco RS-900 had developed a picture issue (picture 'reorders the columns' on the right side). It was intermittant, but is now permanent.

Research suggests it maybe a video board. As it is out of warranty, that's an expensive fix.

So I may fix it, or maybe time to consider something new.

I've been looking at current projectors like the Epson 5010 and Panasonic AE7000. I've read how good these projectors are, a significant step forward even in the last year, in terms of price/performance. I've recently started looking into the LS series from Runco as well.

My question is how do these models of today stack up to the RS900?
I always do an ISF calibration on my displays.

I have a dedicated HT Room with very good light control.

Around last Thanksgiving, we replaced a 4 year Sharp Aquos with a new LG. We were pleasantly surprised how improved the picture was (not that Sharp had a poor picture. It was very good). So I'm wondering if similar improvement has been had in the projector space.


Any insight is appreciated.

[W9TR]

Steve,
This is a tough one. Projector years are like dog years. So your Runco is 28! But your current projector is already using a 1080P Super-Onyx DMD. It will have great 'pop' and inter-scene contrast, outstanding color rendition, and good motion performance. The new 3 chip LCD's will have a slight edge in on/off contrast ratio, and lower moire' effect in very complex scenes with a lot of motion. But that's about it. You'll lose some of the 'pop', and find that mid-tones and flesh tones have slightly artificial look to them. Does your current projector do dark scenes to your satisfaction? This is what the newer projectors will do well.

To prevent disappointment, I would definitely critically audition either of these choices before you pull the trigger. That, and find out how much your Runco will cost to repair. I ultimately prever the 3 chip SXRD/DILA projectors from Sony and JVC to the 3 LCD projectors because I watch only movies. I find the SXRD/DILA projectors more 'cinematic' looking and dynamic.

Tom

[Masterlu]

My G90 is an Old Bird at "70"

[VT Skier]

I have a Marantz VP 11S2 that's about three or four years old, and I've been checking out the new projectors at CES for the last two years to see whether it's time to update. And I don't think it is yet.

Maybe in another year or two when the next generation comes out, but like you, I've already got 1080 and while the newer models are definitely better (much quieter for instance) mine is still good enough for now. At least to my eyes.

So for you, I guess it depends on the cost of a new board vs the cost of another projector. If you decide to look at PJs, I've found the JVC D-ILA products to be pretty impressive, but Runco is, of course, a step above.

[HTSteve]

Thanks for the feedback.

I've actually started looking at the LS series from Runco as well.

[TommyC]

For video displays, 4 years is a long time. The newer cheaper ones will usually perform better than older $$$ ones.

[HTSteve]

I'll be able to answer my original post soon. I ordered a Runco LS-3 yesterday. Planned install date is next Thursday.

[Masterlu]

Originally Posted by HTSteve

I'll be able to answer my original post soon. I ordered a Runco LS-3 yesterday. Planned install date is next Thursday.

[chessman]

HTSteve, looking forward to your evaluation. I have a Marantz VP-15S that still looks good, but is getting long in the tooth, so I may in the market soon.

[trek737]

Originally Posted by HTSteve

I'll be able to answer my original post soon. I ordered a Runco LS-3 yesterday. Planned install date is next Thursday.

HTSteve,

Congrats on your new Runco. Let us know what you think. Did they say what kind of light output you can expect? What size screen are you using? I have been looking at the Runco LS-10i, so I am kind of in the market...

Cheers,
Jim