Whatever you do, don't get an Optoma.
I have an Optoma that needed repairs, just out of warranty. Had the worst possible customer service hassles possible. They finally "fixed" my lovely projector for an ungodly amount of cash, and shipped it back. It still didn't work. All my emails ignored after that, and the voice mailbox of my rep was continuously full. Bunch of wankers. Never again.
Optoma can go suck a d**k.
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When you decide on a projector, you'll also be needing a quality screen to project onto, as well. White wall really doesn't cut it. Take that into consideration. They are quite easy to mount, so it's not a big deal, but they'll run a few extra bucks.
Also, most projectors have no speakers. You'll need to have a plan in place for wiring all over the place, to hook it up to your sound system. Same for the video sources.
The projector will be behind you, most times. Think about that when planning the wiring and a/v equipment placement. Also, check exactly which a/v inputs your projector accepts. Mine, for example, does not have a HDMI input - but that's okay, 'cos the PS3 player can convert output to 3-cable component, which I can accomodate fine.
Check which angle the projector is optomised for, too. My
Optoma brand projector was designed to sit low and angle upwards. Many other projectors are designed to be mounted high (even bracketed to the ceiling) and angle down a wee bit. The projector should have a function called Keystoning, which allows for variances and adjustment of the optimal angle.
Look up the price of replacement bulbs before doing anything else. Just sayin'.
Hope you found some of that useful.
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p.s. Optoma should be avoided like the plague. Not sure if I mentioned that enough times.