Laminate Screen Color Choice

[Maceo23]

Hi Guys,

I recently bought an Infocus SP5000 projector, and have pretty much decided to go with a laminate screen. It seems to me like the easiest diy route, and the screen shots I have seen look great. At this point I'm thinking about going with fashion gray. I have a large window in my room but the curtains pretty much black it out no matter the time of day. Most movie viewing is probably going to be in complete darkness, but I'm sure there will be a lot of sports being watch also, and with many friends pilled in the room, I'm sure some ambient light will be needed. So any input or direction I could get will be greatly appreciated. The room itself is 16 x13, and I'd like to be between 110' and 120' diagnal on the screen.

[mechman]

What percentage is gonna be lights out viewing? I'll have Bill chime in here. I know he had a couple new color choices which may be better for you.

mech

[Maceo23]

Hi Mechman,
I would say that it would probably be about 50/50.

[mechman]

Bear with us! wbassett is gonna look up the N8.5 shade laminate today. Hopefully it's something you can get locally. If not then Fashion Grey.

mech

[Maceo23]

I think that Wilsonart is based out of Houston, so I don't think I should have any problem getting my hands on it.

[wbassett]

mechman wrote:

Bear with us! wbassett is gonna look up the N8.5 shade laminate today. Hopefully it's something you can get locally. If not then Fashion Grey.

mech

Maceo keep in mind these haven't been formally tested yet for actual color balance.

Email from Wilsonart wrote:

William,

Thank you for your inquiry concerning Wilsonart Laminate. I have forwarded your comments to the appropriate parties.

After reviewing your request with our design department, our D427 Linen (in our non-standard range) is an almost exact match for the Munsell N9.25 (not the N9). Our D388 Crystal is closer to the value (light/dark) of N8.5 although is warmer (not as blue-grey), so not necessarily a "better" option than our D381 Fashion Grey.

Samples of the two designs are produced and will be sent to you for your evaluation. Keep in mind that these are in our non-standard offering which currently involves slightly longer lead times.

I hope this information is helpful. If I can be of further assistance, please let me know.


Regards

So the n8.5 is said to be a little warm. It could still be within specs for neutral but is most likely withinin the acceptable screen range and not a true neutral, so please keep that in mind.

[Maceo23]

So would you recomend that I go with the N8.5?

[wbassett]

Based on the calculator at Projector Central, you have plenty of lumens and fL of brightness at the screen. Fashion Grey is a known performer, but you could also handle Platinum, which is more neutral. Keep in mind that you may have to put a poly coating on to tame down any hot spotting issues if they are a problem, but it's not hard to apply.

We haven't had the D388 Crystal formally tested yet so I can't say if it's close enough to be acceptable, or if it's out of the range I would recommend for a screen.

So based on what you are saying I'd say Fashion Grey or Platinum are both good choices.