Rear Projection TV Help

[Alienverse]

Hey all, just in the market for a cheap TV for my little game room in my basement. I found a Mitsubishi rear projection TV that looks to be a 1990's model going for a low price. I was just wondering how much these TVs go for (used prices), if they are any good, longevity, and applications for them (movies, games, etc). Thanks and take care!

P.S. If I posted this in the wrong forum or something feel free to let me know. Thanks!

[redwudz]

Older projection TVs are a real gamble. They generally use three CRT like units to project with. If these get out of alignment, the colors will be displaced on the screen. Some have on board alignment you can do yourself. The ones I have dealt with need occasional realignment. You would need to find a copy of the owners/maintenance manual. Mitsubishi would be the place to look. Do you have the exact model of the TV? Otherwise, we would just be guessing.

Myself, I wouldn't pay more than about $300US for it, depending on the condition. BTW, they are very bulky and heavy.

You can try this for support documents: http://www.mitsubishi-tv.com/j/i/18349/Support.html or for Canada, maybe: http://www.mitsubishielectric.ca/

You can also try a internet search for that model and you may get some leads. Good luck.

[Alienverse]

Thanks for the reply Redwudz. The gentleman selling me the TV is giving a 40' to me for $30. As far as he knows, the only problem is the screen is a bit dark (which I will test in person). Other than that, it apparently works completely fine. You think it is a good deal?

[redwudz]

Sure, seems like a good deal. Most of those sets weren't too bright anyway. But try to get a manual from him or find one on the net. I suspect it will need some alignment after you get it in place. Not really that hard. And be gentle moving it to keep the alignment as good as possible. You don't want to pay a tech to come to your home.

Some rear projection TVs used CRT tubes and some use a lamp, a LCD screen and a color wheel, similar to a regular video projector. That would be the preferred type as it may just need a new bulb.$$