Seeking advice on projector lamp replacement

[siggie]

It is time to replace the lamp in my Panasonic PT-AX100U projector. It is more than ten years old, so I do not want to make a big investment in the lamp. My options seem to be dodgy knock offs for around $60, an option I have ruled out unless someone can convince me otherwise, and the official (I think) replacement lamp found here:Pureland Supply, or here: Jaspertronics.


Despite my projector's age and 720p resolution, I like and utilize its placement flexibility, since I have it mounted on the ceiling inside and use it outside on my deck. I was hoping to find that there are budget friendly 1080p projectors now that 4K is all the rage, but I am not seeing anything in the $350 range, which is what I am willing to spend on a replacement.

If anyone has any input, I would be grateful.

siggie

[26gary26]

I purchased one at a Camera shop once when a friend suggested I try there.  It was a full fledged camera store only though. There may not be many of those around anymore. Maybe there is one near you.

[boomzilla]

I got a 1080p in 16x9 native format with a bad bulb at a yard sale - $CHEAP.

I'm going to test the $40 replacement bulbs and see how they do.

[klinemj]

I've had good luck with the Projector People, but my PJ just said it's time for another new bulb. So, I'll be looking around to see what deals are out there.

Mark

[tom9933]

I had an epson 5030 and I tried a couple of different amazon bulbs... They all looked liked the OEM but were a little different as they all caused a beeping sound in the projector. The only fix was a Epson bulb which may not be worth putting in a 10 year old machine. As you mention new PJs especially in 1080 have gotten really cheap, and even a 2-3 year old machine would be a huge step up from a 10 year old... My vote would be to find an older "B" stock unit or very low hour used unit.

[routlaw]

I have an Epson 8700 UB THX projector that I will sell you for $350.00 + shipping. Its in great shape we still use regularly but don't recall the hours on the bulb, however I have replaced that within the last year. Rough guess might be 500 hours ±. Let me know.

Thanks