re: How big is too big?

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multiply your viewing distance (in inches) by .84 or divide by 1.2 and that will give you the ideal screen size. This gives you the ideal 40degree viewing angle. At the very least divide the distance by 2.5 to get the minimum size for that distance.

For example: If my couch is 8 feet (96 inches) from where the TV goes.

Ideal: 96*.84= 80.64"
SMPTE 30 (30degree angle): 96/1.5= 64"
Minimum: 96/2.5= 38.4"

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This is a tradeoff for those sitting on-axis as, per that formula, my 14' viewing distance would require a 141" TV which would look like pixelated crap. Even the SMPTE formula would look like crap at 112" screen size.

These formulas were designed for theaters that are trying to give everyone a decent view of the screen even at the expense of the ideal, close-in, on-axis seating. Most homeowners arent tying to entertain multiple parties stretched across a wide area so the people on the end of the couch arent a factor most times so the tradeoff isnt worth it. You would be sacrificing the picture quality for your immediate family so that the few times a year you have 10+ people over they can see the screen.