As people realize that 3D in the home needs to be big to deliver the most impact, they turn to projectors rather than 3D televisions. But that can introduce a problem. A screen optimized for 3D imaging isn’t necessarily ideal for plain old 2D. 

Projectors that use the passive polarization 3D system need a screen that is highly reflective and preserves the polarization so it reaches the glasses properly.

So, what if you want to watch both 3D and 2D on the same screen? Stewart Filmscreen has two solutions for that problem.

The one I like best is a system called the Daily Dual. It’s not actually a screen, but a system to support two screens in one theater. Essentially it’s frame that holds one fixed screen and one motorized screen that unrolls in front of the fixed screen. Once installed, it looks just like one permanent screen, but the press of a button will reveal only the one you need at that moment. And the Daily Dual system doesn’t need to be for 2D to 3D systems. You can install one screen designed for ambient light situations and one for total darkness. Sync it with the day/night modes of your calibrated projector, and then your picture will be perfect all the time.

The other solution is a new dual-use screen material called the Silver 5D –because 3D+2D=5D I guess. Anyway, it’s designed for polarized 3D systems (either circular or linear polarization). It’s a 2.0 gain screen with a half gain above 30 degrees. Stewart says it’s an excellent high contrast screen for 2D viewing. Check out the Silver 5D specs below:

Grant Clauser - Technology and Web Editor, Electronic House

Grant Clauser has been covering home electronics for more than 10 years with editorial roles in several consumer and trade magazines. He's done ISF-level damage to hundreds of reviewed products and has had audio training from Home Acoustics Alliance and Sencore. He's also the author of the book The Trouble with Rivers. Follow him on Twitter @geclauser.