Receivers: Pioneer VSX923 and VSX1123
8m HDMI cable to the projector, which has a VGA port
there then the converter
Beamer I mention why not (tested with NEC, Epson, BenQ), since the problem was the combination between the receiver and converter. Did tested several converters, the laptop out (MacBook) or from the receiver out actually all went converter on Beamer - only when I go out directly from the receiver, which is the first of 3 tested the works. However, he needs additional power over USB (at least when the HDMI signal comes from the receiver).
Long-term experience: No, and the sound I've 'not tested (I need personally not)