No Need To Spend More...

I previously owned the Sharp XVZ-200U DLP projector, and upgraded to this unit. I paid $1850 for this unit at Ultimate Electronics on 2/06. I got an extended warranty for $399 that extends the warranty to 4 years, including 2 lamp replacements. After some research online, each replacement bulb costs about $650! If you can, get a warranty that covers the bulb.

Picture Quality: First off, I have to adamantly disagree with the other reviewers of this product when it comes to color reproduction. It took HOURS of fine tuning to get the color correct on this unit, it was REALLY bad right out of the box. The good news is that the projector comes with color calibration software and a USB cable to connect to you laptop/computer. I used this program, and found it to work quite well. It was a little cumbersome at first, but it grew on my after the first hour or two! After getting it fine tuned it LOOKS GREAT! Really great. I like it. Like all LCD’s, black level could be better. Also, the refresh is a bit slow, so fast moving action can leave a bit to be desired. Not enough to really complain, but it could be better.

Features: Setting up a projector can be a real pain the behind. But this one was really quite easy. Why? A motorized lens. It makes all the difference. No longer do you have to stand on your couch to adjust the focus on the lens. You can do it from the comfort of the couch. Also, if you want a larger screen, you just hit a button and it gets bigger! Great invention. The remote has a back light, and works good. No complaints.

Connectivity: NO DIGITAL INPUT OPTION! 1 Component Video, 1 VGA, 1 Svideo. This could definitely be better. DVI or HDMI would be REALLY nice. But no dice. The USB Cable is GREAT for calibration. It also has a DB9 for RS232 control (home automation stuff).

I am using a Denon Progressive scan DVD, and a Comcast HDTV DVR. Both connected with high quality Liberty Wire Z500 THX Certified component video cables. I suggest getting nice cables with this unit as small imperfections become VERY LARGE imperfections on this large screen.

Bottom Line: If you have been waiting for prices to drop on projectors, now is the time. 3 years ago a projector with these specs would have set you back AT LEAST $5000. This projector supports a native 720p signal, that is all you need looking forward. Buy it, and be happy.