I figured there's better stuff out there now... my Sharp XVZ2000U is a 720p/1080i projector.

Sorry for the naievity, but 1080p is the tops right now, correct? Is there anything better coming out in the near future? Have they actually come out with 1080p projectors yet?

I've got a controlled lighting HT "dark room" and am using a Stewart FireFox screen.

I think I paid something like $3800 for the Sharp Projector.... oh, and I'm still on the original lamp with over 2000 hours of run time.

What's the hot projector out there now for under $5000?

Under $5K is a sweet spot right now at 1080p...you have tons of options ranging from DLP to LCOS to even LCD. You'll have some GREAT options. None are perfect, but you'll be amazed at how far things have come in just three years.

Projectorreviews.com has a nice rundown of the current 1080p offerings from March...I don't think a ton has happened since then. Its broken down by price so you can take a look at the 3500-10K bracket and cut as necessary...it'll at least get you started:
http://www.projectorreviews.com/Best1080pProjectors032008/index.php

I figured there's better stuff out there now... my Sharp XVZ2000U is a 720p/1080i projector.

Sorry for the naievity, but 1080p is the tops right now, correct? Is there anything better coming out in the near future? Have they actually come out with 1080p projectors yet?

I've got a controlled lighting HT "dark room" and am using a Stewart FireFox screen.

I think I paid something like $3800 for the Sharp Projector.... oh, and I'm still on the original lamp with over 2000 hours of run time.

What's the hot projector out there now for under $5000?

I did some pro tuning work on the Z2000 you might try. To get a flat D65k and 2.2 gamma I just had to move the red slider to 3 and had to use Standard gamma a the plus 3 number. That's for DVI 720p.

A little late on my reply.

I think I'd suggest staying with the one you have. Those are darn nice projectors in my opinion.