So, basically I'm looking at getting a Sony Cieza HS51a projector for $800. I saw a BenQ W5000 projector for $1300. Is it that much better than the HS51a projector? If it is, is there anything else within my range that would beat it or is the BenQ the best? Thanks.

Generally the BenQ is a better projector...I also assume this is your general budget? There are obviously used, but there may be new options to consider (Panasonic AX200 for instance)...you are probably better in the sub $3k forum though...lots more information there.

Yes, $800 is my real budget but I if the BenQ at $1300 is the best way to spend my money and is the best value, I can try to find some way to make up the $500. Would you say the BenQ crushes the Sony VPL-HS51a projector (not the HS51)?

Any mods can move this thread to the appropriate section if necessary. I just thought that since both projectors in question retail for over $5k that this is the right place.

Yes, $800 is my real budget but I if the BenQ at $1300 is the best way to spend my money and is the best value, I can try to find some way to make up the $500. Would you say the BenQ crushes the Sony VPL-HS51a projector (not the HS51)?

Overall yes, the BenQ is much better. The only thing you would have to make sure of is that you are not sensitive to rainbows.

Is there an online test that I can play on my CRT screen to see if I am affected by the rainbow effect? Or do I have to find somewhere that has a DLP projector?

DLP projector (or RPTV which you should be able to find at BestBuy type places).

Is there an online test that I can play on my CRT screen to see if I am affected by the rainbow effect? Or do I have to find somewhere that has a DLP projector?
There is an online test. I came across a link to one in a post in AVS forum some time ago. It did show me rainbows, but I still don't notice them when watching TV or movies on single-chip DLP projectors, so I don't recommend letting the online test discourage you.

I had an interesting experience with rainbows recently. A forum member was showing me his SIM2 HT380, which is a single-chip DLP projector, and he put on a test grid with green lines on a black background. I could see the strobing effect of the projector on the grid clearly. I mentioned that, after which the owner of the HT380 said the strobing effect shows up easily on a black background. I did not see rainbows at any other time that day, only on the green on black grid. That was the only time I have seen rainbows on a projected image, and that's after owning two single-chip DLPs.