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.

$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)?

Yes, It's that much better. head over to projectorcentral and check out some ratings a reviews.

If you do not want to spend more than $800 and can handle the fixed offset, I would look at the Sharp DT-510. It is a DLP projector. The W5000 is a very nice projector and $1,300 is a great price if you can afford it.

Where is the Benq w500 for $1300? I know that Benq had refurbs in that price range a couple weeks back, but not for a while.

Where is the Benq w500 for $1300? I know that Benq had refurbs in that price range a couple weeks back, but not for a while.

The refurbs are still available, it just says backorder on the page if you go under clearance section in the benq store. You can still order them.

Also be careful that this is the right projector for you seeing as how its has quite a long throw, depending on the size screen you want and the size of your room. Placement is rather limited for my particular room due to the longer throw, which is what detered me from purchasing this particular projector.

I heard about the refurb deal on the Benq a few weeks back and took the opportunity to sit down with one compliments of a good friend. I have to say that the sharpness on it was simply amazing. Unfortunately it was also one with the 'image noise issue' that they talk about in the owners thread and was occasionally visible. My understanding is that the latest firmware satisfactorily corrects this, but to be honest even with it there it wasn't overly objectionable. If the refurbs they're selling have been upgraded I would jump all over this at $1300.