Jim Cate
05-17-09, 02:32 PM
I'm considering the Sanyo Z3000 and the Panasonic AE3000 for a HT room that can be made pretty dark (totally dark at night if desired). This would replace a Sanyo Z3 (720p) that I have used for about three years, so I am somewhat familiar with some of the issues involved in using a front projector. I would be watching TV via a DISH HD receiver and an OTA antenna, and Blu-rays using a new Oppo 83 BD player. Before I send in an order for one of these projectors, or perhaps something else, perhaps someone can shed some light on the following.
Because of my good experience with the Sanyo Z3, I'm leaning toward the Z3000. I have used my Z3 regularly (usually every night for several hours of TV and standard DVDs). After three years, the bulb still seems to be good. (In fact, the unit came with a replacement bulb which I still haven't used). It's plenty bright enough for my room (using a 92-inch pulldown screen). I also like the automatic "door-closer" that protects the lens from dust when the unit is shut off, and I haven't noticed any internal dust problems. Other factors favoring the Sanyos include their longer warranty, and lower price.
On the other hand, from some of the discussions and reviews, it seems to me that the AE3000 may have a somewhat brighter and better picture in some respects, and somewhat better control of "jitter"?, Also, I generally have more confidence in the quality of Panasonic units than in Sanyo (if it hadn't been for my good experience with the Z3). I probably won't get into installing a 2.35 screen. However, I note that the AVS Sanyo Z3000 discussion section has much less activity than the two Panny AE3000 sections. In fact, it's almost dead. - Is this because the Z3000 isn't selling well? If so, is there a possibility the current economic slump may be affecting them, or that future production is in question?
More basic questions: For those who have stepped up from a 720p projector to a 1080p, did you find the improved picture worth the investment? Would I get improved brightness in addition to greater resolution? Any thoughts on expected bulb life, and bulb prices, with these two units? Also, is this a good time to buy? - For example, are major improvements anticipated in new models later this year?
Thanks for any suggestions or advice.
Jim
Because of my good experience with the Sanyo Z3, I'm leaning toward the Z3000. I have used my Z3 regularly (usually every night for several hours of TV and standard DVDs). After three years, the bulb still seems to be good. (In fact, the unit came with a replacement bulb which I still haven't used). It's plenty bright enough for my room (using a 92-inch pulldown screen). I also like the automatic "door-closer" that protects the lens from dust when the unit is shut off, and I haven't noticed any internal dust problems. Other factors favoring the Sanyos include their longer warranty, and lower price.
On the other hand, from some of the discussions and reviews, it seems to me that the AE3000 may have a somewhat brighter and better picture in some respects, and somewhat better control of "jitter"?, Also, I generally have more confidence in the quality of Panasonic units than in Sanyo (if it hadn't been for my good experience with the Z3). I probably won't get into installing a 2.35 screen. However, I note that the AVS Sanyo Z3000 discussion section has much less activity than the two Panny AE3000 sections. In fact, it's almost dead. - Is this because the Z3000 isn't selling well? If so, is there a possibility the current economic slump may be affecting them, or that future production is in question?
More basic questions: For those who have stepped up from a 720p projector to a 1080p, did you find the improved picture worth the investment? Would I get improved brightness in addition to greater resolution? Any thoughts on expected bulb life, and bulb prices, with these two units? Also, is this a good time to buy? - For example, are major improvements anticipated in new models later this year?
Thanks for any suggestions or advice.
Jim