I am not new to hdtv but new to projection. I am debating between the two I orignial looked at the optima hd20 but exed that one after reading more. Now am between this two projections and wanted someone's opinion why one over the other?

So far the 4000 is in a bit higher league than the 8100 in areas like blk and features. There is a 500 dollr price difference as well. For the money the 8100 is super. I am considering it myself as the 4000 is out of budget. Mounting flexibility are great for both. I suppose the 8100 would handle ambient light situations a bit better based on brightness numbers...If you are like me and watch mostly...I mean 98% of the time...at night, then the 8100 would be more than enough for most people. I have a Vizio 50" plaz...love it. But it is probably a 3.5 star out of 5...overall when compared to panny and pioneers. It looks great in my bedroom. If I can get a 90" or 100" image that is a solid 3.5/4 stars out of 5...then I'm thrilled. I'm sure any of these two units are 4 out of 5 stars overall all day.

Your asking to compare a Toyota Corolla with a Honda Accord. They are in different classes.

The Panasonic will throw a niced picture and has many more features. However, if you are looking for a good bright image (important if you have ambient light) and won't use the extra features, then the 8100 might suit you better.

Thanks for the advice guys on my way to Best Buy now to buy the 8100 and give it a go got to argue the $1799 price they have over msrp won't happen :)