Well I must admit, apart from bulb longevity issues, the Sanyo service people are pretty good. Too bad the Canadian price for the Z3 is higher than the Z2 was when it came out. I wish it was a tad lower, especially seeing as how the Canuck dollar is quite high now vs the US $.

hi everyone

i have ordered the panny 700 but i am able to get the SANYO Z3 for about the same price what to you guys think of the sanyo vs the panny, i know this is a stupid question to ask in the sanyo forum but i hope for some objective answers.

also i am only able to change my order if i do it quickly so that i don't have to wait for the projector again, please post your opinions about the panny vs Z3.

i am interested in punch and depth of the picture.

thanks in advance:D

Originally posted by ZoomAir
hi everyone

i have ordered the panny 700 but i am able to get the SANYO Z3 for about the same price what to you guys think of the sanyo vs the panny, .....

i am interested in punch and depth of the picture.

thanks in advance:D

Is there no way to see these machines prior to purchase as that I'm afraid is the best way to make a decision.
I do sympathize with those who must purchase sight unseen.

ted

TvTed are you making a move on a Z3 or AE700? I've forgotten your situation :D

One thing that I like about the Z3 is no smooth screen. Both Z1's I saw were smooth as silk, and I felt no need to do more than a slight defocus.

Originally posted by cpc
TvTed are you making a move on a Z3 or AE700? I've forgotten your situation :D

One thing that I like about the Z3 is no smooth screen. Both Z1's I saw were smooth as silk, and I felt no need to do more than a slight defocus.

Since they ain't available in these here parts (as you well know) I might hold until I can see the HS51 and do the defocus thing.

ted

Originally posted by tvted
Is there no way to see these machines prior to purchase as that I'm afraid is the best way to make a decision.
I do sympathize with those who must purchase sight unseen.

ted

hi tvted thanks for your reply, i have seen the Z3 and it looked great but i haven't seen the panny 700 (i didn't find a store that had it in gothenburg) but i decided on the panny after reading some reviews and forums but now i don't now if i should switch, so any opinions would be helpful. basically which of theses two have best punch and depth in the picture. if i choose the Z3 i get a free filter tuning from cine4home, if i take the panny the tuning costs $70-80 but i dont know if the tuning is such a big deal. i have also ordered the panny -s97 hdmi dvd and i read on some swedish forums that people were having problems with 720p on there Z3.

any opinions or toughts would be helpful, so that i can deside between these two:p

THANKS IN ADVANCE:D

I think the tuning is a big deal. It should improve your contrast significantly and make black levels look blacker while retaining shadow detail.

If I could, I'd get a PJ calibrated by cine4home. I'm just thinking there must be a way to do it myself.

Originally posted by Frichard
WOW,

I just finish tweaking my Z3. It's just a first draft but my god the picture is really far from my expectation. It was Really good before but now it's incredible. There is a setting call Contrast enhancement that really pop out the picture.

I'm so happy with my purchase. Woohoo:D

I can't wait to finish my Home Theater.

By the way the PJ is incredibly silent. Ive been tweaking for one hour and the heating system makes more noise then the Z3.

Well I'm happy:p

Thanks

Fred

Be careful with that contrast enhancement - it looks like it clips the bottom end - so you will get more punch at the expense of shadow detail.

Originally posted by ZoomAir
... if i choose the Z3 i get a free filter tuning from cine4home, if i take the panny the tuning costs $70-80 but i don't know if the tuning is such a big deal.

Be aware of what is happening here. An increase from 1K to 2K repesents a 100 % increase in contrast (in photographic terms this represents 1Fstop) and as others (DarinP2 in particular) have noted here this should be a notable increase in CR. Now going from 2K to 3K is now only a 50% increase (or 1/2 a F stop) not necessarily as notable - though probably worthwhile nonetheless. So if it were me deciding, I would definitely choose the calibration. In fact that has been my plan with any PJ I might purchase - I've the good fortune of having ready access to most of the tools I need, plus for me this represents time well wasted.


i have also ordered the panny -s97 hdmi dvd and i read on some swedish forums that people were having problems with 720p on there Z3.
THANKS IN ADVANCE:D

If I were buying a new player, I would buy an upscaling unit - as to whether this is going to increase your PQ greatly - don't know - do remember the PJ has an inbuilt scaler that scales all inputs to its native panel resolution (unless bypassed) so it would be the quality of the scaler in the player vs that of the PJ. A good player does of course have many other features that might be desirable.

If my CR mumblings above are muddy the do some searches in the PJ forums.

good luck on your decision,
ted

hi tvted

thanks for that great post, i will now order the PJ with the cine4home calibration.

may i ask what you think of the decision between the Z3 and the panny. this is my first projector and i have tested the Z3 but not the panny. i have now ordered the panny but i can switch if i hurry. the Z3 will cost me about $80 more(both calibrated).

so i would appreciate any opinions about this choice of PJ:s (i have read all about VB/FPN and SDE etc. but what i am interested in is simply punch and depth and which of these PJ:s offer the best punch and depth) according to cine4home calibration of the two the Z3 reached about 1500:1 calibrated versus the panny about 2000:1

THANKS AGAIN FOR ALL YOUR GREAT REPLIES:D

Originally posted by ROne
Be careful with that contrast enhancement - it looks like it clips the bottom end - so you will get more punch at the expense of shadow detail.

Well I got the inverse situation in my case. The shadow detail is way better with the contrast enhancement on. Without it, when I calibrated it for best shadow detail the image looked washout. I will give you my setting later if you want but right now I got nowhere to project my picture.:mad:

I just sand on my Home theater and the PJ is out of the room. I need to clear out all this dust before tweaking again.

Thanks

Fred

Originally posted by ZoomAir
hi tvted

may i ask what you think of the decision between the Z3 and the panny. this is my first projector and i have tested the Z3 but not the panny. i have now ordered the panny but i can switch if i hurry. the Z3 will cost me about $80 more(both calibrated).


I must say I would not recommend one over the other even if I had seen both of these units which I have not. Fortunately for you they are both in the same class, share the same panels, and offer many of the same features.

As you've garnered by now much of this is subjective even after all calibrations have been matched. One person might prefer one image wherein another might prefer something else. I do not believe you will go wrong with either unit and I suspect their PQ is quite similar. I would have my reasons for choosing one over the other and you have to decide which are yours.

All I can say is you continue to read what you can - here and on other sites - and weigh the issues. If possible I would determine if it will be possible to swap machines if you are not satisfied with what you have.

Sorry I can't be more definitive than that.

ted
I musn't take this seriously, I musn't...

hi tvted

thanks again for that great post. so they really are similar in PQ, so i think i should go with the company that offers best warranty's etc. the things that speak for the Z3 is the lack of VB and that you can clean the panels from dust yourself but i don't know how big of a deal dust is on the panny.

thanks again for your quick replies, (as this is my first projectors my questions may seem a little dumb:p)

Originally posted by zAndy12
'It has a serious issue on the HDMI inputs when playing 720p. The issue is...it won't play 720p on the HDMI inputs'

And where did you hear that... mine's playing 720p on the HDMI input just fine thanks

Andy


Andy, I heard it in my own home theatre whilst attempting to get my new Z3 to work with HDMI. In fact, it won't play any resolution of HDMI input.
This issue has been reported by many in another thread.

I am happy you are not experiencing any problems, your comments about picture quality with the new Z3 are right on the money.

Using the component inputs I can see that the Z3 is an amazing advancement in PQ. If we get the bugs sorted out, I will be a happy Z3 owner. I am keeping my Z2 as a backup.

ok ... I just went through this WHOLE thread and can't find what I am looking for.

Anyone have a link or can email me the users guide for the Z3?

So is there a major glitch with the Z3 that stands out among owners?

Originally posted by cpc
So is there a major glitch with the Z3 that stands out among owners?

I'm not an owner (yet?) but the only thing I still have to come to terms with is the shorter throw or limited zoom.

The Panasonic 700 is starting to scare me.

I thought there was some weird 1280 x 720 resolution problem for the Z3. Sounds crazy, as that is the panel resolution. I want to like the Z3 but bulb life is a problem.

I am trying to set-up my Z3 in 1280x720 via RGB cable. I have it working in HDMI, but have experienced the "Predator look" -- but that's a whole different problem. My problem is this: I set the PC to 1280x720 resolution, but what I get is a 800x600 screen that kind of pans & scans the 1280x720 screen. The screen is bigger than what is displayed, and bringing the mouse to the edges scrolls to the offscreen parts. I played with Powerstrip a little with no success. How do I get a straight 1280x720 screen via RGB?

-Carmine

Originally posted by CarmineMac
I am trying to set-up my Z3 in 1280x720 via RGB cable. I have it working in HDMI, but have experienced the "Predator look" -- but that's a whole different problem. My problem is this: I set the PC to 1280x720 resolution, but what I get is a 800x600 screen that kind of pans & scans the 1280x720 screen. The screen is bigger than what is displayed, and bringing the mouse to the edges scrolls to the offscreen parts. I played with Powerstrip a little with no success. How do I get a straight 1280x720 screen via RGB?

-Carmine

You need your 1280x720 to be at 60 Hertz or otherwise the projector won't take your resolution.

Originally posted by cpc

I thought there was some weird 1280 x 720 resolution problem for the Z3. Sounds crazy, as that is the panel resolution. I want to like the Z3 but bulb life is a problem.

I think that there is a probleme only with the HDMI at 1280 x 720 but a firmware update should fix this.
I run component at 1280 x 720 and all is fine. I also run with VGA and it run's well also.

Thanks

There is one thing for sure - the Z3 doesn't like high refresh rates ... not checked what the spec is. But i put in 85hz by accident last night and it went all predator on the VGA!

Originally posted by ROne
There is one thing for sure - the Z3 doesn't like high refresh rates ... not checked what the spec is. But i put in 85hz by accident last night and it went all predator on the VGA!

Doesn't all LCD run at 60 Hertz ?

Thanks

Fred

Well there was the logic that the actual panel may run at 60hz but certainly they are capable of taking different scanning rates, I suppose it what it does with them that counts.

Hi all, new to the board.

I have a Z3 on the way, and I've been reading up on this forum and others. I'm installing it ceiling-mounted in a room that has low ambient light but light colored walls. The room is about 16.5' long and 12.5' wide, the screen will go on the far 12' wall. The room opens without a door to the rest of the basement (also low ambient light), so it will be possible to view the screen from up to 28' away, but that won't happen unless I've got a crowd watching a football game in HD.

I plan on waiting until I get it to buy a screen because I'm not sure with my conditions how close I'll need to mount the PJ to the screen to achieve adequate brightness.

Based on your experience under similar conditions, what is the optimum distance that balances adequate brightness and screen size? If I had my druthers I'd want a 92-100" screen, already plan on using high gain grey.

Anyone heard about any firmware or some other news about the problem with 16 colors "predator look"? I talked to my dealer yesterday and he said that probably there will be some solution next week, he had alot of people that had been telling him about this problem during last week.

i have had the same problem on my z3, got fed up with it in the end and sent it back.. ohh well back to the drawing board. No way i`m going for the ae700 after all the talk of VB so it looks like i`m gonna have to get in line for a sony hs50.. lets hope they arrive soon.

Is it just me or did this Z3 thread die off over a week ago?

I think the Z3 forum did die off. Maybe it is because it really isn't an upgrade from the Z2. They did not do enought to it to make it an upgrade. Maybe if it was brighter, better zoom, and same contrast ratio it would have made a difference. That is why everyone like the ae700, but there is a huge problem with VB. I have seen it and don't like it.

Originally posted by seenalot
I think the Z3 forum did die off. Maybe it is because it really isn't an upgrade from the Z2. They did not do enought to it to make it an upgrade. Maybe if it was brighter, better zoom, and same contrast ratio it would have made a difference. That is why everyone like the ae700, but there is a huge problem with VB. I have seen it and don't like it.

I own both the Z2 and the Z3. The Z3 is a significantly improved projector over the excellent Z2.

I second Ludde.... any solution/firmware to the "predator look"? Maybe the programmers are still on vacation...

I was a Z2 owner and had a VB problem. I sold the machine because of this. I just Purchased an AE700 and I have no VB problem. I wonder if
the VB problem has anything to do with the power supply. I have it on
a surge protector battery back up unit which may clean up the power
supply. It might also be an issue from machine to machine or a cable
problem. I guess I am lucky so far.

Well in your case, did you have the Z2 on the surge protector battery backup unit?

I think the Z3 thread should be made a sticky like the AE700 and HS50(51).

Check out the thread comparing the Z3 and the AE700. Both projectors put through their paces and the Z3 was the preferred projector!!!

Originally posted by enier
I second Ludde.... any solution/firmware to the "predator look"? Maybe the programmers are still on vacation...

According to another thread on this topic there is new firmware available.

I have this issue with my Z3. I am using component connections with excellent results but I do want to go back to the HDMI connections.

It is a PIA that I will have to get the firmware updated. I will probably wait a while to get the latest greatest firmware since there is a three year warranty on the Sanyo.

For all its worth, I found a another review of Z3 and no mention of problems. Looks like "problems" are luck of the draw with these new technologies unless we are the guinea pigs. Check out http://www.hdtvexpert.com/pages/plvz3.htm for details.

How do I see which firmware version I got?

FWIW, I have been in direct communication with the Sanyo Service center in California about the HDMI input sync problem.

Yesterday they told me the engineers acknowledge the problem and are working on it.

If you have any Z3 screenshots, please, please, please, post them here.

Believe me, it really helps the undecided. And email me when you do.

Thanks

Got Z3 connected and loaded. No problems yet (fingers crossed) after watching Finding Nemo (DVD) and Star Trek Enterprise (OTA HD) last night. PQ is sharper using HDMI input @720P although component cable is also good. Brightness is good even with the dimmer 3/4 way up. All setting are factory defualts for now. It is quiet and could not hear it when watching. Having no experience in front projector I say this pj is pretty good. I have to compare it to my friend's Infocus 7205 to see if the $5k difference it worth it.

Source: LG 3510 dvd/hd tuner
Screen: DIY GooSystems Digital Lite 41x86
Room: Light controlled

Only "problem" encountered is the Z3's throw distance. I measured my $20 mount originally for PT-AE700 so it's a little bit far from the screen. But went with Z3 to get the vertical shift I needed w/o going to the extreme. But as I feel now either pj will probably work for me. If you're like me that put a wall switch to turn on/off the power to the pj. Then you can use the large flat rectangular toggle switch and weather proof cover (for external use) that fits the switch to protect it.

Thing that make you Hmmmmm.... I wanted the silver Z3 for better wife acceptance factor. But the dealer said that the dark Z3 is only one available in US and that any silver sold here will not be under warranty. The odd thing is there are 4 manuals in 4 different languages with the unit. Is discrimination on US consumers?... Hmmmmmmmm....

Originally posted by enier
If you're like me that put a wall switch to turn on/off the power to the pj. Then you can use the large flat rectangular toggle switch and weather proof cover (for external use) that fits the switch to protect it.


I am confused about the wall switch you are using. Since you will damage a projector by just cutting the power to turn it off, how does it help you?

Originally posted by leedees
I am confused about the wall switch you are using. Since you will damage a projector by just cutting the power to turn it off, how does it help you?

The wall switch is my defense in case kids try to turn it on by themselves. They're already trying to take over my basement. Also being a short guy, I do not have to keep pulling a chair to reach the Main On/Off switch after it cooled down or when starting it.

Originally posted by enier
The wall switch is my defense in case kids try to turn it on by themselves. They're already trying to take over my basement. Also being a short guy, I do not have to keep pulling a chair to reach the Main On/Off switch after it cooled down or when starting it.

Now I get it. Have fun with the new Z3!

I've had the Z3 for a week now. HDTV got installed Thursday, and I'm still looking for a good DVD for it. No screen yet, this week it arrives along with a ceiling mount.

I'm forced to run component video from the cable box because Comcast uses the Scientific Atlanta DVR box and its HDMI port isn't active yet. With the few HDTV offerings in the Comcast lineup, the Z3 is doing a great job. I've got it placed about nine feet away from the wall in a light controlled area, and in the evening brightness isn't an issue. I get a solid 92" image, excellent color saturation. Contrast will be greatly enhanced when I get the screen I reckon.

The only thing I don't like about it is that all the 'SCREEN' options disappear when you select 1080i or 760p input. All you get is widescreen and 'natural wide' formats. Zoom is disabled as well as 'full through.' I will have to accomplish DVD zoom via the cable box.

I will likely use the HDMI port for DVD. Comcast's box doesn't accommodate anything other than normal video and audio connections. The last few days I've been learning more about what the Comcast box CAN'T do than what the Z3 CAN.

Hey Hamerhokie. Congratulations on your Z3. I don't mean to be a hound here, but can you give me your subjective impression of the PQ (ie contrast, colour, VB and SDE). It's a toss up with the panny for me, and having trouble with my decision. Have you seen the Panny or any other PJ for that matter.

I know I'm not acknowledging your Comcast shortcomings, but frankly I'm not in a position (yet) to comment.

PF

Originally posted by pinkfreud
Hey Hamerhokie. Congratulations on your Z3. I don't mean to be a hound here, but can you give me your subjective impression of the PQ (ie contrast, colour, VB and SDE). It's a toss up with the panny for me, and having trouble with my decision. Have you seen the Panny or any other PJ for that matter.

I know I'm not acknowledging your Comcast shortcomings, but frankly I'm not in a position (yet) to comment.

PF

Two points:

1. Until I get my screen installed I don't think I'll be able to give the Z3 a final assessment.

2. There are ZERO retailers who sell PJs around here so I had to make my decision based on what I could find on the internet. I couldn't compare the Z3 with anything but I wanted to audition the Panasonic.

1. Good scaler
2. Short throw lens
3. Under $2000
4. WXGA
5. No rainbows
6. No VB
7. Good Warranty
8. .....Fill in the blank....

Negatives:

.....fill in the blank....

This cannot become a dead thread, if so, state why.

If you are a Z3 owner are you glad, ecstatic, or depressed?

Whatever your response, say something right now and keep the Z3 thread alive!!!

(For the record, I am just looking for decent screenshots)

This is the best Z3 screenshot I have found:

http://big.chez.tiscali.fr/stolas/Z3/IMG_0186.JPG

Whadya think?

Haha, as you said we are all happy owners and nothing to complain about, that's why nobody is writing anything...
Except that I am still waiting for a new firmware for my "predator" problem with 720P.
Now I am running it with 1080i and I am getting tired of the not clear and small resolution during normal computer work.
How do you want screenshots, taken with a camera or screenshots directly from the computer?

Ludde,

I believe you have tried different cable setups in an attempt to fix your problem?

I had the 'predator' problem and found the DVI switch I was using was the problem. When I bypassed it with a direct connection to the DVD player the Z3 produced a spectacular image via HDMI.

Now my problem is switching between the two HDMI output components that I use.

UPDATE: the Z3 still goes predator and locks up.

CinePost,

I agree with you... And add good V-H shift range to the list. This thread should not be inactive.

I'm enjoying my Z3 and so far no predator or lock up issues in any connection. I see some SDE but I think is due to my DIY screen. I have not really tweak this thing and probably will not until I see another pj. HD football was great and my wife was able to watch the whole game! Had to return hd tuner (LG3510) because it does not lock on to some channels. Probably get the LG4200A instead and fix/change antenna.

WHAT! section: Can you believe CC is charging $125 for a Monster 2M DVI-HDMI cable! And I need 10M!

What is the absolute best screen for the Z3 at any cost?

I am thinking of uprading to a Z3 from a Sharp DT-200.

I am excited about the resolution increase.

I am apprehensive about going from DLP to LCD.

I am mainly concerned about contrast and black level.

How do you think a 2000 to 1 contrast ratio on the Z3 would compare to the 1200 to 1 on my DLP?

Can we expect a price fall for the z3 in the states, in January after christmas? Or does high technology like this dont go under that category?!

Originally posted by CinePost
What is the absolute best screen for the Z3 at any cost?

If you are going with an 80"-92" diagonal screen size I'm convinced the Carada High Contrast screen works perfectly with the Z3. Very satisfying blacks, superior performance in low ambient light conditions and great colors. A very sharp image as well.

I've experimented with other screen materials and I always conclude the Carada High Contrast works best. I've tried to rationalize spending more money but it just doesn't result in a better image.

Originally posted by rayrod79
Can we expect a price fall for the z3 in the states, in January after christmas? Or does high technology like this dont go under that category?!

It's my guess you would have to wait a lot longer than January to see much of a price reduction on the Z3. They are discounted pretty well now. Be sure to call the dealer directly and ask for his best price for an immediate sale.

Where's the exhaust for the Z3? I've got a Z1 and have to replace it because I need to now mount against the back wall and the Z1 exhausts to the rear.

Does the Z3 exhaust on one of the sides or the front?

The exhaust is out the sides so you can mount pretty much against the wall.

Here is a link to the Z3's spec's.

http://www.visualsystemsgroup.com/ProductSupport/PLV-Z3.pdf

Does anybody know if the 3yr Sanyo warranty is tranferable? I am a very very happy Z2 owner and really don't have any reasons to sell it, but based on PC's review, it sounds like there are many improvements over the Z2. I haven't experienced any problems with my Z2, it was pretty good right out of the box. I do have a friend that would purchase mine from me for a good price, as I have very low mileage on mine. I do like the fact that the Z3 has improved blacks and contrast, and the dust removal option is a bonus, although it isn't that hard to blow out your panels with the instuctions on this forum....

So what about the transferable warranty, ya or na?

thanks a bunch, sirquack

Just got my screen up so here is my situation:

Sanyo Z-3, 10' from screen
92" Da-Lite High Contrast Cinema Vision screen
No special room colors - while walls and ceiling, tannish carpet

As others say, the less ambient light the better. PJ is plenty bright under low ambient light conditions.

Contrast needs tweaking. Right now ambient light seems to govern contrast - blacks get no blacker than the apparent color of the screen. So if it looks grey in the ambient light, blacks are grey.

HDTV is my only evaluation source now. NFL looks great. HDTV programming from the networks is OK. I don't think they are spending much $$$ making good HD yet. Last night I watched 'Boston Legal' (or whatever it's called, the one with Shatner) and tried to tweak it with the Z3's various settings, but didn't get a great quality.

Originally posted by Hamerhokie

Contrast needs tweaking. Right now ambient light seems to govern contrast - blacks get no blacker than the apparent color of the screen. So if it looks grey in the ambient light, blacks are grey.

[/B]

Sounds like you definitely need to do some tweaking. My PT-L300u gets pretty black (a lot darker than the screen) and it's not supposed to have contrast nearly as good as the Z3 is supposed to have.

What do you mean darker than the screen?

I was trying to reference Hamerhokie's comment about the blacks not getting "blacker than the apparent color of the screen". It sounds like he is not getting anywhere near blacks, which struck me as odd.

Hey guy's,

What screw size do I need to make a mount for the Z3.

Thanks

Fred

hi everyone

i have jumped on the Z3 train and ordered a cine4home calibrated Z3:D :D , this will be my first PJ so i don't know what to expect i have also ordered two movies to test the projector LOTR ROTK EE and Spiderman 2 SUPERBIT i think these are good movies to test the PJ (have also ordered the panny dvd s97)

:D

Does your Z3 produces a perfectly rectangular image? Without keystone adjustment, the vertical sides are off by 0.375 inches (left=52.375, right =52). The image is basically horizontal aligned at the top and the sides are vertical. Keystone correction does not fix it though. The ceiling shelf is level left to right and front to back give or take a hair. Could this be in need of service? Any ideas are appreciated...

This was not really an issue until I tried DVE. Probably should have just enjoyed it instead of trying to tweaking it.

Have the predator problems been solved yet with new firmware?

If not, is this something we can do at home, or do you have to return it?

Can we expect the new projectors in stores(visualapex) to have a firmware update already?

enier,

.375 is not that much with a 52" high screen, but I'm wondering if your projector is perfectly perpendicular to the wall (left/right not up/down), what if you turn the projector left/right slightly?

Does anyone know what the expected bulb life is on the Z3?

enier, move the pj sideways to the side which is bigger and then use lensshift to move the image back.

Btw, anyone seen predator with the new firmware on 720P?

Hi, New here,
What is the usual and customary position of iris center to screen if projector is perpandicular to screen. I've often heard that the center of iris should be in line with the top line of your screen's viewable area. Same true for Z3?
My Z3's iris will be 6 ft.9 in. off the floor due to a glue-lam beam that comes down approx 12" from ceiling (crosses room right in middle, side to side. The Z3 will be just under the beam with it's mount on opposite side of beam away from screen
My screen will be 100" diagnal. First row seating position is basically directly under beam and therefore the projector. Viewing from approximately 11' back from screen. Any suggestions? Anyone else have their Z3 mounted that low (6'9" from floor to iris)? Ceiling is 8 ft. high except where beam is. Beam is 5.5 inches wide.
This will put my screen bottom (viewable) about 33 or so inches off the floor. Is that OK or considered normal?
I know there are some things in the HT builder forum but I wanted to hear from Z3 owners and how the "throw" and line-up with screen works with it

Everyone still satisfied with their purchase of the Z3 given all of the Panny 700's press?.
I haven't viewed one (Panny 700) but my theater guy (whom I trust) deals both and he said you couldn't give him a 700. He said Z3 or go up to a Benq 8700+ DLP at twice the money as the Z3, but to stay away from the 700. He does sell a lot of the Panny's when he can get them from distributor but he personally does not care for them. It changed my direction to the Z3.
Thanks for any help.

I am in the same situation. I was originally leaning toward the Z3 but now toward the 700. I have seen neither unit so my preference is purely by research. My concern with the Z3 is the companies seemingly admitted problems and firmware fixes... which may be a good thing or they may also be in "patch" damage control mode and not really optimizing the fix. Whenever a company finds a serious problem after shipping it is never fixed properly and usually patched until they can fix it right and release the Z4 next year;) Just my opinion from past experiences.

Regarding your dealer... anyone who says "he said you couldn't give him a 700" usually has me walking away thinking the guy is an idiot... or Bill Gates. Seriously though... it is a stupid comment.

Or maybe a Sanyo share holder...

Thanks for the tip guys. I keep adjusting the feet/lens and forgot about left-right direction of the pj itself. And should have just eyeballed it to begin with instead of using the tape w/c could have save me time. As Confucius says "When the reference line is off then everything will be off". My wall is warped causing my diy screen to warp with it (freaking builders).

So far, I have not seen the predator and no lock up issue on my component & hdmi cables. The alien firmware might be installed in this pj. With DVE I had to adjust he pj's and dvd player's (Pana DVDS97S) brigthness and contrast to get the grayscale I want. Color Temp Low1 seems to be the best with Theater Black mode and very low ambient light.

Thanks again keemozzaabe... On to 9 hours of LOTR....

Well, Maybe my A/V guy is knowledgeable (subjective) about such things and knows his stuff, so he bought Sanyo stock, and still makes the occasional idiotic statement....LOL

Any chance for an answer about the physical location of the Z3's iris to location of screen height position? (even with top of screen, etc)?

Imdok:

Without using the vertical lens shift, the center of the iris projects to the center of the screen. Locating the projector above or below this axis leads to use of the shift, which allows you to move the center of the image 1 screen height above or below the original center. In other words, the projector can be half of a screen height above or below the edge of the screen.

I use the lens shift, and I have seen very liitle (if any) image degradation, although it may be what's behind a slight geometry problem that I am having. It's nothing that the black frame on my screen can't hide, however.

Imdok:

I believe the top of my screen is about 2" above the iris level. This is one reason I went with the Z3. With the Z3, I will not get close to the extreme end of the vertical shift as compared to say the AE700U. I have a 7.8' ceiling with an 10" airduct perdendicular to the screen. The pj is about 6.25 from the floor. I see no problem except the for a tall guy who could see the screen to be too low. For us we don't have to look up the screen. My geometry problem was due to pj positioning perpendicular to the screen.

Originally posted by leedees
Ludde,

I believe you have tried different cable setups in an attempt to fix your problem?

I had the 'predator' problem and found the DVI switch I was using was the problem. When I bypassed it with a direct connection to the DVD player the Z3 produced a spectacular image via HDMI.

Now my problem is switching between the two HDMI output components that I use.

The 'predator' problem and attendant lock up have reappeared. It appears intermittently, sometimes it is fine for 4-5 hours. Other times it shows up after 30 minutes.

What a PIA. The service center said to send it in but they haven't responded with a QRP form. Makes me think they don't yet know what to do.

In the UK Sanyo are recalling units to apply a firmware fix. I insisted on mine being replaced with a new projector as there must be damage to the lamp from all the times I had to "pull the plug" to power off after lockups...they agreed and I am to recieve my new projector on Monday. Just hope this one is pixel perfect like that last

These guys here at Sanyo USA don't even acknowledge the lockup problem yet.

Maybe I should give them a phone number for Sanyo UK.

Check this out... I just got an email from Sanyo USA service center. They want to send me an HDMI cable they "know works".

I have sent digital images of the problem and written very detailed and accurate emails describing all the source components, connections, cables etc and this is what they come up with.

My patience is now exhausted. I'm going ballistic.

Keep us updated. I just had my first lockup and I'm very annoyed. The cable may make the problem more likely, but that really isn't relevant. The fact that the machine locks up is a firmware problem. Period.

Originally posted by BH
Keep us updated. I just had my first lockup and I'm very annoyed. The cable may make the problem more likely, but that really isn't relevant. The fact that the machine locks up is a firmware problem. Period.

Intermittent problems are a PITA. The Z3 experienced long NFL game hours yesterday without a problem.

I agree it is a firmware problem.

Please email these guys and tell them about your lockup problem and maybe we'll get some action...

email: drasmussen@sanyo.com
Daniel Rasmussen
Manager / Sr. Technical Support
Presentation Technologies
Sanyo Fisher Company

How do you find out how many hours you have on the bulb on the Z3?

Nevermind I got it. Hold down the power button for 30 seconds. 56 Hours already in just 7 days!!...Yikes, I better slow it down!

Originally posted by BH
Keep us updated. I just had my first lockup and I'm very annoyed. The cable may make the problem more likely, but that really isn't relevant. The fact that the machine locks up is a firmware problem. Period.

I have just recieved new info: Sanyo UK are not fixing the "Predator Look" problem with the new firmware update but only the HDMI lockup problem. I didn't even reliase that they were two separate problems:confused:

Conor

how do you check your firmware version on the Z3

Hello,
I am looking at the z3 and I am trying to figure out how far back I can put the projector in my room. My room is 18 feet long and I am not really restricted to where I can put the unit. Ceiling mount, back wall, maybe even table mount. It would be in a completly light controlled room. I can get it pitch black in the basement.
I am pretty new to this and it looks like projectorcentral has the wrong specs for throw distance? I would like to get the biggest picture possible but I am unclear as to how far back I can or need to put the projector for max screen size, quality.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Originally posted by ZoomAir
how do you check your firmware version on the Z3

Hold down the "select" and "input" buttons on the projector for about 5 seconds.

Originally posted by Italia_NYC
Hold down the "select" and "input" buttons on the projector for about 5 seconds.

THANKS will try tonight

:D

Yo leedees,

Dude, chill out a bit, please.

Being a long time consumer of Sophisticated Electronics, you should now that you are almost guaranteed to have bugs with a first run product that is fitted with new version of firmware.

Maybe you should try and give the technician, who is obviously willing to help you, a chance to exhaust all TS steps. The more doors he can shut on the Equipment Return office, the more chance you have to get a new unit or Firmware.

Working for a company that deals in Consumer Electronics, and seeing how the exchange and return process works, more people complaining is not always key.

All the decisions to recall Firmware or Equipment, that I have witnessed, have been made on the Validity of the cases we see, opposed to the number of cases.

If you can exhaust every possible cause for the problem, then your chance of having the equipment fixed will skyrocket.

Let the technical Dept at Sanyo do their job. Let them decide what needs to be done. After all, you bought their product. I think they would be the best suited to fix the issue.

Just my $.02

Undsioux7 You said the projectorcentral distance calculation is wrong. According to my Z3 manual, it is exactly the same . The only thing the projectorcentral calculator does not do , is show screen size above 150" . According to my manual, Your maximum screen size is 200" at a distance of 20' , It will not focus past that distance or screen size. You can figure 10" of diagonal screen for every foot the lens is from the screen, with the lens at its maximum zoom. If you rotate the lens to its minimum zoom, your maximum screen size is 150" at 19.3' These figures are directly out of my Z3 manual, and I have found them to be very close to what I am getting, within a coulple of inches. As far as the maximum size screen you should go, it is all according to your own taste. I have tried a 150" projection size on white drywall, and I thought It looked very good, but definately needs low levels of ambient light for good contrast.

hi everyone

i have now checked the firmware on my Z3 i got it a week ago and the firmware is 1.01 what does that mean are there any fixes in this version

Originally posted by Irish_Comer
I have just recieved new info: Sanyo UK are not fixing the "Predator Look" problem with the new firmware update but only the HDMI lockup problem. I didn't even reliase that they were two separate problems:confused:

Conor

Every time I get the 'Predator Look' it also locks up. It does seem like they would be related issues but maybe not.

In addition to all the new cable I bought I am also going to invest in a clean power unit (currently only on surge protector) to see if power fluctuations are contributing to the problem.

I just got my Z3 today. So far, I am kind of indifferent. I "ugraded" from a Sharp DT-200 (DLP, 600 lums, 800 X 600, 1200 to 1 CR).

I guess I was hoping that the 2000 to 1 CR on the Z3 would be about the same as 1200 to 1 CR on my DLP. It is not. The DLP has more punch and better blacks.

Obviously, this is a huge upgrade in resolution. Hence, HD programing looks impressive, and that was the only reason I chose to upgrade.

I was torn between getting the Z3 and the Infocus 4805. I think the bottom line is that HD (especially sports) is better on the Z3 while DVD is better on the 4805. I just happen to be one of those 50% HD, 50% DVD guys. I guess I can not have my cake and eat in too......YET.

Oh well, it is a nice machine, and it will have to do until 720p DLP falls into the $2.000 range.

BTW.....how do I find the Vertical Banding tweak?........I am seeing it ever so slightly on blue skys and gray fields. I would like to eliminate it all together if it is possible.

Make sure that you take the time to calibrate your Z3. Use the Theater Black mode on the lamp and adjust the iris all the way down to -63. Both will improve your black levels. Also, set your DVD player for Enhanced Black (0 IRE rather than 7.5 IRE). Then do a thorough calibration with Avia or DVE.

As for the VB adjustment, go to the Panel Adjustment item on the Setting menu. It should be self explanatory.

Thanks for the reply.....BH

I already had calibrated with Avia, and had it in Theater Black mode. I took the iris down all the way, but do not see too much of a difference.

What gamma setting are you fellow owners using?

The best way I can decribe my "indifference" is that I can not seem to tweek it to look like film. I just looks "digital" to me.

anyone know what fixes are in the diffrent firmwares i checked last night and i have version 1.01 what does that mean.

Anyone use a Z3 with full or nearly full horizontal lens shift? Is there a big change in PQ? I may need to mount it WAY to the side due to various constraints.

Obviously less than ideal, but if any one has a Z3 that's not permanently mounted, can you do a quick check? Move the Z3 to the side so it's firing at the side edge of the screen and lens shift it 100% to the side so that it fills the screen. Is it an acceptable picture?

TIA,
Wayland

Havent looked through all of these threads.... What are the main few problems with this projector?
I started the AE700 vs SanyoZ3 thread and have a lot of negatives on the AE700 - VB and the need to power off, not leave in standby, some flicker issues, plus loss of lines using the hdmi cable....
What are some of the bad things with the Z3? Im about 50/50 with the 2 now and really cant decide which to get, from what ive read the Z3 has slightly less quality than the AE700, but only when put side to side...

I own a Z3 and have not had any problems to report so far. I am watching HD local channels with an OTA reciever. I also watch dvd through the component inputs. I have read other posts on here of members having problems with the HDMI input. There seems to be a firmware issue and the projector not being able to recognize or maybe sinc with the HDMI input. Huey, a fellow avs member, is going to bring his Zenith 318 and his NEO player to my house to try the HDMI input, and compare the difference between 1080i thru component vs 1080i thru HDMI vs 480p( my cheapie toshiba player ) thru component inputs. I am very happy with my Z3, but I have not seen the 700 to compare it to my Z3.

rhwimmers,

I have a Z3 with Panny S97 dvd player and have no problem with it so far. Next will be a OTA HD rcvr before the superbowl. I was fence sitting before I but plunge anyway because I realized I could be enjoying it instead of reading about it. I believe either unit is good unless one has a very discerning eye. In my case it boiled down to the need for wider vertical lens shift which the Z3 has. Thus it has advantage in ceiling ang table mounting. The AE700U advantage is in rear wall mounting and throw distance. If you have no mounting issues then I just wasted 5 minutes typing. Sorry I can't be of help.

rhwimmers,

I sided with the 700U in the beginning, but now I am for the Sanyo Z3. I have had no issues with the Z3, but have had many with the 700U. I see VB big time and everything is too green. The Z3 I would say is better. I think Sanyo is too honest with the specs. I think it should be better than the 700U.

rhwimmers,

I was using the bravo d2 dvd player on both units, or should I say one unit. It worked great with the Z3 and the panasonic kept on flashing the picture. It does the same thing with my PC. My friend also has the panny and he has the same problem. We both have bravo d2 dvd players and fujitsu notebook pcs.

audsyn,

As long as the center of the lens is within the screen you can get a perfect square picture. I have tried it myself. So don't worry about it.

Good to know, Seenalot. Thanks.

Originally posted by cobra1993ky
I own a Z3 and have not had any problems to report so far. I am watching HD local channels with an OTA reciever. I also watch dvd through the component inputs. I have read other posts on here of members having problems with the HDMI input. There seems to be a firmware issue and the projector not being able to recognize or maybe sinc with the HDMI input. Huey, a fellow avs member, is going to bring his Zenith 318 and his NEO player to my house to try the HDMI input, and compare the difference between 1080i thru component vs 1080i thru HDMI vs 480p( my cheapie toshiba player ) thru component inputs. I am very happy with my Z3, but I have not seen the 700 to compare it to my Z3.
I don't know if I'm the only one in all the world but my Z3 has a big problem: if you watch these 2 links you can see how my prj display the borders...
but is still arrived (yesterday) and maybe could be a bad unit. There is also the VB problem that is visible (in my unit) and Panel Setup seems to be not useful for solve it. Last thing: HDMI image isn't good and sharp as I expected but can be a firmware problem (I hope)

sorry but I have posted only 4 message and so I can't add links...

but now I can:
http://fdistasio.altervista.org/BordiZ3_2.jpg
http://fdistasio.altervista.org/BordiZ3_1.jpg

Originally posted by leedees
Intermittent problems are a PITA. The Z3 experienced long NFL game hours yesterday without a problem.

I agree it is a firmware problem.

Please email these guys and tell them about your lockup problem and maybe we'll get some action...

email: drasmussen@sanyo.com
Daniel Rasmussen
Manager / Sr. Technical Support
Presentation Technologies
Sanyo Fisher Company

As any FYI to all who intend on contacting Mr. Rasmussen; He's an idiot, unprofessional, has no command of the English language and tells everyone who contacts him they are the ONLY person to ever complain about the HDMI lockup issue.


Good Luck.

To all HDMI-users: What setting should I go with, L1 or L2?

L2 increases the shadow detail; I see more things in dark areas. This setting seem to be the natural choice.

L1 decreases the shadow detail, but I believe the darkest part gets darker. But this could be in my head too.

Anyone know for certain how L1 and L2 affects the picture?

PS. If you are using HDMI you have to adjust Overscan to 0 to get 100% sharp image. And dont touch the keystone, it will fock up the 1:1 pixel mapping.

As for contacting Rasmussen re: problems, I too have found him to be dozzy and claims I am the only person to mention this. I recommended he read postings on this forum instead of keeping his head in the sand.

hi everyone

is this a new problem with the Z3:a, se the illustration of the problem.

there a several Z3 owners on the swedish forum with the same reflection, i see the reflection easiest in the beginning of a DVD with the warning text i clearly see a reflection i the top right corner. apparently you ca use the lensshift to move this reflection outside the screen but does anyone else with the Z3 have the same reflections.

illustration of the reflection (http://www.prisjakt.nu/forum/index.php?showtopic=81927)

Can you please traslate in English the problem? In the picture you linked I can't see nothing strange..

Originally posted by fdistasio
Can you please traslate in English the problem? In the picture you linked I can't see nothing strange..

increase the brightness of your screen and you should se the reflection in the illustraded picture.

Ohhhh nooooo.....:eek: I'll check for reflections next time....

I've testes my Z3 but I se no reflection :p
Maybe who see reflections has added lens on z3 (a ND2 or a color filter for tuning like homecinema.de tuning with orange filter)

ahh i have a cine4home tuned Z3 could the filter casuse these reflections, but there are others on the swedeish forum without a filter and still reflections.

remember that the reflectiions may be outside your screen beacuse when you use the lensshift the reflections move.

Can anyone recommend a DVD player for the Z3? I was going to post in the DVD forum but thought I would get better suggestions here.

BTW, AVS seems to be especially quiet today . . . must be the Rose Bowl. :) Go Blue!

I am using the Zeninth 318, and upconverting to 720p through the component inputs........very pleased with the result.

Have you tried a DVI-->HDMI connection with the 318 and Z3? Is there a reason why you are using component?

Have you tried a DVI-->HDMI connection with the 318 and Z3? Is there a reason why you are using component?

I have not. I use the HDMI for my HD box (which I have had none of the "predator look" problems that I have read about in this thread ...btw).

Just for kicks, I tried something tonight. I have my PC hooked up though an X-card via component as well. I watched some clips of DVDs at 480i and was very impressed with the PQ. I have read that the Z3 has an excellent scaler and it seems to be the case. I could not see any difference between dvd at 480i and and 720p (or 480p and 1080i for that matter)....and I do consider myself a fairly critical viewer.

Makes sense. Can't forget about the HDTV viewing. :) One feature that I like about the Z3 is that it has 2 component inputs along with the HDMI. Seems like that would come in handy.

Originally posted by pjgirl
Can anyone recommend a DVD player for the Z3? I was going to post in the DVD forum but thought I would get better suggestions here.

BTW, AVS seems to be especially quiet today . . . must be the Rose Bowl. :) Go Blue!

I am wondering the same thing. I had some gift certificates to Best Buy and they were carrying three upconverting DVD players with HDMI connections. I opted for the LG. I can't get it to work with HDMI - every few seconds the screen hiccups by going blank. I don't know if it's the DVD or the PJ.

Have you tried using component yet? You may be better off saving your HDMI port for HDTV.

i am using a panasonic dvd-s97 with HDMI and i think that the s97 is the best price/performance dvd right now.

BTW does anyone have these reflections i mentioned on the previous page.

I’m looking at the Z3 for my HT system. Would using a Lumagen VisionProHDP, or similar video processors, with HD Sat box tied to it as well as a DVI output DVD player and then connected to projector with DVI yield noticeable results vs component hookups?

I just made another interesting discovery. My Z3 scales 1080i much better than my HD box (Dish 6000) does. I thought HD looked just a bit soft. Well, I changed the box to ouput 1080i instead of 720p and WOW!!!!

Originally posted by pjgirl
Have you tried using component yet? You may be better off saving your HDMI port for HDTV.

Yes, I started out using the component video option. It looks fine but the LG doesn't perform scaling unless you are using the HDMI. If that is to be the case, I don't need a scaling DVD at all and will have to settle for a good quality progressive scan DVD, which, incidentally, can't really be found at Best Buy. Nothing there over $250 it seems.

As for HDTV, I have to get an HDMI to DVI adapter to use it with my Comcast set top box. I was going to do that anyway to troubleshoot the DVD.

I have the Panny S97 connected thru HDMI and outputing 720p. I have not problems but I had to adjust the black level of the player. My wife and I thought HDMI had a sharper image than component so I kept it and used component as rcvr monitor output. Never critically looked at 1080i but I will try it to see if I can see a difference.

I also checked out the Toshiba and LG (dvd/hd tuner) from CC. The Toshiba feels flimsy and 3rd rate so I did not bother to try it. I bought and returned the LG dvd/tuner combo because the tuner would not lock on to MNF. It's actually not bad and it saves 1 shelf space. The problem is my attic antenna which I have to move outside for better reception.

Hi,

I bought Z2 last year. The biggest problem is that I couldn't make fully video adjustment if input is DVI (color and tint function are disabled). I have to use VGA input which it's not bad. I wonder is Z3 different with Z2 over this regard?

Xiaoyu,

The color and tint functions are disabled on HDMI for the Z3 as well (and VGA as well) However, you can adjust red, blue and green (color, gain, offset and gamma) individually.

It is a tweekers nightmare, or paradise (depending on your perspective...:) )

With some work I have both my inputs looking good. The HDMI connection was way too green out of the box, and the VGA was way too saturated.

Hi jefe,

I have fully control if I set Z2 on RGB (analog), but not RGB (PC Digital). You said: "....(and VGA as well)". Did you mean VGA (pc digital)?

xiayu,

Unlike the Z2, the Z3 has an HDMI and a 15 pin VGA input that is analog only.

Jeff,
I don't understand your last post. I thought HDMI was always digital like DVI-D ? I haven't gotten my Z3 yet (it's on its' way) so I'm really curious as to your last post about HDMI being an analog input on Z3.
Thanks.

Jefe...(Jeff (SP)......Sorry

Imdok,

Sorry for the confusion. I just meant that the 15 pin input was analog only.
The HDMI is most certainly digital only.

Ignore my last posts...I just woke up (literally).

Jefe, After rereading your post, I now understand that you meant the 15 pin VGA is analog only. If you read that one sentence out of context to the preceding posts, it could be construed that you meant HDMI and 15 pin VGA are analog only.

any canadians pick up the z3 yet and from where.one other question has anyone compared the black level of the z3 to the panasonic ae700.

Hey Pwor. I have not picked it up yet, but have seen both Z3 and 700. The panny had a better image imho in that it was smoother with no SDE. I've demoed three separate units, with the first 2 with lots of VB while the third had none and was very nice.

The only z3 i demoed had very little VB but looked more diggital, I'd say the blacks were not as black.

In terms of dealers, I'd suggest going to on-line dealers. If you go to projector central and punch up either unit, then click on dealers (specify canada) you should get some choices. As well, here in AVS market place there's one or two on-line dealers listed.

You can PM me, and when I have the chance I'll give you all the contacts I've accumulated thus far.

PF

All 700 owners will say the 700 is a bit better, and all Z3 will say the Z3 is a bit better. So its kinda useless asking here, since the brand that sells most will look best on this forum. :)

I seen the 700 in demo. Looks great. Though, I saw the VB.
I read on several forums..... and then went for the Z3, without seeing it.

Am happy? Heck yes! But it looks like the 700 in my opinion. There is no huge differences. The only difference I can tell without blinking is: SDE is more noticeable on the Z3 and the Z3 is muuuuch more silent than the 700.

I ordered a Z3 back in November and received it the next day -- I've been in "home theatre heaven" ever since!! This was my first foray into the world of front projection, but I've been very happy with the unit. In the "tweaking" stage right now, but I can't say that the VB is bothersome -- in fact I didn't really notice it until I started looking for it after seeing all the angst in the forums about it (lol!)...and now I can always see it but I consider it minimal...

I purchased my unit from QuebecAcoustics, online which was great -- saved me the PST and had my unit while most were still trying to source one...

Cheers!

Having never logged on to the forum before, I find it interesting people waste time with worthless babble. I question if this is a real source of info or purely a site for people who have no life.

What I want to know is what is the main differences between the Z2 and the Z3 beyond the display and the contrast ratio. Is it worth the difference in price to consider the Z3 compared to the Z2. . . . or is there another unit better suited for a home theatre that meets or exceeds the spec's of these units. . . . thanks.

Forgive me. Now I see the full thread and understand where to see the information. Please disregard my last note.

deleted...

TVSalesBoy

First impressions are everything. You look great with that foot in your mouth. You need to get out of here and "get a life"......LOL

Only joking (sorta)....Thanks for giving me the opportunity for a sixth reply/post so I'm off of the new subscribers list (;>).

Z3 arrives Monday. Da-lite 100" HCCV Tensioned Cosmopolitan next Friday.
Then I will truly have "no life" until this theater is done...as in work, work, work.

Extracting foot takes required me to bit my tounge. Realized quickly there were greater than 20 pages to the thread. Having not realized that after my first log on and reading only the first page of thread explains my short sided note. . . . thanks for forgiveness.

After reading the threads, I'm more confident the Z3 is the answer with the "swiffer" function of the Z3 as well as better blacks. Any other key elements to consider in my decision which could include other vendor options for a home theatre projector?

Can you tell me what the warranty of the Z3 is.

Thanks.

Originally posted by tvsalesboy
Can you tell me what the warranty of the Z3 is.
[/B]

The waranty is tree years.

Thanks

Fred

OK folks, I've mostly been hanging out in the 'tweaks' thread, but is anyone using a Momitsu V880N with their Z3?

Very curious about results of upconverting to 720 through the DVI but using VGA adapter to go component on the Z3.

Any takers?

Originally posted by enier
I have the Panny S97 connected thru HDMI and outputing 720p. I have not problems but I had to adjust the black level of the player. My wife and I thought HDMI had a sharper image than component so I kept it and used component as rcvr monitor output. Never critically looked at 1080i but I will try it to see if I can see a difference.

I just got rid of the LG and picked up the Panny. I have both HDMI and component connected so I can A/B between the two, and the component is noticably better. Anyone have any idea how to tweak the HDMI connection?

Second question - I am about to give up on my HDMI connection altogether. However, my version of the Z3 does not have two standard component video connections. The second connector is type D4. However I can't find either a D4 cable or, preferably, a component-to-D4 adapter. Anyone know where to find one?

wow, so you prefer the component even though it's not upsampled to 720 like in HDMI? (sorry if I'm misunderstanding that). That really would be a decision changing observation. Like, the available DVD players really opens up given that the Momitsu is basically the only one that will upconvert through component.

As for tweaking HDMI, there's lots of suggestion at the Z3 tweak thread.

Hamerhokie,

1) I think you'll be happier with the Panny. I liked the menu of the LG35010 better but Panny feels better built. Hopefully you can post your observations on Z3+S97 unit. I did use a DVE to adjust both units.

2) I'm pretty sure I have 2 component cable inputs. Interesting that you don't but you can use a component cable monitor output of your pre/pro/rcvr thus only 1 run of component cable to your pj. Try AVS sponsors regarding D4 adapter or even AVS.

I saw a few people asking about this, but don't remember seeing any links. I just found it myself.

Here's a pdf for the owner's manual:
sanyoservice.com/pdf/images/PLVZ3.pdf

Originally posted by enier
Hamerhokie,

2) I'm pretty sure I have 2 component cable inputs. Interesting that you don't but you can use a component cable monitor output of your pre/pro/rcvr thus only 1 run of component cable to your pj. Try AVS sponsors regarding D4 adapter or even AVS.

Not sure I understand what you mean. My DVR is the SA 8000HD. There are no component inputs, and only one set of component outputs. That goes to the projector. There is no component pass through on the DVD. Therefore I need two component lines going to the PJ unless I buy a switcher box.

Comcast offers a cable box with a component input, but it doesn't have a DVR. I'd have to get both, which is an option I guess.

He was actually referring to the fact that you can run multiple component video connections to your home theater receiver and let it provide switching to a single monitor component video output. Many receivers now support two or three component inputs (like the Denon 2805 and 3805).

Thanks BH. That's exactly what I meant. I assumed that a receiver is being used. I also heard receivers with HDMI switching will be coming out this year thus no need to buy hdmi switches. Hopefully they'll won't cost an arm and a leg.

Do you know which receivers that were supposed to come with HDMI switching?

I know Denon for sure and I think Marantz will also. But how fast they can get it to average consumers it the big question.

Check out the Denon flagship receiver @ http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_12_1/show-report-ces-2005-page-1.html

Check out the Marantz flagship receiver @ http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_12_1/show-report-ces-2005-page-3.html

For those particularly who have their Z3 ceiling mounted, do you leave the front lens cover up all the time, or do you put it down after each use? Kind of a pain to have to open and close that thing all the time no?

Mine is open all the time...

Usually open unless I know I would not be using it for a long time (about 3 days or more).

After first, by the book. Closed the cover.

After a week and the newness wore off, I haven't closed it sense then. It's a hassle to close, it may move the projector just slightly, even though my ceiling mount is tightned down completely, and most importantly, I haven't seen any dust floating around at the top of my ceiling.

On an unrelated note, any tweakers out there?! The Panny thread seems to be a million post long, but the Z3 tweak thread is almost not there. I've got good color using HDMI (and the DVE disk), but am having problems getting the greens and reds good using componet.

The z3 manual is pretty slim as it relates to gamma, offset, and some of the advanced settings. I would love to see more discussion of those for us first time projector owners.

By the way...LOVE the projector. After a month, I'm still grinning every time I put a movie in. Should get HDTV this week. Can't wait.

I have a question about the temperature of this projector .

On the PLV-Z1, when you turn off the projector with the remote, it still says very warm/hot to the touch (I measured about 95 - 100 degrees F) . This was confirmed by other PLV-Z1 users and is not just my unit. I found that had a very negative effect on lamp life . I ended up setting up an X10 module so I could cut the power to the projector completely with a remote, which is the only thing that truly allows it to cool down to remote temperature .

I would like to know if the PLV-Z3 still suffers from the same problem . After you turn it off and wait say 1 hr, if you touch it, is it at room temperature, or is it warmer ?

On another note, did anyone upgrade from the Z1 to the Z3 ? I would like to see some comments about that , in particular about lamp life. I have had poor lamp life on my Z1 . One of them only lasted 75 days and less than 300 hrs . I'm on my 4th lamp in 2 years at this time ; however this one has lasted since july when I setup the x10 to cool down the PJ, with no noticeable drop in brightness, even with about 4hrs use . Unfortunately, something caused my PJ to lose all its settings one day, including the lamp counter, so I don't know how many hours it's exactly on now since the last lamp replacement :(

well after seeing 3 different panasonic ae 700`s I'm totally sold on the z3 that i saw.all 3 700`s had really bad vertical banding and none on the z3.plus the z3`s picture was way more sharper the 700, it looked too soft in comparison. plan on picking up the z3 this friday cant wait to join the club.

I am considering this projector, as I just decided to upgrade my viewing environment :D
The other unit I was looking at was the AE700U.

I have a Hitachi 57S700 RPTV @ 8' right now, and was wondering how much better this would look.
I have a little under 13' to play with, as I have a nice long closet behind my sitting wall, I am going to slice a hole in the wall and install a small framed door where the projector will be on a small shelf(in closet), with HTPC on floor in closet also(Wireless KB and Mouse).
The opening in the wall will be exactly in the center across from the screen wall.
Hookups will be very short runs, as I will move Motorola 6200 onto a shelf that I will build.
I went to Proj. central, and determined that I will be able to project app. 97" 16x9 onto my viewing(screen) wall (almost 13').

Do you folks think this will be worth 2 grand? I will be installing the HTPC and doing all of the work myself, which will include making a screen, or painting the wall itself.
Will this be an unbelievable image in HiDef.?
How will it look in SD?

Edit: VD will be approximately 11'

I have complete light control, as this is in a finished basement.

Thanks in advance,

m

HiDef will look unbelievable.

SD will look very good.

You will be unbelievably happy. :-)

TY for the response leedees

I can tell you that the 57S700 looks decent on SD ( decent sd), and looks excellent on HD.

I want a bigger and BETTER picture than that, and I also want the unit to look great when playing games, and/or surfing the web a bit.
I do not play alot of games, or surf the web much on my TV, but if I decide to I want it to look mint.

After more looking around I see that I will need a nice screen, which are actually pretty expensive.....

Proj. central seems to think the Goo CRT white does a fine job, at lower cost.
I like building stuff myself :D

I have a feeling I will be researching the Projector and screen for awhile before I come to any conclusions, but the Z3 is still at the top of my list because of Price/Performance ratio.

The Z3 beats rptv anyday even with a diy screen. Check out the DIY Screen Forum for other varieties that could cost cheaper than Goo. I personally have the Goo Grey Lite and used a roller. I recommend a paint sprayer for better finish. Good luck...

Just finished watching Philly Eagles beat the Vikings at Fox. HD is great but as I surf I found that not all channels are HD. PBS HD is pretty amazing too and I only use a OTA receiver and an attic antenna. Life is good...

I am a VG painter( Alot of experience, I did it for a living unfortunately), and I have ALOT of experience spraying as well, so spraying a wall or perfectly flat substrate( have to look at sizes, as seams are a ng unless fabric is stretched over) will be NP at all.
I feel better now, as I did NOT want to spend a ton on a screen, and after reading alot of the DIY Screens I realize that I will not have to....

And I kinda like that!!

Bring on the Z3 !!!

Originally posted by muzz
After more looking around I see that I will need a nice screen, which are actually pretty expensive.....

Proj. central seems to think the Goo CRT white does a fine job, at lower cost.
I like building stuff myself :D

I have a feeling I will be researching the Projector and screen for awhile before I come to any conclusions, but the Z3 is still at the top of my list because of Price/Performance ratio.


You may want to take a look at the Carada screens. Excellent quality and service with about half the cost of the other screen suppliers.

check them out at www.carada.com

For those who need a roll-up screen, you can get a motorized Da-Lite for around the same price as a fixed Carada.

$600 for a screen?

LMAO...
I don't think so, but thx. for the link.

$600 is one heck of a good price for a motorized screen! The Screen is, to many people, just as important as the Projector. FYI, my Stewart Firehawk was over $2K and worth EVERY penny of it.

If you can DIY, that's great. Just don't undervalue the importance of a good screen. Think of it as buying a nice sports car, but putting the cheapest tires on it that you can find...and running it on the cheapest gas.

Please do not misunderstand me, I appreciated the link to the Carada, and B4 I realized how much these screens cost, Carada was on my list of screens to look into.

I have no need, nor want of a motorized screen, and it sure seems like alot of folks have built great screens, at minimal cost.
From the things I have read, they compare and sometimes even whip a very expensive screen.
I have seen screens with waves and whatnot, and would NOT be able to tolerate a wavey screen that cost a ton of $. Are these screen folks for real?
It just makes no sense to me, as I want a perfectly flat surface ( as close as I can get at least) to project my image onto, and building it myself will allow that to happen.

Thanks for the info folks, I appreciate it, and I do not want this to turn into a screen debate.


m

hi

have anyone tested the Z3 with a panny dvd-a97 through both HDMI and COMPONENT i am using HDMI but i have heard the Z3 is better with COMPONENT does anyone have any thoughts about this and if someone have seen the Z3 with both HDMI and COMPONENT through a dvd-s97 what did you think.

Howdy folks.

I just ordered a Sanyo Z3 to go with my Sony 775 DVD player. Very excited about this.

but I have a couple of setup issues:

The projector will have to be a ceiling mount with approximately 20 feet of cable running through the ceiling and garage (which backs up to where the entertainment center is). A 20 foot component video cable is sort of expensive...is there an alternative?

Also - I have several devices to run to the projector...no way I am going to run 3-4 cables up there...can anyone recommend a good, cheap switching option?

thanks for any input...and thanks to everyone on here for making this forum great & helping me to buy some quality components.

-Stinkmeat

ZoomAir, I use hdmi connection to DVD-S97 right now but I tested both connections before using the LG LST-3510 dvd/hd tuner. I thought that hdmi has better pq and my wife concur.

Stinkmeat, Use the receiver to do component switching. Also, don't buy brand name cables. Instead, use cables from RamElectronics (ramelectronics.net/avs.htm) or BlueJeansCables. They're as good or even better for half the cost.

I continue to be amazed at the fantastic picture quality from the Z3.

(I just felt compelled to say that.) Carry on soldier.

THANKS enier for your reply i think i will stick with HDMI


i watched bad boys 2 (PAL version) and the picture was amazing after that movie i was very pleased with the Z3:a and also impressed with the blacks i must say.

the PAL version of this film has an amazing picture i don't know about the NTSC but this is a great movie for testing the PJ.

does anyone use a gray screen with the Z3 and how is that working, i am thinking of buying one beacuse my room is very bright with bright walls and a white cealing :p

so is the preditor mode bug fixed in the current shipping firmware?

Thanks for the link & recommendation.

Unfortunately my stereo receiver is woefully outdated and does not support any sort of video component switching. It does switch for S-Video I think but I've heard that Svideo gets victimized by long cables... The receiver's main job these days is to amplify the sound from the Sony DVD player.

No HDTV yet...we're only going to really use the system for games (multiple platforms (including an atari - you know you want to see YARS REVENGE on a 100" screen)) and DVD's ... I don't really want to spend a bunch of money on a HT receiver if there is any kind of cheaper option that's still decent for carrying a 720P type signal...

Thanks again for any help.

Originally posted by ZoomAir

does anyone use a gray screen with the Z3 and how is that working, i am thinking of buying one beacuse my room is very bright with bright walls and a white cealing :p

I also have a white ceiling and light colored walls. I use an 80" Carada High Contast Gray screen with excellent results.

Originally posted by leedees
I also have a white ceiling and light colored walls. I use an 80" Carada High Contast Gray screen with excellent results.

I use a grey DaLite screen and it works well, except the blacks don't appear blacker than the screen itself, which varies with ambient light conditions.

Originally posted by leedees
I also have a white ceiling and light colored walls. I use an 80" Carada High Contast Gray screen with excellent results.

I use a grey DaLite screen and it works well, except the blacks don't appear blacker than the screen itself, which varies with ambient light conditions.

Originally posted by Stinkmeat
Also - I have several devices to run to the projector...no way I am going to run 3-4 cables up there...can anyone recommend a good, cheap switching option?



I use a component video switcher. It has four inputs and two outputs. You can assign any of the four inputs to any of the two outputs. In this manner I have one cable running to my projector and the other to a Pyro A/V box for recording on my computer.

OK. I have been trying to figure this out, but I haven't been sucessful yet, so I thought that I would just ask...

What is the "predator problem?"

I use a grey DaLite screen and it works well, except the blacks don't appear blacker than the screen itself, which varies with ambient light conditions.

I'm not sure what you mean here. With front projection, the ideal black is the absence of any projected light, which means black can never be blacker than the screen appears under the current lighting conditions.

Hello everyone.
I am new member and I have some fresh questions to adress.
Have you noticed any firmware upgrade for the Sanyo Z3 ?
I ask you information about this since I face a problem with the HDMI port when I connect it with the PC. I know that it is said that this type of connection is not supported, but I beleave it is possible(look other projectors for example.)

So if anyone knows something about this please do reply.
Thanks alot in advance

Originally posted by nickbuol
OK. I have been trying to figure this out, but I haven't been sucessful yet, so I thought that I would just ask...

What is the "predator problem?"

With a very small number of Z3 projectors it appears to be a problem with signal sync between certain HDMI output devices and the projector.

It is called 'predator' because it suddenly projects a distorted 16 color image similar to the view by the predator monster in the movie Predator. You can search the forum for posted images of the phenomenon.

For those that experience the problem Sanyo has a firmware upgrade to 1.01 that fixes the problem.

ZOOMAIR

I just recently hooked up an ISCAN HD+,(SCALER/SWITCHER), with DVI, to the HDMI input, and the SANYO Z3 has never looked better. You can hook up 1 dvi input, 2 component inputs, 2 SVIDEO inputs, 2 composite. Very versatile unit. You can get the ISCAN thru AVS, and you can check it out, at this site as they are a forum sponsor.

CHEERS, TC

yes there is a film ware update 1.01 it fixed the lock up issue with the hdmi cable but it did not fix the predetor look to my understanding.from reading the treads on the panasonic ae700 and the sony hs 51 also have problems with hdmi input .could be a processor problem.

Originally posted by ay221
How hard is it to remove dust blobs without this new feature? Is it user serviceable, or do you have to take it in for service? Some people report removing their dust blobs rather easily with their Z2's. Myself, I've been duking it out with them. It's like a video game I've never won. I'm definitely contemplating sending it in. Meantime, I suppose, I can get them to update my very early firmware (which I can probably do myself) and maybe give me a better filter - the supplied filter with the Z2 (at least the early ones) is a joke.

Well i had my first hdmi lock up today.had been running a toshiba sd-5970 all weekend with no problems till this afternoon.the unit locked up,giving me the famous predator look.had to turn the unit off by the back power switch.checked the software version and its 1.0. guess ill have to get it flashed by the service department .does anyone know if the dealers have the ability to flash the software or does it have to go to sanyo service.

I sent mine to Sanyo service to get the 1.01 firmware. Took a total of 48 hours and cost me zero.

It appears after one week to have solved the 'predator' problem.

I posted this question in another thread by accident, I deleted that 1 and will ask here:

You have to send the PJ in to Sanyo to upgrade the firmware on this machine?

Am I getting this right, I hope not.

It seems every PJ I am looking at has issues, AE700 with PC's, predator with Z3, seating distance with 4805...

If I have to send it in to a manufacturer to upgrade a FW, I will cross this off the list(already crossed the 4805 due to smaller screen at my viewing distance).
I'm almost being forced to buy the 700 if this is the case, and I'm not liking what I'm reading regarding PC issues and overscan/cropping with ANYTHING using HDMI on that product.

Thanks,

m

i have the 1.01 version and got it when i bought the Z3 i december, so is this the latest firmware or not.

and what is the diffrance between "lock-up" and "predator" dosent both "problems" meen that you have to turn the unit of with the main switch.

I just bought my Z3 for several days. I feel ok for its performance, but there is a big problem that I couldn't find any similar one from known forums.
The problem was discovered in two scenarios:
A. sometimes, when the PJ is turned on by toggling the main power switch at back, I see the red power LED lights up, but I cannot run it on by pressing the power button on the PJ nor from the remote controller.
B. after turning if off by pressing power button twice, and the PJ is cooled down, the power LED goes back to red. For 3 days, when the PJ is left unused over night, I cannot turn it on by pressing the power button. I also tried to do some more test, and I found it cannot be turned on when left unused for over 3 hours or so.

Although everything goes normally if I switch off then on the main power switch at back, I am still very disappointed by this problem. The local dealer said he will help to check with Sanyo Japan but I haven't got any update yet. This Z3 is the last one in his stock so I cannot get replacement immediately.

Is this a particular issue on my machine? If so, I may give Z3 a chance to wait for the replacement. If not, I am thinking of getting another model like AE700....but none of the other PJ has better len shift capability which I need to fit my room...

hercrom, I never heard of that issue with the Z3. It looks like you have a bad unit. Work with your dealer within the return timetable (usually 30 days) and get a replacement. Maybe he can replace it even after 30 days since he has no other and you need the lens shift but don't tell him that.

MAINTENANCE QUESTION? How often do you clean the filters/vents of your Z3? Any rules of thumb here?

enier: Manual says every 100th hour.

I checked my filters at 88 hours. Not a single trace of dust. Hmm.

What celing mounts are you all using for your z3? Links and pics? or just naming the name woudl be great...

And if any of you got them at local stores, can you PM the names of the stores where they were carried, thanks.

Originally posted by Thedarksyde
What celing mounts are you all using for your z3? Links and pics? or just naming the name woudl be great...

And if any of you got them at local stores, can you PM the names of the stores where they were carried, thanks.

Im in the process of building one. Should'nt be too hard and will cost about 25$ Canadian.

Thanks

Originally posted by Frichard
Im in the process of building one. Should'nt be too hard and will cost about 25$ Canadian.

Thanks

Excellent, are you gonna make them to sell? Sell to the US? PM or email me, and Ill be VERY interested, once I get my z3 (2 months, still doing construction on the space...)

Diy ceiling shelf for $20.

Originally posted by Thedarksyde
Excellent, are you gonna make them to sell? Sell to the US? PM or email me, and Ill be VERY interested, once I get my z3 (2 months, still doing construction on the space...)

No sorry, It's not for sell. What I meant is that it's easy to build a mount by yourself. I don't think it's worth to spend hundred of dollars for a mount.

Thanks

Fred

I have a vaulted ceiling so my Z3 has to hang down about 3 feet ... any design ideas for that one?

Well if its not for sale, I shall say...how does one make thier own mount for 25 dollars?

Originally posted by ZoomAir
i have the 1.01 version and got it when i bought the Z3 i december, so is this the latest firmware or not.

and what is the diffrance between "lock-up" and "predator" dosent both "problems" meen that you have to turn the unit of with the main switch.

The solution is the same to these slightly different but related issues.

The 1.01 firmware is the latest. I've had no problems with the HDMI input since this firmware was installed.

Just enjoying my Z3 every single time I use it.

Originally posted by Thedarksyde
Well if its not for sale, I shall say...how does one make thier own mount for 25 dollars?


Look at Monkey_Man's design here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=232749&highlight=MonkeyMan

FYI...the 3 mounting screws needed for a Z3 are 6mm.

Dan

Wow awesome thanks dan, I will attempt this, I am learning new things everyday here, i hope I can build this...not so awesome with the tools...

Killer link. Thank you.

Time for sitdown and go over the plan with the old ball and chain.

Hercom,

I had the exact same power up problem. A short term solution was to hit the reset button, power it off, and then back on. Long term, I sent it in...it was fixed in 2 days and returned.

Did anyone watch the Super Bowl last night in HD using the Z3? I have mine connected to an HR10-250, signal was from Fox East feed over D*, and projected in a light-controlled room onto a Da-lite portable screen. I noticed significant SDE, especially on shots from the overhead camera. I tried to tweak it out and eventually gave up in the fourth quarter. Any suggestions on how to deal with this?

I noticed pixelation around a moving player but on replay it seems to go away. Is the problem coming from the source or the display device?

After 3 HDTV receivers (LG LST3510, Samsung SIR-T451 & US Digital Tuner), I can say the LG is the best in locking on to the channel. The US Digital is the worst because it only scanned 8 channels while the other scanned double that. Having said that, the tuners does not get all the blame because I need to get my attic antenna out for best result.

Originally posted by jportnoy
Did anyone watch the Super Bowl last night in HD using the Z3? I have mine connected to an HR10-250, signal was from Fox East feed over D*, and projected in a light-controlled room onto a Da-lite portable screen. I noticed significant SDE, especially on shots from the overhead camera. I tried to tweak it out and eventually gave up in the fourth quarter. Any suggestions on how to deal with this?

The Z3 shoudl be GREAT at reducing (eliminating) SDE. I don't have one yet, but I saw a Z2 a little while back, and the only time I noticed SDE is when I was sitting too close for my comfort (and I like a big screen)...

THe Z3 is supposed to be as good or better, and gets rave reviews for how little SDE it has.

What was the size of the screen you were using, and how far away were you sitting? Be as acurate as possible so that people here can give you ideas for fixing the problem based off of good information.

I'm not sure if the type of screen can enhance SDE but proper viewing distance for the size screen used and a "Slight Defocus Adjustment" are the only tweaks I know of to help reduce SDE.

I have a 2HD (Z2 clone) and I have to say, the Fox HD broadcast of the Superbowl on Comcast cable was some of the best HD progamming I have yet to experience with my projector. I also watched Showtime's Saturday Night Boxing this weekend and was equally impressed with the picture. It was like being in the ring with the fighters.

I would really like to see how the Z3 improves upon the Z2 picture quality in terms of contrast and black level. Is there anyone out there that can provide a side by side picture of both using the same room conditions and screen shot?

HT Gearhead: I am not familiar with the 2HD. Are there clones of the Z3? If so, does anyone know brand names and model numbers? TIA

I have had my Z3 since Wednesday & I experience screendoor if i don't sit back 12 feet. My room is only 11.5 deep, so I'm semi-screwed. It comes in & out, I can't always see it, sometimes its just a flash i know i saw or sometimes it's there for 10-30 seconds or so. I am projecting a 80" image from 10.5 feet (measuring from the lens), without any zoom, from a rear mounted shelf, center of the iris is @ the center of the screen. Needless to say i sit with my head against the wall @ 11.5 feet :) (most of the time). It's that last foot or so (from 11.0 feet on) that the SDE starts to become hard to see for me, personally. I do feel i have a discerning eye, so this wont apply to all. It may be just a matter of time to train myself to not look for or recognize when it does occur, but sometimes its too obvious. In regards to the Superbowl game (via Comcast HD, Motorola 6200 DVI->HDMI), I got the feeling that early on, the field cameras were giving off a look of a compressed signal, somewhat artifacty at times (similar to what many people have complained of from Fox HD football feeds), by the time the second quarter was going, i realized the picture had gotten better. Maybe they were tweaking it, or it was just my eyes.

BTW I am currently projecting to Blackout cloth/canvas (from JoAnn's Fabrics) held up & stretched out by industrial strength velcro strips, until I figure out what to do for a screen. My room is dark, but the walls are white & the floors are hardwood, so i have some work ahead of me. For anyone interested, I tried both sides of the canvas, i ended up using the shiny smooth white side, but the other side that was mildly textured and a bit gray, for some reason didnt appear to be as bad with screen door. I have to try more with this, because the adhesive wouldnt stick to the glossy side long enough to give it a fair enough time.

I have read on AVS, the screen you use can minimize the appearance of SDE, can anyone confirm this or offer other tips.

I think I could safely say that if you have a discerning eye & your face is 12 feet or more from where your screen is & starting with a 80" image from 10.5 feet, you should be fairly safe from SDE on the Z3. Barring any other issues.

As mentioned above a few posts, you could try to "un-focus" the image just a tad and it should fill in the SDE.

I've heard of other people sitting about 10.5 feet away from a 110" screen and they haven't mentioned any SDE problems with the Z2 or Z3, but maybe they have "un-focused" it a little too.

Seems silly, I know, to slightly blur a hi-res, or HD image, but it may be your only option.

I am curious as to how well a Z3 will work for me when I am ready in a couple of months to get one. My room is only 12' deep, and I want around a 106" 16:9 screen. That puts me, like you, at about 10.5' to 11' away from the screen, but if I am going to get hit by SDE, then I may be "semi-screwed" like you as well.

I can get as close as 6' before I can see any SDE on my Z3. Could be something with our setup (dvd player,cables,etc.) causing it, don't know enough about it yet...but I looked for it as soon as I got it setup...I have no problem with it and Iam far from a pro with PJ's.

KevinRS

I live in the U.S. but have a Japanese Z3. After only about two months and little more than 200 hours of use, my projector shut down during start-up and displayed the dreaded "Lamp Replace" light. I figured that the lamp must've been a lemon, and I purhased a new one. Upon replacing the lamp, the same thing happened. At startup, the countdown goes from 20 to 11, then shuts down with the "Lamp Replace" light flashing. My unit is covered under warranty in Japan, but I can't figure out how to get service in the US. I don't know what to do. I have a $2000 paperweight at the moment. Is there anywhere in the US that would honor the Japanese warranty? Or is there anywhere in the New York - Metro area that repairs these at a reasonable price? Please help!

-Carmine

Unless you are standing about 4 or 5 feet from the screen, SDE is virtually a non-issue with the Z3. Search these and other forums and will not find many if any at all complaining about SDE with this PJ. I can and often do sit as close as 8.4 feet from my 98" screen and never once noticed anything near SDE. In my opinion, if you can see SDE with the Z3, you are too close to the screen to enjoy the picture anyway.

Hi Onthejazz, curious do you like Diana Krall?

Anyway, I am very suprised about what your saying about SDE. I have 20/15 vision, not sure that matters, but like some of the others, I have to get under 5' with my 1 year old Z2 before I can see any hint of SDE. According to Projector Central review the Z3 is even slightly better in terms of SDE distance.

In my previous HT room, I adjusted my zoom to diag's upto 118", beyond P.C.'s recommendations, and sitting about 9-10' away the picture was awesome with no SDE. Again, I have to get pretty darn close before it is visable.

I guess I'm concerned by your statements that it "comes in and out" or "sometimes it is a flash for 10-30 seconds"? When you stand real close, you should see it all the time like a screen door covering the whole wall, not flashes? As KevinRS mentioned, could this be a part of your setup? Does this happen with all material like DVD's and HD watching? I notice your using a cyberhome DVD? Also, HTPC with HDMI, how long is your cable run, maybe your seeing sparkles, not SDE?

I can see very minor SDE on my Z3 (only in the very bright areas, and ONLY when it is in perfect focus). I sit 11 ft back from an 84" screen (DIY Parkland painted with Behr Silver Screen).

My solution is to slightly defocus the image. It sounds funny, but I actually like it a little softer. In perfect focus the image actually looks a little too sharp and unnatural to me.

I have a Carada High Contrast Gray screen on the way. It will be interesting if it makes any difference in SDE. I can tell by the sample that Carada sent me that it will be a huge improvement in black level, contrast and even gain (Silver Screen is lighter and totally flat in color).

Updates to come.......:)

BondMap, the 2HD is sold by Studio Experience. It is nothing more than a rebadged Z2 which is made by Sanyo for SE. Unfortunately, at least from what I heard by my dealer, SE will not offer a 3HD.

Well I hope to find out it's something that I am doing wrong, or something I haven't done/tweaked yet. Once I get it on DVI->HDMI from the PC, i set the focus razor sharp based on the desktop text. Now let me clarify, with the image this does project when I am not seeing the screendoor I am absolutely blown away. Also, is there something with viewing from an angle (or projecting from an angle) vs. viewing straight on that can effect the perceived image, because if i slide myself over to the side about 3 feet outside the screen anywhere after 6 feet, it becomes very hard to see the SDE. Some video on the high end of quality make it hard to detect or seem to hide it better than others, like if you download the Alexander 1080p trailer from the WMV HD content showcase (which i can't post a url for yet, with my 4 posts). It may also just be the lack of brighter colors in this clip. Now, I am new to all this in the last couple months, I have not tweaked the settings much (mostly due to lack of understanding) if at all, but I will as I continue to learn more here on AVSForum.

Sir Quack: I'm starting to think it has less to do with how good my vision is or isn't and more to do with the way that one watches video on a screen. But it definitely is screendoor that I am seeing, as it's the same thing i see standing 2 feet from the screen, just on a smaller scale. Sometimes I can't even see it per say but my eyes pick up on the the fact that something is there (if that makes any sense). It does tend to become more noticable on lighter, brighter colors, like white skins or skies.

Regarding upconversion, I am (for now) feeding my Z3 signal from the cheap Cyberhome dvd player over component cables, which is a surprisingly decent image. Even though the Cyberhome is capable of putting out a progressive scan signal, it wont let me set it in the menu, so it is passing a 480i signal to the Z3. Is this the best option anyways? As the Z3 seems to handle upconversion well. Or is it better to output a progressive scan signal first, like 480p. I am not exacly sure at which point the Z3 should step in & handle the rest of the scaling. Would I pickup much output quality (even at 480i) by picking up a more known, better quality DVD player (even if it was just a simple sony/samsung progressive with component outs)? I am pretty set on feeding the Z3 a digital connection (eventually), but in order to get a DVI/HDMI output you have to buy one of the more expensive upconverting/scaling players anyways. Curious how happy people are with the built-in upconversion on this unit & image quality from various sources over HDMI vs. Component, also vs. the higher end upscaling players Panasonic S97, Zenith DVB318, Denon, Pioneer...

-Dave

Jeff, yah that sounds exactly like what i experience. My room is 11'6" deep, so the furthest i can get the front of my face is about 11 feet from the projected image. At ten feet i notice it starting to blend together a little bit, at times. If I step back just one more foot or so, around the corner into the kitchen, my eyes have a very difficult time picking it up any more. Thats when I know I made the right purchase, with no light control and not having tweaked the image yet, damn this thing can still shine, once i get past the screendoor.....
Again, more than once, I have read more about gray screens hiding the screen door a little better even with a fully focused image. I will be very, very interested to hear your impressions on the Carada. I personally prefer a crisp, very detailed image, so if I can avoid having to soften the image that would be great.
I still need to find ways to focus the light reflection more back at myself, instead of off my moderatly shiny dark blue blinds (right side), dvd collection (left side), white wall behind me, the white ceiling above & the wooden floor. Unfortunately I live in an apartment so i can't do anything too drastic (i.e. paint the walls black). Once I can tame all those things, tweak the image/settings & find the right screen, I am confident the Z3 will show me its true potential.

I am noticing some green blotches in the lower left corner and upper right corner of the screen, particularily when darks, like black bars are being projected. I don't know if this can be tweaked out or is a flaw. There are also two pixels stuck on green, if i stand close to the screen I can see them clearly. Would this be dust in the unit or are there dead/stuck pixels on lcd projectors?

Lastly, a question on mounting, at which point do i want to mount the projector upside down. Is that after the lens is higher than the top of the projected image? And is there any visible loss of projected quality from using the lens shift?

Thanks all, I will continue to post as I get to know this machine better.

-Dave

>>I am noticing some green blotches in the lower left corner and upper right corner of the screen, particularily when darks, like black bars are being projected.<<

You have dust on the LCD panels - use the cleaning function and the lens blower tool that the Z3 came with - follow Sanyo's instructions EXACTLY. I clean the filters on my Z3 once a month. Strangely, I've never had a problem with dust blobs on the LCD panels - not even with my Z1. We have three cats and I "smoke" and still there have been no problems. (I put 'smoke' in quotes because I only smoke non-carcenogenic "Eclipse" cigarettes and they don't put out any second hand smoke - just a mild water vapor.)

I need to send in my Z1 - the blue panel has burnt and has a yellow tint to it - like that seen in the TI DLP Vs. LCD comparison papers. I hope Sanyo has better heat/light control in the Z3 so that it doesn't suffer the same fate - I use my Z3 as a regular television - 10+ hours per day - I used the Z1 the same way and got around 2000 hours on each bulb. I've learned, from being a 35 and 70mm IWERKS projectionsit, that the key to long bulb life is not cycling the bulb on and off. Once you turn it on, leave it on. Once you turn it off, don't turn it back on for several hours. The bulb suffers the greatest thermal/electrical stresses during turn on and turn off - minimize those and you'll get good bulb life.

Originally posted by onthejazz
Lastly, a question on mounting, at which point do i want to mount the projector upside down. Is that after the lens is higher than the top of the projected image? And is there any visible loss of projected quality from using the lens shift?
-Dave

The top of my screen is about the height of the Z3 and is also off center so I am using some of lens shift. I love what I see but having no comparison I cannot say if there are any degradations. A rule of thumb is not to use the extreme ends of the vertical and horizontal lens shifts. Since your room is on 11.5' deep then you can probably shelf mount it at the back and get away without using the lens shift too. That way it is dead center to the screen.

With my setup (Maxivideo 90" 16:9 screen, viewed from 11 feet) me too
I've found that a very very light defocus gives me a more pleasant and "cinema" feeling: before I experienced the "on-off" SDE in bright
scene's portions.
I've seen less SDE, feeding the Z3 with HDMI from both the Pioneer 868 (in US is the "elite" model that does the upscaling in HDMI) and the Radeon 9600, but i still like more the "analogic" feel of the component progressive
signal.
All that taking into account that I'm looking only at films on DVD.
(no hdtv in Italy, only the sh*ttv of our "thieving-clown" Premier)

Originally posted by nickbuol
The Z3 shoudl be GREAT at reducing (eliminating) SDE. I don't have one yet, but I saw a Z2 a little while back, and the only time I noticed SDE is when I was sitting too close for my comfort (and I like a big screen)...

THe Z3 is supposed to be as good or better, and gets rave reviews for how little SDE it has.

What was the size of the screen you were using, and how far away were you sitting? Be as acurate as possible so that people here can give you ideas for fixing the problem based off of good information.

I am using an 80" screen and am sitting about 9-10' away, right behind the projector which is on the coffee table. I can take exact measurements at home tonight if you think it will be helpful.

I have my Z3 projecting onto a 100" Carada BW with a viewing distance of about 12 feet. Under normal circumstances, I see no SDE, but I do get an occasional glimpse with bright objects in motion on DVD and HD. Interestingly, I have never seen this on any Xbox games, despite the high-contrast images and significant motion.

Rather than true SDE, is this the dreaded "peekaboo scan line" phenomenon?

Either way, the only solution seems to be a slight defocus, although I have not done that because I prefer to have an optimally sharp picture for the 99% of the time when I don't have the problem.

Just got my z3 a couple of weeks ago. It's throwing 13 feet using only a slight vertical shift onto a 100 inch diameter painted drywall screen. I initially painted with a Silver Mud mixture. (mmud + 6 oz silver metallic)

The good: Nice blacks and No noticeable sde sitting 12 feet away.

The bad: The skin tone was noticeably off and made people look sick.

Last night I remixed some of the remaining silver mud with more UPW and repainted.

The good: Now skin tones look great.

The bad: Now I can notice sde on white scenes (like the sweeping shots of the snow covered mountains in LOTR.

I'm going to wait a while, however, I may try to find the sweet spot by mixing in a little more of the silver paint that I have left so I can get rid of the sde AND keep the correct colors.

In the meantime I'm getting samples from goo and DIY Screen to see how they compare.

Hey guys,

My brother has a PLV-Z2 and is having problems with his HTPC getting the correct resolution output of 1280x720 to his projector. Would you guys happen to know the cure for this?

Thanks.

-KostaVan

anyone seen the Z3 on a gray screen

i currently have a white screen but my room is very bright (bright walls and white ceiling) so i will probably buy a gray screen so i wonder if i will notice any difference, is there a noticeable difference between a gray and a white screen.

i found this picture that shows the difference is the difference really this big between a gray and a white screen.

picture (http://www.hembiobutiken.se/images/prod/104312_2.jpg)

anyone seen the Z3 on a gray screen

I have a Carada 84" gray screen on the way. It should be here on Fri or Sat. My room is just like yours and I am currently using a DIY Parkland screen painted with Behr Silverscreen paint (much lighter gray than the Carada gray). I will report back after I have recalibrated my projector. I am sure I will be upping the brightness level and probably opening up the iris some (it is at -63 right now). I might have to go up one lamp setting from theater black as well.

BTW, in that picture u posted, the projector is obvioulsy calibrated for the gray screen. It is not a fair comparison.

Originally posted by jefe noche
I have a Carada 84" gray screen on the way. It should be here on Fri or Sat. My room is just like yours and I am currently using a DIY Parkland screen painted with Behr Silverscreen paint (much lighter gray than the Carada gray). I will report back after I have recalibrated my projector. I am sure I will be upping the brightness level and probably opening up the iris some (it is at -63 right now). I might have to go up one lamp setting from theater black as well.

BTW, in that picture u posted, the projector is obvioulsy calibrated for the gray screen. It is not a fair comparison.

thanks for your reply, so you can calibrate the PJ to get similar results as in the picture i posted in a bright room that would be really nice because with my current white screen the reflections are terrible.

it seems like i good investment to buy a gray screen for my room and it would be nice if you could comment on the differences when you get yours :p

ZoomAir....

If you already have a good quality screen...it might be better investment to first darken your walls and ceiling...and maybe add a dark rug to minimize reflections that are directed back towards the screen.

A higher gain screen will also reduce reflections but you'll have to spend a lot for a high gain screen that also improves black level such as the greyhawk or silverstar.

Originally posted by KostaVan
ZoomAir....

If you already have a good quality screen...it might be better investment to first darken your walls and ceiling...and maybe add a dark rug to minimize reflections that are directed back towards the screen.

A higher gain screen will also reduce reflections but you'll have to spend a lot for a high gain screen that also improves black level such as the greyhawk or silverstar.

thanks for the reply

the thing is my screen is a VERY cheap model so i should probably change it anyway so i wonder if i should go with a gray screen and if that is the better choice for my bright room. painting the room is not an option at this moment :p

I live in the Toronto area and finally got to see a Z3 in action. It was in a reasonably dark room projected onto a 92" Austin white screen. I was sitting right beside the unit as it was located on a table to my left, right beside the exhaust vent. I could not hear the fan that close even with the sound at soft levels. The picture was movie like and colours were excellent. There was no VBE or SDE. I was sitting 13' back. My room is totally black with grey walls so the picture shouldl be even better. It sold me. I had previously tested a Panny 700 but saw VBE all over the place. Warranty of 3 years a good selling feature as well. Overall I was very impressed.

hi everyone

i have the 1.01 firmware and that should solve the 720p lockup problem but not the predator problem. i was wondering if the predator problem is associated with a particular resolution as the 720p lockup was.

congrats jayray it is a great PJ i am very pleased with mine an i have bright walls and a white ceiling so i will buy a gray screen soon. it should look GREAT in your dark room.

anyone seen the Z3 on a gray screen

Zoomair,

I just got my Carada 84" High Contrast Gray sceen up. It is absolutely perfect for my situation (white walls and ceiling).

It is NOT as bright as my DIY screen...but neither are my walls......... :)

I would not advice going much bigger with this screen because of the loss in brightness.

I did open up the Iris (from -63 to -38), and upped the gamma setting (from 0 to +2). I will leave the lamp on theater black. Blacks are great....whites look fine....colors and contrast are terrific.

I would highly reccomend this screen for the Z3 if you have light colored walls. The build quality is great as well....and the price is right...:)

Originally posted by jefe noche
Zoomair,

I just got my Carada 84" High Contrast Gray sceen up. It is absolutely perfect for my situation (white walls and ceiling).

It is NOT as bright as my DIY screen...but neither are my walls......... :)

I would not advice going much bigger with this screen because of the loss in brightness.

I did open up the Iris (from -63 to -38), and upped the gamma setting (from 0 to +2). I will leave the lamp on theater black. Blacks are great....whites look fine....colors and contrast are terrific.

I would highly reccomend this screen for the Z3 if you have light colored walls. The build quality is great as well....and the price is right...:)

THANKS:D

sounds great i dont now if we have that screen here in sweden but i will buy a high contrast gray screen with gain 0.8 is that the same gain as your screen.

and i will also go with 80"

thanks again for your reply:D :p

I would also consider the Stewart Firehawk too. But that is just my hubble opinion.

OK. So what type of screen are people using with their Z3? Not brand necessarily, but grey, white, gain, etc?

I had read for a while that people were using a matte white screen with a gain of 1.0 with the Z3, but now there is talk of grey screens with a gain of less than 1.0...

Is there a guideline on this?

I will be using my Z3 (when I get it) in a completely light controlled room, and hope for either a 100 or 106" screen (depending how whether or not my wife says that the 106" is too big), but I want to make sure that I get the right screen the first time.

Thanks!

Have heard that for a lumen output of 800, for the Z3, and in a light controlled room, the best would be something like the Firehawk from Stewart. It has a gain of 1.35 but reviews have not noticed any hotspots or other artifacts.

I had a Sony upscaling DVD player with HDMI connection that worked great with my Z3. The picture I got when setting the DVD player to 720p was terrific. Unfortunately it had problems with the tray and had to be exchaged. Until I get a new one from Sony, I'm using a progressive scan player with a component connection. When I try to upscale using the projector by changing to either 720p or 1080i I get no picture. Am I doing something wrong or will the projector not "upscaled" a 480p signal from the DVD player like some others will?

Did you check if your input is C1 or C2 in the Z3?

It's c1, and it's the only input. Nothing else is connected.

I have to double check mine. I have my vcr (480i) connected thru C1 which should not be any different. Unless, there is an Auto selection which I usually select. I'll verify my C1 setup when I get home.

The Z3 doesn't upscale that way - the 720 you are selecting on the projector is for the INPUT standard. The Z3 scales your 480P component input to its native 720 automatically - the resolution selection menu screen has nothing to do with it. Again, that screen is for the input format selection only - like if I had a Hi-Vision MUSE LaserDisc signal, it should be set to 1035i since that is the Hi-Vision output standard.

Understood, thanks.
So is the scaler on an upscaling DVD player better than the scaler on the Z3? Is it a matter of personal preference or is there any reference on the subject?

Originally posted by jportnoy
Understood, thanks.
So is the scaler on an upscaling DVD player better than the scaler on the Z3? Is it a matter of personal preference or is there any reference on the subject?

That is a good question. I know that I would like to know the answer. I hear that the Z3 does a very good job, and if it is better, then that opens up a lot of options for DVD players. If an upscaling DVD player does a better job than the Z3, then you are limited in models and manufacturers...

Anyone done any A/B testing of letting the DVD Upscale vs letting the Z3 Upscale?