Anyone found any other news on this projector? Along the lines of the Mitsubishi HC3000, Optoma H72, LG AN110, and Yamaha DPX-830SL (same DLP chip apparently anyway) - although this one mentions a 5x color wheel vs. 4x for the others so far:

(from projector central):

The DT-500 high-definition DLP™ front projector is a stylish, feature-packed projector that is ideal for a dedicated home theater or any viewing room. This portable unit can be moved easily from room to room, for an instant home theater anywhere. Utilizing the DLP technology from Texas Instruments, and with a resolution of 1280 x 768, the DT-500 produces a 4000:1 contrast ratio and a brightness rating of 1000 ANSI lumens, delivering one of the best pictures available in consumer home theater today. Weighing just 8.6 pounds, consumers can carry the projector to any room of the house to watch TV, DVD movies or play computer games on a big screen and then store the entire system in a cabinet to save space. A powered optical iris system instantly changes brightness and contrast settings with the push of a button to allow the greatest flexibility for varying home theater environments. Home theater convenience is further enhanced with easy installation and whisper-quiet operation. A 6 Segment 5 X Speed color wheel achieves flicker-free, high-grade images and accurate color reproduction, resulting in an uninterrupted, detailed picture. Other features include I/P conversion, 3-2 pull down, Color Management System (C.M.S.), 3-step Bright Boost and an HDMI interface. The DT-500 will be available in July for an MSRP of $3,299.

Hmm... 5x wheel, that's an improvement over the 4x wheels of the others (I believe they are all 4x?)
July is a ways away though :(

The DT500 is probably the same as the XVZ3000, but sold through different channels.

Usually the DT models have a shorter throw.

It's not completely clear that these are the same projector. For one the Z3000 is quoted as having a dual iris system and higher contrast (undoubtedly a DI contrast) and brightness than the DT-500. It also is described as a 720p projector, and it might be like the IN76 which doesn't light the extra pixels at all, making it a true 720p projector, unlike the 768p switchable HC3000U. Despite the better specs the Z3000 has a lower MSRP on ProjectorCentral.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v425/prophets92/100_0002.jpg
I just received the DT-500 as a present, I'll give some info as not much is available on the web.

Lamp life is 2000 on bright and 3000 on eco.

It has a short throw lense 100" diagonal picture is at a minimum 9'11" [3.0m] maximum 11'6" [3.5m]

I'll try to find fan noise info later as I have not found it yet.

It's still in the box as I just moved into my apartment, no Direct Tv yet or HD-DVD player yet as to give feedback on this projector.

It does look beautiful and I suspect it should perform beautifully.

prophets92sho,

Congratulation on your new projector! Any initial impressions of the picture quality?
Is your pj a japanese import? I know you mentioned that it was a gift, but why the DT-500 over the Z3000?

It was a gift so no choice in the matter, and I'm not complaining.

Picture quality, spectacular.

Short throw lense so very large picture from short distance, can do 120' easily with great picture quality.

I know many would go for longer throw on lense but I like the fact you have extra lumens at a short throw for great picture quality with large picture.

The blacks are ink black, color are very vibrant with very sharp picture.

I like the two fan speed mode on either high or low contrast mode.

I've only tried on cheap dvd player with HDMI but great results, can't wait for HD-DVD player.

I've owned an Infocus 4805 and the first thing I noticed the DT-500 was so easy on the eyes like an LCD projector, where the 4805 had great picture but gave me eye strain.

I love it, no more pixelation or eye strain or motion artifacts like on the 4805.

Could you detail where the intake/exhaust vents are? Pictures would be great.

Intake vent side closest to the lense and exhaust vent on the other side.

Stays extremely cooler than my 4805.

Intake side....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v425/prophets92/105_0571.jpg

Exhaust side...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v425/prophets92/105_0572.jpg

Great set-up, cold air flowing through all of the interior of projector.

inputs...one video, one s-video, two component, computer rgb component, one hdmi, one rs-232c terminal.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v425/prophets92/105_0574.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v425/prophets92/105_0573.jpg

Only negative would be the light spill from the side vents as this projector uses no filters. :(

Still love it, just ordered a Toshiba HD-a1 I should be enjoying 120" of pure HD viewing pleasure very soon.

So how does this compare to the Panasonic 100?
I just want to hurry up and buy something so I can quit having this internal debate!

Costco is selling this now! I'm thinking of exchanging my AX100 for it.

Costco now knocking off $700!! Less than half the original MSRP.

Anyone not happy with it?

By the way, several sites list 29db for the fan noise. I am sure it is a mfg. spec.

Looks like a great projector. If Costco sells them then you can't go wrong. If you don't like it return it. Just don't use Costco as a rental agency and abuse their return policy. The nice thing about side exhaust is it's great for hushboxes or behind a wall installation as you can put the PJ right next to the projection hole (preferably covered with projection glass to keep the dust and sound out).