I am considering two projectors at this time: the Sim2 HT305E and the Sony "Pearl".

Has anyone had experience with both of the PJs and provide some insight into the benefits of one over the other?

Thanks.

aramb
Lehigh Valley, PA

I have heard some good things on the pearl but I own a Sim 300+ and the colors and
picture is amazing. Sim2 projectors are superior in my opinion.

The Sim is a 720p model and the Sony is a 1080p model (i think) so you would need to consider if there are benefits to be had with 1080p over 720p based on your viewing distance amongst other things. I think there is a thread elsewhere on this.

The Sim has had an upgrade with a brighter lamp amongst other things. The Sony may be quieter in fan noise compared to the Sim although I did see a demo of the new Sim d80 1080p model and it was very quiet.

The best way to make a desicion is to see both in action with your favorite movie clips. I have a Sim300e and do not regret my purchase. One thing I have noticed with the Sim is how 'cinematic' the picture is and to me that is what I would look for in my next purchase, regardless of chip resolution.

I have seen the Pearl in action and while impressive it was not enough for me to lament my purchase.

Regards

Mahm

Thanks for the input so far. I realize that one is 1080p and the other is 720p, although I have heard that the picture of the Pearl is "soft" compared to other 1080p machines. I am looking at these two units because they are both similarly priced. I have previously had a Sim2 HT300 and I loved it. I just wonder if I would be better off stepping up to a 1080p PJ rather than the HT305E.

aramb

Thanks for the input so far. I realize that one is 1080p and the other is 720p, although I have heard that the picture of the Pearl is "soft" compared to other 1080p machines. I am looking at these two units because they are both similarly priced. I have previously had a Sim2 HT300 and I loved it. I just wonder if I would be better off stepping up to a 1080p PJ rather than the HT305E.

aramb

The question probably has more to do with how often you want to upgrade and how big of a nag not having 1080p is going to be when you watch the 720p unit. As in, "Gee, I wonder how much better this Blu Ray/HD-DVD disc would look if I had gone with the higher resolution?"

As always, if you have them available, you should try to sit down and view each of them, if possible. The Pearl should be the easiest to see if you've got a B&M dealer or a Sony Style store nearby.

Bill

Thanks for the input so far. I realize that one is 1080p and the other is 720p, although I have heard that the picture of the Pearl is "soft" compared to other 1080p machines. I am looking at these two units because they are both similarly priced. I have previously had a Sim2 HT300 and I loved it. I just wonder if I would be better off stepping up to a 1080p PJ rather than the HT305E.

aramb

I always read about this Sony softness. I purchased the Pearl mostly because of it's excellent black level and less because of 1080p. I went from a BenQ 8700+ 720p DLP to the Pearl and am AMAZED at the detail watching high def sources. It is leaps and bounds more detailed than my previous 720p BenQ. I ordered it from Jason Turk at avscience and paid an extra $200 to have it calibrated. Well worth the extra money to make sure you get a good one.

Tom