Hey guys an Infocus IN76 owner here, and I am selling my projector to a friend for $1000(and only 200 hours on the lamp). Now here's my dilemma...

I want a new projector but I can't decide whether to get a Darkchip 3 720p, or a 1080p projector like the Panasonic 1000U. I was going to get the IN78 from Infocus, but it's just too steep for something that isn't 1080p.

So what do you think folks? Is Darkchip 3 that big of a difference? or is 1080p really the way to go? Mind you I favor IQ > Resolution any day. So strong contrast and blacks/color is very very important(I'm a gamer afterall, and DVD is a MUST).

So if you folks have any suggestions please respond. The screen size is 108", and we're sitting about 11' to 12' away.

This has really been discussed at length here. There are some very interesting threads comparing 720p projectors to their 1080p counterparts. The long and short of it is, unless you're dealing with larger screen sizes, benefit gained purely from resolution alone can be moot. However, these 1080p projectors represent the best of the technology available so they will generally have increased specs across the board for picture quality.

In terms of the specific move you're talking about - is there a difference in the HD2+ chips? Depends on where you move. DLP - even HD3 chips - as as affordable as ever these days - but every implementation is certainly not the same. In the cost ballpark of the Panasonic 1000 there are some truly high performing 720p DLP's that are way above quality wise the Infocus 76 and 78. You are in reach of some of last years peak performers in the category - eg the BenQ 8720 - this still throws a beautiful image. Additionally people are starting to sell the Marantz, Sharps and other high end 720p DLP's and great prices now that 1080p is the rage.

The 1080p LCD offerings will bring you a different flavor of picture as well as some installation flexibility (lens throw, lens shift, etc) - they will be less bright than some of the projectors I've mentioned.

So, if your room will handle it you most certainly wouldn't be dissapointed by a move to either the LCD's or DLP's. With a DLP move in that price range you're not only talking about improvements strictly from the chip - but improvements from moving to a higher quality projector all around. If my room could accommodate one of these 720p projectors (like last years Marants VP12S4) I'd certainly be moving to those vs the JVC RS1 - but given my room is fairly short I'm stuck with using projectors that have better zoom ratio's - but if they were doable I'd certainly think about that direction-
Good luck!

Hey guys an Infocus IN76 owner here, and I am selling my projector to a friend for $1000(and only 200 hours on the lamp). Now here's my dilemma...

I want a new projector but I can't decide whether to get a Darkchip 3 720p, or a 1080p projector like the Panasonic 1000U. I was going to get the IN78 from Infocus, but it's just too steep for something that isn't 1080p.

So what do you think folks? Is Darkchip 3 that big of a difference? or is 1080p really the way to go? Mind you I favor IQ > Resolution any day. So strong contrast and blacks/color is very very important(I'm a gamer afterall, and DVD is a MUST).

So if you folks have any suggestions please respond. The screen size is 108", and we're sitting about 11' to 12' away.


I too sold my IN76 and wish I hadn't. I purchased an HD1000 to "hold me over" until a resonable 1080p makes the scene. Still don't see one yet, although the BenQ W9000 and JVC RS1U are contenders. I want to see measured ANSI contrast on the RS1U before deciding. If it is >500 then that will be my choice. LCD's are typically under 300 so that is why I hesitate. I believe the IN76 measured >600 in some reviews.

K