I want to know how much different these projectors are. The S4 being twice as much in price. Both can be had for well below their MSRP now. I really wanted a 1080P for my next PJ but these higher end 720P's offer a lot of bang for the buck.

I've done a lot of research on the VP4001 but I would be willing to pay double for the S4 if it really offers better black level/shadow detail, better optics/lens, etc. Whats weird is.. and I know specs aren't everything... is that the lower priced VP4001 has more lumens and higher contrast ratio!?! What does the VP4001 skimp on that the S4 has?

I know this may seem like an odd competition being that the S4 sold 3x as much as the VP4001 did when they were launched. But I'm willing to pay the price if the S4 is head and shoulders above the VP4001.

Can anyone thats seen both of these offer their experience with them?
Dan Miller or anyone I would appreciate comments on this. I am going to pull the trigger the first of the month.

Thanks.

The 12S4 is a much, much better projector, but as you said, a lot more money. Worth it? When only comparing these 2 I would say so.

What I don't know (and you cannot post it) is what prices they are you are finding so that makes it a bit though.

Well, for one thing if you followed the Athens shootout you will see the S4 seemed better if not on par with the S1. The S4 would have better processor, optics, scaler, placement and air flow. Is the PQ worth twice as much, only you can decide. The thing I would be concerned about the S4 is lumens. The VP4001 is speced higher on lumens and CR and is more versatile for sports and movie viewing. The S4 may just be for movie viewing in a light controlled room.