Hi-
Looks like the Panny 2000 is orderable now, for a price that qualifies it for this forum. I retruned my Epson 1080 HC due to no 24p support and a little too loud for me. I am very ready for a new PJ and the Panny meets all my specs, but should I hold out for the Epson UB? Any updates on price and availability of the UB? I dont want to spend > 3K, but i do want to see what 50,000:1 looks like...any strong opinions on but now or wait?

The 50,000:1 is misleading. It is brighter than the panny, which gives that extra contrast. The panels are the same. They will probably perform very similarly. the epson will probably be a bit more money, but at the same time have a better warranty.

I was planning to wait for the Epson, but decided to get the Panny instead. In the end, they will probably have similar performance and simlar prices. If you're in no hurry, you might as well wait. If the Epson turns out to be better, you'll probably see additional rebates given on the Panny.

Hi-
Looks like the Panny 2000 is orderable now, for a price that qualifies it for this forum. I retruned my Epson 1080 HC due to no 24p support and a little too loud for me. I am very ready for a new PJ and the Panny meets all my specs, but should I hold out for the Epson UB? Any updates on price and availability of the UB? I dont want to spend > 3K, but i do want to see what 50,000:1 looks like...any strong opinions on but now or wait?

If you already haven't, you might want to read this Projector Central review of the Sony VPL-VW60, which he compares to the Panny 2000. He has a lot of good things to say about the Panasonic.

I'm in the same boat you are. Because I already have a projector to tide me over, I am going to wait to see what the Epson has to offer.

doesnt epson have some of the best customer support? that is pretty important considering how alot of these projectors seem to need servicing after a year or two