I was wondering if someone could share their thoughts on which projector to go with as I am in the market for one or the other. What are the pros and cons of both and why? I'm ready to purchase one of them :confused: Your input is much appreciated, thanks!

Sanyo PLV-Z5 or Panasonic PT-AX200U?

Have you seen this yet:

http://www.projectorcentral.com/panasonic_ax200_sanyo_z5.htm

Yeah actually I have but still left with which one to go with :confused:
Maybe I'll just flip a coin. That's why I was hoping someone that has one or had both could share their experience with them. Any info would be great!

I don't have either, but that article makes it rather cut and dried. I considered the Z5, but want a brighter projector for my room. I also considered the AX200, but don't like the reliability reports. Right now, I'm planning on getting the Epson HC720 if reviews are good.

I was in the same boat that you are. I have a dedicated HT and total control of light so i decided to go with the Z5 and stay away from the panny problems, get better picture quality and contrast. that PC article and all the problems with the panny sealed the deal... not to mention saving $200... so i put that into a new screen! If anyone sees a UPS truck parked between Minniapolis and the Seattle area, tell the driver to get going i'm waiting for my projector and going through withdrawls since my color wheel burned on my A1.
good luck!

I was in the same boat and eventually went with the Marantz VP4001....I received it yesterday from UBid and posted in that thread.

All I can say is I can't go back to LCD PJ's anymore;).

Frag

Well, i guess im in the same boat as well. As i do not have a total light controlled room and game a lot, i finally decided to go with the AX200.

About the "problems" with the Pana: All i can read are problems you read about every beamer available, nothing compared to the ax100 back then. Reading the polls it looks like even with the "special crowd" browsing this forum (a lot of them are here because of problems in the first hand), it seems as the problems that have been posted only affect a very limited number of users.

The Z5 itself has its problems as well (shading, blue haze bug,...).

Another thing: If you are about to do a big update or this is your first beamer than you can't do anything wrong. You will absolutely love either the Sanyo or the Pana, as they only differ in special usecases and both are great devices :-)

I believe that Dada is correct. The AX200 is currently one of the top-selling models. Consequently there are more reports of issues, since more have been purchased.

However, even these reports seem to be minimal in comparison with the numbers sold. A representative at a dealer with whom I spoke said that they've sold 5,000 in the past two months with no returns so far. And thus far only a couple of folks have reported problems in the AX200 poll:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/poll.php?do=showresults&pollid=5630

That's not to mimimize the frustration by those who have experienced problems. However, the problems do not appear to be greater than those found in any other model or brand.

I got the Z5 and absolutely love it, that being said both are great PJs
you can not go wrong with either one - to me if you need the lumens get the Panny - if not get the Z5.

Thank you guys for all the info. It really does sound like a toss up and unfortunately I'm still confused as to which one to go with, you guys make some very good and valid points. Yes I can find the Z5 for about $200 cheaper as well and the AX200 has that Blockbuster $400 worth of rentals deal too. Can any Z5 owners tell me how it does in ambient light. I have a downstairs that at night would be pitch black dark but during the day fairly light. I really only plan on using it for movies.

Thanks again!

Can any Z5 owners tell me how it does in ambient light. I have a downstairs that at night would be pitch black dark but during the day fairly light. I really only plan on using it for movies.

Thanks again!

I have a Z5 on a 106" screen and it is the best entertainment purchase I`ve ever made, no problems what-so-ever!

I use my pj in a room with two windows but I just keep my dark burgandy curtains closed....no problem. My theater also has a pool table with 8 can lights above it, we always watch TV on the pj while we are shooting pool, I notice SLIGHT washout but noone ever complains...it still beats the hell out of a 40" plasma!

You say you will only use your projector for movies but that will change once you have it running, I cant stand watching TV on my tiny 40" anymore!!

I dont know if it has been extended but Sanyo did have a $300 rebate which made my pj $1115.00 back in March, I know they are cheaper now!!

Good luck with your purchase, you`ll love it either way.