should I take back my 1500 and get the 3000 for less $$$$

My gut says no biggie, but the numbers say go for it.

It depends on your room, and whether you need the extra brightness of the HC1500.

The room will be a dedicated light controlled theater. The walls aren't black, but dark tan and the ceiling is DARK grey. It is small. the pj will be about 10-12 feet away from an 84-92" screen.

I guess I'm wondering what are the differences and if the 3000u is considered "better". And why?

The 3000 has no white segement in its color wheel. This improves contrast but reduces brightness.

is that the only difference?

bump

The HC3000 has an Iris, in addition to no white segment in the color wheel, both help it achieve darker blacks.

The HC1500 is brighter, but the black levels aren't as great.

With your situation, I'd get the 3000.

I just made the switch and now own a 3000u open box with 4 hrs on it. I smells burnt up and has an internal rattle. Plugged it in and it worked great. I will call one other store to see if they have a new one, but I think I will try to stick with the 3000u. Does anyone know of a 3000u calibration thread?

Thanks in advance

Andy

Also does anyone have a screen recommendation? I think I'll be getting a Carada, 84", 88" or 92" depending on what it looks like on my wall. But what about the screen choice? Regular white, High contrast grey or high gain white. I know I've botched the names but I think the descriptions are right. Any thoughts. Thanks in advance.

Andy

For a room like yours, and with the HC3000, I recommend a white screen (either matte, or with a little bit of gain). Before purchasing a manufactured screen, you might want to take a look at the DIY Screen forum on this site. There are several options that rival the performance of manufactured screens, but at a lower cost and with more flexibility in size/framing/mounting/border etc.
I'm particularly fond of the Wilsonart laminate as a screen, myself (I used the Fashion Gray color due to having a little bit of ambient light and the brighter HC1500 PJ, you would probably be better off with the Designer White color).