Panasonic AE900U vs. Sanyo PLV-Z4

[Craig234]

So, both got great reviews, and seem similar; Sanyo a little more expensive in total dollars, but with a free spare bulb making it cheaper.

Sanyo 3 year warranty, versus 2 with the promotion for the Panasonic.

Having just ordered the Panasonic yesterday to meet the 5/31 rebate deadline, and today seeing the rebate extended to 6/30 and the Sanyo review, the natural question is - is the Panasonic still the right choice. I didn't see a lot to directly answer that, as the reviews seem similarly pleased and don't go head to head.

 

[gmichael]

I think that you will be happy with the Panny. I did read a head to head comparison a while back. Neither came out as a clear winner. The Sanyo seems to have an overall sharper image when put side by side. But the Panny has less pixilation at closer seating positions. Either way, they are both good units. You will be happy.

Don't sweat the petty things and don't pet the sweaty things.

 

[wlecount]

One thing that the Panny has going for it is that they extended the $400 rebate another month. Maybe I can talk myself into getting one know!

 

[BMXTRIX]

If I had to buy one of those projectors myself, I would get the Sanyo as the only viewing I do with front projectors is upconverted DVD and HD material. The sharpness level of the Sanyo is noticably better and I like the added lens shift which would allow me to flush mount it against my 9 foot ceiling.

But, the Panasonic is a bit brighter, which is noticable, and the image, while noticably softer, definitely has it's advantages in close seating arrangements. HD material on the Panny is spectacular, just not QUITE what it is on the Z4 at a proper viewing distance. Yet, when you get closer, the AE900 retains its smooth image while the Z4 will start to show visible pixel structure.

No, neither is a 'clear' winner IMO, but both are excellent and it more is a matter of how the room will be setup. A dedicated theater from appropriate viewing distances with high quality sources = Z4 while a more versatile rec room which may not have 100% light control always and seating may not always be optimal = AE900.

They are both great though.