What makes the BenQ PE8720 so much better than the HD65? Thanks for your reply.

Hi, I havent bought yet, but the Benq 8720 and Panasonic 900 are on my short list. Due to space and room limitations, I'm planning on a 88" diagonal screen (probably can't fit much larger), with the projector shelf-mounted on the opposite wall about 14.5 ft away. Few good projectors fill the bill that I can find. Just the Panasonic, with its 2x zoom, and the BenQ (only a 1.35 zoom, but calculators indicate it would work, due its longer lens throw.) According to reviews on projector central and projectorreviews.com, the BenQ is definitely superior: brighter, sharper, somewhat quieter (23 db vs 25 db in their lowest modes). However, the Benq costs three times as much (about $4000 vs. $1600). I can afford the $4000 but I'm tempted to get the Pan. I guess I'm wondering if it makes sense to get the cheaper one and plan on upgrading later. The BenQ has gone from $10,000 list to $4000 street in less than 6 months (the first prof. review I know of was posted in October). I figure I could pick it up later at a reduced price, or better yet, get a future model projector that's even better than the BenQ, at similar prices--$4000. Thinking out loud here, I know, but my questions are: 1) anyone know of any other projectors that might work for me? 2) Thoughts on the BenQ 8720 vs. the Pan 900, and whether the extra money for the BenQ is worth it? 3) Does it makes sense to get the cheap one now and pick up a superior model later, be it the BenQ or whatever? thanks, rayboy

I owned a BenQ 7700 for about a year, and it was a wonderful projector - except for the short lamp issue. I noticed on the BenQ website a link (under the FAQ section, not easily found) there is an upgrade program to move to the PE8720 - you are given 2k for the 7700 and only pay the difference for the PE8720...after thinking about it, I jumped and did the upgrade. I will have the PE8720 tomorrow (3/20) and hope to install it on Wednesday. I have to move the ceiling mount back a little ways since it has a longer throw. I am projecting to a 96" Carada Criterion screen with the nomal white finish (+1.0 gain). The room is a dedicated theatre room with dark walls/furniture and controlled lighting. I will let you know what I think of it once I get it up - I will also give perspective of whether it was worth the extra 3,500 over the PE7700. Can't wait! -John