Projector question

My experience with the Pany 4000u was that it offered somewhat better than average LCD black level performance, and that it had no visible pixel structure. On top end of the contrast range, however, it was a little flat comparitively and subdued looking - EVEN COMPARED TO THE EPSON 8350!! (which had more "pop" to the image). Otherwise, the Panny was an excellent unit, which could have likely benefited from some sort of high contrast black screen, like screen innovations Black Diamond series.
The Mitsubishi HC6800 also had some similar characteristics as the Panny 4000u, including limited dynamic range/contrst on the top end, smooth overall pic (visible pixels close up, however), BUT BLACK LEVEL WASN'T EVEN BETTER THAN MY OPTOMA HD65 720 DLP PJ!! - also needs something like the Black Diamond SI screen to help boost contrast range and lower black level performance.
The Epson 8350's didn't have the N'th degree of color accuracy, but close. Never the less, they offered a very contrasty, poppy looking image, and descent pixel sturcture. Black level, however, wasn't any better than typical LCD or entry DLP projectors, really - also needs a proper screen. Beyond that, I see quality control issues there also! (Black sceens have Redish brown tint in the corners - distracting. Also, some pannel mis-alignment issues).
I've still kept my Optoma HD65 DLP projector, for netflix movies and computer work from the VGA connection. The image from this thing still has great contrast on the top end, image pop and sparkle...but black level hurts the darkest sceens, obviously. But then again I paid $350 for the thing used (still a great pj at a great price for portable ap's, gaming, coputer display, and tinkering!
Back to 1080p now...
The JVC, upon firing it up, and making a few adjustments JUST BLOWS YOU AWAY! THat black level is soooo deep compared to what you're used to from typical LCD/DLP projectors (and no color wheel), and so film like, and so contrasty looking(likley do to DEEEEp blacks), that you just can't stop adding superlatives! That's all I'm saying.
I've been an admirer of the JVC's since I saw them first at the trade shows. Now that I've owned one, I am just as pleased now as I was then! Truely nice looking, even with lack of color managment built in..still settings get color very very close,and close enough to thrill.
Yeah, I'm sure I found a pocket of these in my area, that no one else paid much attention to. I saw em and knew I had a bargain on my hands. So I took the deals and invested.
Lol - unfortunately, I like the deal and to turn the cash more than keeping the merchandise!! I will likey, however, still keep this last one..the others I've honestly sold for several hundred dollars profit each! Just couldn't help myself, in flipping the deal...hehe!

Ckniker, these three jvc units were found in my local Southern California area stores, within 30 mile radius. I might add however- as JVC is no longer a line BB carries, apparently - that some of these DIDN'T EVEN SHOW UP ON IN THE INVENTORY when I called to verify computer listed stock on hand! This was the case with one of the Mitsubishi HC6800's I found as well. I had to make several calls to many of the local stores and had them do physical searches, as I know often times merchancise "buckets" on computer inventory lists are "off" or wrong, lots of times. In fact, I had called one store on a whim, and happened to ask a sales associate at Best Buy if they had any of these projectors in stock (I know the computer showed 0's accross the board). And low and behold, the associate said I'M STANDING NEXT TO ONE NEW IN THE BOX! (The Mits Hc6800 was clearanced down to $999 ,down from $2495, down from $3495! ..of course I took it -AND SOLD It $1450!-EBAY)
Last HD350 I picked up the other night also did not show up in their system...but I knew it was there, cause I had seen it off-n-on for months when I would pass through. Sure enough, went in one day, and manager finally "caved" and gave it up for $1000 (missing accessories, few scuffs, needing a new bulb and such).
Basically, this kind of stuff all comes down to making calls, talking to sales associates and even managers, and working deals...you either do this kind of thing, or you don't. I've been finding these kinds of deals all my life, and it's like scavanger hunting. I keep your eyes open, and just work the deals!!
Let me review: Last 5 (yes, that's five!) 1080p video projectors I bought, WERE FROM BEST BUY, on like "triple clearance!" -2009 models - otherwise still quality stock!

Items picked up in last 2 months- again:
1ea Mits HC6800 -new sealed @$999 (sold for $1450 ebay!!)
1ea Mits HC6800-720hrs bulb+free bulb @$728(SOLD $1200ebay)
3ea JVC DLA-HD350's -all got 2new bulbs,1 from JVC &1 BB
(made $800 profit so far on 1st 2!!)

I agree with you on the 8350 to a certain extent Avgoround. I honestly never found the image to have that pop you describe. For 1200 its a good unit with great flexibility. But one can do much better for not a whole lot more money.

The HD65 is another unit,that is OK, but is way too dim for my taste. Black levels are lacking severely. It does have great pop in certain movies,such as animations. Hell what projector doesn't pop with this stuff though? lol

You got a great deal on the JVC. That unit is currently re-badged as a JVC HD250.

I have a DLP that will give your JVC a run for the money! ;-)

While I'm certain someting like the Misubishi HC4000 is a superior projector over the likes of the Optoma HD65, the hd65 has a great bang for the buck factor. I find it's extemely portable, throws a pretty acceptable image on an HC gray screen of 100-120", and has the cheapest replacement bulb available ($130 OEM) for those who use it every day (I use mine for VGA out for computer work and occasional netflix movie). Truely, nothing to complain about there for $300-400 street prices with low bulb hours!- I think, anyway. And I've never had a friend or family member who's viewed the HD65 say anything other than wow!...looks great.
For dedicated movie setups, for $1000 though, I truely doubt that there's anything out there that can touch the image quality that this JVC HD350 can produce! You can use a white screen, and blacks are still excellent. You can blow up the image for 2.35:1 setup, and also looks amazing.
Fully automated, and videophile type of machine. Sure, lacks CMS, but I find I can get it close enough for satisfactory in that regard.
Side by side, for $1k used, I think any other buy would be hard pressed to surpass the performance! I really do.