Last year, the Sanyo PLV-Z4 earned a very high rating for its image performance, feature set, and placement flexibility. At the time, it was hard to consider how Sanyo would improve upon such an excellent projector. Now, with the release of the PLV-Z5, we have an answer. The PLV-Z5 is a direct evolution of the Z4, with improvements in several important areas of image quality. The result is a rock-solid performer that sells at the astounding low estimated street price of $1695.

ANSI lumens: 1100

Contrast (full on/off): 10,000:1

Light Engine: 1280x720, native 16:9, 3x 0.7" PolySi LCD.

Data Compatibility: Computer resolutions up to WXGA.

Connection Panel: 2x HDMI inputs, one VGA input, two sets of component YPbPr inputs, one S-Video input, one composite input, one service port, one kensington lock point, hardwired power on/off switch.

Lens and Throw Distance: 2:1 manual zoom/focus lens with manual H/V lens shift. Throws a 100" diagonal 16:9 image from 10.1' to 20.1'

Warranty: Three years.

The Z5 uses the same sleek gray casework as the Z4, complete with motorized lens cover. The cover opens automatically when you power the projector on, then closes up again when it's turned off. This will help to keep dust off of the lens without forcing you to remember to replace the lens cap or flip up the front cover as on the older Z3.

The connection panel is almost identical to that of the Z4, with one major addition: The PLV-Z5 has two HDMI ports to the Z4's one. This will allow the connection of two high-quality digital sources to your projector without requiring the use of an HDMI switching device. In addition, there are two YPbPr component inputs, S-Video, composite video, a VGA port, and a service port. The Z5 should have ample connection options for most any set of home theater equipment.

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