Sanyo PLV-Z3000 Projector - Black Levels & Shadow Detail

First is a seriously overexposed shot of the starship in The Fifth Element. Immediately below it, is a less overexposed version, for better comparing with the same image in older reviews. In the first image, I have left in part of the letterboxing, so you can see the basic black level more easily.

As you can see, the PLV-Z3000 has a long ways to go to catch the JVC RS2, in terms of black levels. The Sanyo's black levels are very good, but the least impressive of these high contrast projectors, most similar to the Panasonic, but not quite that good.

OK here's what many of you have been waiting for, side by side images for comparing black levels. I had the opportunity to shoot the PLV-Z3000 against the Panasonic, the Mitsubishi HC7000, and the Sony VPL-HW10. All three are more expensive projectors, with only the Panasonic close to the price of the Sanyo.