The Mitsubishi HC5500  is a definite step up from its predecessor, the HC4900. This entry-level 1080p home theater projector improves greatly upon the HC4900’s black level performance thanks to its dynamic iris, and shines with a stunningly high 14000:1 contrast ratio. The HC5500 boasts fast, smooth transitions between light and dark scenes and is incredibly quiet, operating at an outstanding 19 dBA. Brighter than most 1080p projectors and offering very good sharpness and detail, the HC5500 provides great, consistent images for maximum enjoyment. The HC5500 has the longest lamp life – up to 5000 hours – and, on top of all that, is complete with 2-year warranty.Check out how the Sanyo PLV-Z2000 fared in our comparison report. Click to read the head-to-head Sanyo PLV-Z2000 vs. Mitsubishi HC4900 projector comparison. Click to read the head-to-head Sanyo PLV-Z2000 vs. Panasonic PT-AE2000U projector comparison. 6/20/2006 - Art Feierman