Sanyo PLV-Z5 Projector Sharpness

Posted on November 2, 2006 by Art Feierman

Sanyo PLV-Z5 Projector Sharpness

Wow! This is an area where the Sanyo truly excels. I really can't think of a projector anywhere near its price that can produce a sharper image on Hi-Def DVD's or HDTV. Since many people considering the Sanyo Z5 are also considering the Panasonic PT-AX100U, I'll start you off with a direct comparison. Of these two images, the first is from the Sanyo PLV-Z5, the second, the Panasonic PT-AX100U. Both are shots from HDTV, of my cable guide. When you click on each, you will see a closeup of a very small area, at the bottom. Two things are noticeable: The Sanyo, is visibly sharper, and you can also start making out some of the pixels, since the area of the screen is so small. With the Panny, no chance of spotting pixels, thanks to their Smooth Screen technology, but, the price paid is definite softness.

The Sanyo Z5

The Panasonic PT-AX100U

Back to a typical movie image, however. The top one is a small section from the Phantom Image above, of Carlota, on the Sanyo PLV-Z5. The lower one, from the Panasonic:

We're not talking "night and day" differences, but the difference is there (note they are slightly different frames and cropping).

From the Phantom Image, of Carlota, on the Sanyo PLV-Z5

from the Phantom Image above, of Carlota, on the Panasonic