7. Panasonic PTAE900U

The Panasonic PTAE900U and Sanyo PLVZ4 are the rival siblings of video projection. Launched virtually at the same time, and featuring the same price and the same functionality, the two rivals are locked in a struggle to the death to decide which is the best tri-LCD of the new year.

Just look at the features of the Panasonic: a new-generation 1280x720 matrix; automatic iris adjustment system; 12-bit color management; horizontal and vertical lens shift; a powerful zoom; and a short focal length that can display an 8-foot picture from only 8 feet away. It sounds exactly like a description of the Z4, doesn't it? And the onboard technologies won't really set the two apart either.

Panasonic's PTAE series has its own approach to esthetics. You either like the looks or you don't, but the unit is restrained and fits easily into any décor, and it's not too bulky to be set up on a shelf behind your couch. The fan is also so quiet that it won't be a factor in your decision.

On the back of the projector is the usual range of connectors: HDMI, YUV, S-Video, cinch, and VGA. As you can see, the PTAE900U has flexibility, and also ease of use, with the possible exception of the joystick used to adjust the lens shift. I find it much less practical than dials, because you have a tendency to move the image diagonally even when it's not necessary.

Sitting on the couch, the illuminated remote control fits your hand well, but some people might find the plethora of buttons a bother when feeling around for the main functions. On the other hand, it does let you control several audio/video devices, which can be nice if you already have a stack of units at your house.