[markusp]

Hi everyone. First want to say that I love your site. I've read tons of threads over at the Arcam forum over the past year but have never posted before.

I just picked up a Sharp DT300 which is the same projector here in North America as the Sharp XV-Z200/201. I also own an Epson EMP-TW200H and am currently comparing the two. Since I don't watch a whole lot of Hi Def programming, the lack of 720p on the Sharp projector doesn't bother me.

Right of the bat, I love the smoothness and film like presentation of the Sharp over the Epson. DVDs seem to have more depth via DLP as opposed to LCD. The Epson has more vibrant colours and pop but I prefer the DLP presentation.

Here are where my questions come in. First of all, the Sharp projector is quite loud. The fan definitely sounds louder than the advertised 30 dB. On top of that, I seem to hear a high pitched whine which I assume is coming from the colour wheel. Is this normal? Have any of your experienced this?

My second question is about value. Quite subjective I know but I would like to know if you guys still like the Sharp and does it still compete in today's marketplace? Are you still happy with it's performance? I scored an unbelievable deal on my projector and am right now contemplating whether or not I can live with the whine I hear from it. Unfortunately, Sharp has checked out the projector and says everything is normal. I don't think I can step up to another DLP projector as I need a short throw lens and I also lost my shirt buying the Epson less than 8 months ago. Ease my mind, tell me everything is normal and that the Sharp is still a terrific projector

[Daftboy]

Own one, and would suggest to drob the DB you put the unit into eco mode.
This should also increase your contrast ratio.
High pitch is the colour wheel, but tends to be caused at certain frequencies.
I noticed it on mine putting SD inputs through the unit, but HD signals were fine.