whats the best, cheapest hd home theater projector?

I think you might want to strongly consider the Panasonic PT-AE900U Home theater projector. After many days of thorough research, I was able to narrow it down to two models. The Sanyo Z4, and the Panasonic PT-AE900U. I compared specs, went to the stores to see the display, checked out every website, and then went with the Panasonic. The incredibly rich blacks (it has a 5500:1 contrast ratio) and colors, the massive size that I am able to project, and pretty much everything else about the PT-AE900U is awesome. You will not be disappointed!!

I bought it (after much research) at http://www.proviewdigital.com/ .They shipped it same day, and were very professional on the phone. No problems at all. I was a bit worried about whether or not I would end up getting my rebate (Panasonic is currently offering an amazing $400 cash plus $300 gift card rebate), but it came in the mail in just 4 weeks.

Just a note about "leverson101".... Those projectors are not even on the same planet as these two that I have mentioned. And after the rebate for the 900U it's almost the same price!!!

Hope this helps.

If you are looking for a great projector at a reasonable cost, look at the projectors labeled for computer use. There is no need to pay 3000 for a projector that is a dumbed down version of a one that costs less.

Mitsubishi, Toshiba, Sharp, and many others make DLP projectors labeled as home office or computer use, that have identical inputs (DVI, VGA, Component) as their more expensive home theater brothers. The best part is, that because they are not designed to be used only in dark rooms (like the home theater projectors) they are actually much brighter, and you can use them with the window shades up.

Try looking at these to get you started:

InFocus IN26 XGA DDR DMD DLP Projector

Toshiba TDP-T99U XGA DMD DLP Projector

InFocus IN24 SVGA DMD DLP Projector

All are HD and under 1000 dollars.

I hope this was helpful.

*added after seeing "noodles" response. His pick is a great projector. Nice contrast ratio, but it is half as bright as the ones i listed. The contrast ratio would do you no good unless you always used it in a dark room. If this is your plan, it is a better choice. The ones listed above are resonable quality budget projectors. I would consider the ViewSonic PJ656 to compeate with his panasonic. And as always see what you think looks best before you buy.

Probably trhe Sharp XV-Z2000. Its a DLP unit, its very bright, small, and can be found for about $3000.