Originally posted by: Kwad Guy
Concensus among those with a critical eye is that video quality of the 5xxx series is about on a par with the original (2000, 3000, Showstopper) lines, and better than the 4xxx series units. The progressive out on the 5xxx units is supposedly an insignificant improvement.
On the other hand, quality control of the 4xxx units is supposedly much better. A lot of problems with the 5xxx units.
You can buy a used/old-stock Showstopper or 2xxx/3xxx series Replay and get the best of both worlds: Good video and good quality control (plus free service). But you don't get ethernet or commercial advance.
Kwad
Well I have a pretty critical eye, and I found the 5xxx to have the best quality. Its processor was just better at handling fast movement, or smokey scenes. I found my showstopper to be a little better than the 45xx. But seriously, the PQ difference in all three really isn't that big of a diff. I think only a few would notice/care. If you have a big screen, go with the 5xxx.
I really wouldn't spend the money to get an old SS or 3000 on ebay, as it will cost you just as much to get one, as it would to get a 5xxx with lifetime. Considering with the 5xxx you get a warranty as well as all the new features, I think it is a no brainer.
Yes the 5xxx, including mine, had some problems when it first came out, but most of those have been ironed out, and will continue to be ironed out.
I still use my SS in the bedroom, and I still love it, but I find that the 5xxx is more respnsive. When you press a button (pause for example) it pauses on the spot, while SS will take a split second or so to do so. I just think the 5xxx is ore responsive. The one thing the SS does better is change channels. It can change the channel in 3 second, while the 5xxx takes 7. I found the 45xx to take about 6 seconds. Another thing is the SS does not have a fan and the 5xxx does. Although my fan is pretty quiet, I can't really imagine having it in my quiet bedroom. That may be a problem for some, may not be for others. Kind of depends how quiet your room is, and how close to the TV you sleep.