For fan noise... the JVC is damn had to even tell its on when it standard power mode. I mean sitting right next to it. In high power mode its louder but not really enough to really be distracting...

Pronto Macros... done both. NO PROBLEMS WITH EITHER! Both are very controllable. I don't mess with the aspect at the projector thou.

For Picture I preferred the JVC. I felt it looked better with all sources I threw at it. Plus the lack of an iris really gets some impressive contrast. I think the Sony appeared brighter but it wasn't as good at Whites next to Blacks.