I'm in a similar position to you - I'm about to invest in my first PJ, but obviously want to make the right choice and it takes absolutely ages to audition them. You have to find a dealer who sells the particular model and then audition them one at a time.
All I can say is that I think it is worth taking the time. I've auditioned a number of DLP PJs (including Infocus 76 and 81, and SIM D80) and thought they were absolutely spectacular, except for the fact that I suffer from the rainbow effect, which I've decided makes DLP a non starter. I've seen a couple of older cheaper LCD PJs (can't remember the models) which weren't at all bad, but I think things have really improved since I auditioned them. In particular the ANSI contrast (ie. in picture contrast) on the 3000 has masively improved over the older model, so the gap in performance with DLP should in theory have really narrowed, and LCD has no rainbow effect, so in theory great for me.
I think I read on this website that the 3000 is being reviewed very soon, but I've come to the conclusion that with PJs you really MUST audition them at legnth yourself and not rush into a purchase, and use the reviews as a general guide (as recommended by WHF magazine). I was so close to buying the D80 after 10 minutes viewing, yet after half an hour I really began to get weary of the rainbow effect which in the end was a deal breaker. Different people have different responses to PJs and so much is dependent on the type of picture you want and what you will be watching. So my advice, having spent about 8 months trying to hunt down the 'perfect' PJ for my situation is, just go and audition the 3000 and see what you think.
I'm also eagerly awaiting the WHF review, but I've already booked an audition of the 3000. Let's hope it turns out to be as good as the specifications suggest it will be!