I personally went with a 46" Toshiba DLP, bought the matching stand, DVD player, and saved the rest.
I am extremely happy with this decision a year later, and would only recommend a plasma over a DLP if you have space issues, or just want something that "looks" cool on your wall. Other than that, DLP!
I do agree about the comment on Pioneer Plasma. When I was doing my research, I was also lead to their lineup - particularly their "Elite" line because the body frame is black.