Samsung and Vizio are both ranked at 3% failure rate in the latest CR for Plasmas / LCDs (Dec. 08). Amazing that Sanyo is at 1%.

Not a big Sammy fan either after having one of their mobile phones.

I had TERRIBLE luck with Samsung. I purchased a Samsung 46" 1080p LCD from CC after I moved my 42" Panasonic Plamsa into the bedroom last Christmas.

The first Samsung had terrible banding and pixelation so I took it back to CC. No problem, brought the second unit home, and after watching it about 2 nights, the LCD would not shut off no matter what I did. Call 800 help, they say it's a common problem and to take it back to CC. Take it back to CC, no problem, get a different Samsung model still 46". Bring it home, and literally the exact same issue - it would not turn off after a couple times turning it on.

I go back fuming and finally give up and get another Panasonic plasma and say screw LCDs and I could not be happier. In fact, it's about time to get a new set, and I'm seriously considering another plasma because the depth of color, brightness, smoothness, etc is so much better inch for inch dollar for dollar. The only downside - no PC input, slight possibility for burn in, and they're heavier (who cares once it's on the wall).

So.. what's the best LCD (46-50 ) out there for your $ ... ????? I was narrowing my choices to Samsung, Sony, Phillips or Sharp ......... :popcorn:

Who knows the best/real/only choice? :confused:

Whomever responds will like one over the other...

The AVS Forum has literally hundreds of pages of threads on
"best TV in 42" size, non-plasma", etc., etc.

I think it's a lot like cars, suits, et al...you have to spend some time
reading reviews, fwiw, and some serious time "looking" at your local
BB store. Play with the sets, bring your fave DVDs, adjust the freakin
"sunglasses req'd settings" most stores have them cranked up to, and
look some more. Then, a price/value thing comes into play and on and on.

No techie, but we spent weeks looking, 3 years ago. We got a 60"
SonyNoBaloney LCoS thin projection, 1080 and it is fookin amazing.
In the less than 60" size, there are multitudes out there.
My 50Ct is up...
GL,mD

Either of Sony, Panasonic or Sharp are good for LCD. If you buy from Costco the warranty is extended to 2 years and 90 day return no Qs asked.

From reading the reviews @ CNET, I would prefer to purchase either a Sony or Samsung LCD they both get top marks ..... Panansonic is more known for their plasma which I prefer not to buy due to glare problems on plasma's......

FYI, up to the middle of this year all Sony LCD screens were made by Samsung in their plant in Tangjeong, Korea............ whats more interesting is the fact that Sony recently ended their contract with Samsung in their procurement of the LCD screens, and have sign a new contract with Sharp ..... so basically a new Sony LCD will have Sharp screens ... hmmmm :whistle: that Costco deals sounds better by the minute......

^^Same is case with plasma screens too. Only very few manufacturers.
Sony does LCDs only now.

Too bad most industry is going this way..... we have seen this with auto mfg..... camry/es330 basically same veh. but for few extra grand you get a little more plush interior ..... its not good for the public in my opinion .... no competition

Dell has Sharp 1080p 42" LC42SB45U for $799 ($899-100 coupon: 0L?63G5GJ15G2Z)
Limited time only.
Edit: Forgot the linky: http://accessories.us.dell.com/sna/p...471&lid=566643

6ave.com has Panasonic TH-42PZ80U 42" 1080p Plasma HDTV for $849 - $42 (with code AFL5) = $807 with free shipping.