Well after looking at sets I realize I'm just not that much of a videophile... I see differences but there seem to be more tradeoffs than one set being clearly better than any other, unless you're looking at top of the line models. For the size I got I'd be looking at 3x the price for a clearly superior picture.
So, I ended up with a 58" Panasonic S2 plasma for $1099. I had Best Buy price match so I could also get 36 mo zero interest, free delivery and set-up, and no questions return policy if I change my mind... my reservations are standard resolution material might be too noisy, Panasonic's picture has good detail and pop but not as good noise reduction compared to Samsung and LG IMO, and no individual gamma or color adjustments so if these issues bother me it can't be calibrated out. But reviews are very positive and I'm not super picky about pq so I think it'll work and is a good deal for the size.
