there are a lot of factors to consider when purchasing lcd or plasma. as a lot of others have stated light in a room is just one. if you have a lot of windows and outside light and most of your tv viewing will be or can be during the day then lcd is a winner. other factors to think about.....what sort of programs do you watch. a lot of sports? you may be happier with a plasma. plasma's also use a lot more power compared to lcd's. even though plasma's have gotten infinitely better over the years they still may have a tendency for burn in of still images. another consideration if kids will be playing video games on it etc.
overall, personal preference is the biggest key. take a look at both and see what is more visually appealing to you. try and look at both sets in all situations that you'd anticipate at home. instead of going to the big box stores hit up a few of the specialty home theater places in your area. they will have their screens properly calibrated so you get a good idea of what you're supposed to be looking at and how it's supposed to look. big box stores just pull them out of the box and plug them in. not saying you shouldn't buy there....just see full performance first. also see what the specialty guys can do for you...you'd be surprised at the deals they can give. i'm all for supporting the smaller local guy. the service that comes with your pre and post purchase is worth its weight in gold. oh and wherever you go...take a couple of your favourite dvd's...with scenes that you know inside and out....especially with dark/night scenes and see how they look on each set.
some other points to be weary of especiallly with lcd's.....get a set that has at least 120 hz refresh rate. some companies are claiming 240 but it's simulated. you won't get that ghosting if you watch fast action on the set. some manufacturers and unaware sales people are somewhat promoting "led" sets as some sort of new technology. they are just lcd's with led's in them. look for a set with local dimming. some new sets claim to have led dimming but are just placed around the edges. you want the ones that are placed across the entire panel. will work wonders for black levels.
oh and one last thing...since it's the only other thing i can think of at 3 am....hahah....720 is fine for most people.....however if you can afford the difference and the seating is going to be close to the screen then go for 1080. if i think of anything else....i'll chime in again....
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