I have been looking at Plasma TV's

Looking at 50"

I have always been a Sony boy - But the price is out of reach.

I have then looked at Panasonic, Philips, Hitachi and Samsung.  Out of these, Philips and Samsung had by far the clearer crisper bighter picture.  I even changed leads on the TV's in currys today to compare and check.

Now, I have looked at HD, and do want this, but can also see that a 'full HD' 1080 screen is far more expensive than a standard HD.  I am likely doing to opt for a standard HD.

The Samsung is looking the best deal and quality, and is priced at £1099 in both Comet, Currys and Dixons.  I have found a site online selling it for £825 with £69 delivery, and the option of 9 months interest free credit (which TBH at this price isn't to much of an issue currently).

I dont want to go the next step up to the HD 1080 and fork out £1300 plus when I can get a decent screen for £800!

This is my only niggle - the 1080 vers standard HD.

Thoughts anyone?

The new Pioneer Kuro looks v. good but is circa £2700-£3300. The Panasonic is better price wise.

Watch out for the exact model number with any make - sometimes very slight changes make a big difference. Don't pay full price for last years model. Things like contrast get improved.

John Lewis also do price matching. Might be worth finding the best price on the internet/locally then see if JL will match it. They don't claim to match internet prices but my sister in law got a good deal that way on kitchen appliances. If they say no then ask what their best price would be. Might come close enough. Find out if any internet sellers are based locally.

PS. Nobody is broadcasting 1080p yet and might not for years so only source of 1080p is HD/Blueray DVD player.

The 96 is the old model.  I have just got the 97 for £789 after a phone call.

I know it is too late but I have been told there is only 1 50" telly to own at the moment (in the sensible price bracket), that being a Pioneer. I own a 40" Samsung (which I love).
I would get the 1080p (Full HD) personally.
Z