BEST REAR PROJECTION HDTV??

Actually, the Diamond series from Mitsubishi is better than the Platinum. Not only a better exterior finish, but better lenses and screen. A 55" will run you anywhere from $3500-4500. I own one. But, I do agree that the Pioneer Elite is the best for the 5K price range. The difference between the Pioneer and the Mitsubishi are there, but not sure if worth the extra $1500-2000. For my money, the Mitsubishi was excellent.

i can get the pioneer elite pro 520 for $4k + $400 shipping. that's pretty good considering local retailer is asking $5400 but down to $4860 at best offer. after tax and delivery this is about $5200. i save $800 by going with the guy on audiogon. seems good, but does anyone know the difference between the 520 and 510? does anyone think it's worth it for the extra $$ to go pioneer elite vs mitsubishi? i've heard the pioneer has a much better line doubler when compared to the mits. any thoughts? baz

If you are running a progressive scan DVD player (with true 3-2 pulldown recommended) then you should not worry about the TVs internal line doubler as it will be disabled. Cable or satellite is another matter, but honestly the picture from those signals is questionable anyway (for regular TV viewing get a direct view set). The Pioneer uses slightly larger CRTs, which is a plus for HDTV signals. The Pioneer allows a 72 point convergence setting, while the Mitsubishi allows "only" 64 point convergence setting (honestly, this is more than enough to garranty an extremely sharp picture). But if you want THE best, and can get a good deal, then get the Pioneer. As soon as you get the TV home, call an ISF certified technician and have him/her come out to professionally calibrate your TV for color temperature and convergence ( this is not the menu system color selection, they will use special codes on the remote and sensors on the screen). This will cost you $150-250, and will be the best money you ever spent. I have not kept up with Pioneer's latest numbering system, so check out their website for info. As a side note, an ISF calibrated Mitsubishi and Pioneer should perform nearly identically for all DVD related material and about 90% of all HDTV signals. Others may disagree, but then again, your eyes will make the final choice. Good luck.

I agree with Argent, his comments are identical to mine. I have an Elite 510 but agree that digital cable is better on my 36XBR400. A 520 for $4000 is an incredible deal. Jump on it. The Elites are the best rptv's period. Bazmataz, you may be able to get another set nearly as good for less, but your deal is so good the Elite is cost effective for you.

To clarify, I meant that the Mitsubishi should perform almost as good as the Pioneer for most HDTV applications after a proper calibration.