New tv?


Well it looks like the not so old Samsung 50 inch plasma is on its last legs. It has a blue vertical band running down the left side and repair folks are telling me it is likely the display panel which cost as much or more than a new TV to repair. So what are you folks liking these days as the best TV for home theater? This is a set up with an oppo 103 and NAD integrated amp and Sonus fabar toy towers. We are looking for a 55 inch set and are wondering if plasma is still the best way to go? As always thanks for any suggestions.
audiowoman
So which screen is the best if money doens't matter?

In my world this is the Samsung 64F8500 plasma. Even over the VT60 and ZT60 from Panasonic.......why?

To all the parts which are there to Judge for a screen it is more complete and more stunning to watch. WHich are these parts?

- wenn it is off the Samsung is superior to look at. The shape and material ( blue steel) of the F8500 is a lot more high quality compared to the cheaper look and material use of the Panasonic ZT60 and VT60.

- white is a lot cleaner and more realistic
to the less white of the Pannasonic.

- The image is sharper. The extra light output makes it more easy to see more information.

- the extra light output gives you stunning image even at daylight. Even at maximum sun blacks are still inky black. I never have seen a screens which this dynamic blacks even at daytime.

- the extra light output give an even more 3-d image.

- The extra light output give you the best realistic feeling in watching video what was shot during daytime. This gives me a big smile wenn I am aware how special this is. The Panasonic misses this part and it does more than most people think.

- menu settings are easier to use and more advanged compared to Panasonic there menu

- I was amazed that I like this screen for app and internet use. Panasonic is far away from this level in use.

* Watching tv and video never was this thrilling. For the higher quality it gives it is a bargan for the pleasure it can give. I CAN SAY; I LOVE MY SAMSUNG 64 INCH F8500.
I did test many hdmi cables and there is one wich is superior to all I test. It is not cheap. Maybe even the most expensive one you can buy. But in audio and in picture it is the absolute king: Audioquest Diamond hdmi pure silver. It gives you even more light output. Sounds crazy but after you test it and compared it you understand. Also in definition and in blacks it is f...awesome!
Audiowoman, I found this album since Christian McBride (Bass) plays on it: Danilo Perez (Piano) "Across The Crystal Sea" (NICE) It turned out to have Cassandra Wilson sing on two tracks, which had Initially SOLD me on her, hence I had to go for your recommendation. (VERY NICE) The Ikea racks will hold much more and for much le$$. The "Black and Blue" will be very cool together!! Reminds me of the Gino Vannelli song title, which is the on only G.V. album I'd actually suggest. "A Pauper In Paradise"
I've seen both the 65" Panny ZT and the 64" Samsung PS64F500 at a local Best Buy.

The Sansung is brighter (I checked to make sure the brightness levels were the same on each TV). They both have exceptional picture quality, clearly better than the LEDs nearby.

If I had a dark room I'd buy the Panny, though it'd be only to get the extra 1" diagonal.

Since my room is pretty bright during the day, I'm going to get the Samsung during the black friday sales. Well, that's my plan anyway...