Hi: I have not been around for the last several months(Health issues,Diabetic complications). I'm finally in a position to pull the trigger this week on a new TV,leaning heavily towards plasma(Panasonic) I watch alot of movies,sports,etc but open to others? from sitting about 8-9 feet would I notice a difference 720 vs 1080p even watching blu-ray on either a 42" or 50" ? Thanks and yes I'm actually finally buying the TV,and Blu-Ray player(Panasonic BD-55) and last but not least a new A/V stand(<$350) that can support my 45lbs Pioneer elite receiver!!. Where in Toronto is a good place to buy? Thanks for the help will post pics as soon as it is all set-up.Take everyone and enjoy the weekend.

I was helping my sister hunt down a new flat panel TV this past week. I must have spent 15 hours working on it (I know that over 5 of those hours were on the phone with her just the past 2 days)...

Anyway, she ended up getting a Panasonic 50" Plasma. The model number is: TH-50PX80U

It gets good reviews and will work wonderfully for her. It is 720p and boy oh boy did those sales folks try to talk her into 1080p even though she will be sitting about 9 feet away. 720p will work wonderfully and as many others will tell you, the human eye can't tell the difference at that size screen from that distance.

Sears has a sale going on right now which had the absolute best price, online or otherwise, on this TV. It sells most places for $1399, but they are selling it for $899, but that sale price ends tomorrow!

IF you, for some reason, think that you must have 1080p, it will cost you $1499 for that step in the Panasonic line. Go for it!

Hi Nick is that price in Canada???Thanks for the info. either way!!!

I personally don't believe you'll notice an ounce of difference between the the two resolutions on that size of a TV ... we've got a 42" Panny plasma in the bedroom and are very happy with the TV.

Sounds like it's all coming together for you, hope you are nipping your health issues in the bud.

Yes 720p for a TV that size will be gorgeous, you'll be glad you used some of that money on other equipment. 1080p continues to be the magic button for many people, and i've seen it pushed on 32" TVs.

+1 for the 50PX80U. My dad has that TV and it is a wonderful set.

Thanks Rick sorta licked the health problems on disability for now.Thanks for the good wishes

Glad you got the health issues behind you and are feeling better!

720p / 1080p isn't really a great difference unless you are using the TV as a monocle. From your seating distance, 720p will be dandy, especially if you are trying to save a buck. I have the 58" Panny (2 yrs old) and sit 13 feet away. Delightful. Blu-ray is breathtaking.

Some other thoughts.

The PS3 is a killer Blu-ray player that can also act as a media center. OH yeah - you can play games as well. Sonystyle has a promotion right now that if you sign up for a Visa, gets you a $100 credit on your account if you buy something for $299 or more. And free shipping. That's how I got mine.

Panny plasma. Don't know if you have considered their professional mointors. Cheaper than the consumer models because they don't have speakers or a tuner. Niehter of which matter if you are going to run everything through your 45 lb. Pioneer receiver and have a cable or satellite receiver.

The professional models end in "UK".

These folks sell the [professional models and get great marks for customer service and their prices are about the best. For these, you'll need to buy a stand or wall mount.

Newegg also does a great job and they sell the consumer units. Note the markdowns and free shipping.

Enjoy the process!

A quick search on redflagdeals.com turned up a 50" pani at $1,1xx

Redflag seems to be a good place to monitor for deals on stuff in Canada.

If I may, 720p is better than 1080i.Also bluray would be far more outstanding on 720p. I had 1080p upconversion dvd on my 1080i,and don't believe I could tell much difference between HD broadcast. I hope I have not intruded.

Doh! Should have said that Panny was at Costco.

Hi: Here is the update I've decided to go with the Panasonic TH-50PX80 will be getting it on the 19th(Damn waiting time #%&#@ LOL).Thank for the advice it was very helpful, first movie on blu-ray that I'm watching is "The Dark Knight". Thanks again

Good choice!

I can personally tell a difference between a 720p source and a 1080p source on my 1080p tv from 9 ft away (40 in. Bravia sony) This is one of the reasons I purchased a 1080P TV.

The difference is especially pronounced when I connect my computer to the television.

However, if you cannot tell a difference from demos for movies, and you do not use your computer with your television, then there is no reason for you to pay the extra money for 1080p.

schizm42: I did see a difference between the 1080p 50" vs the 720p (Mainly on Blu-Ray) however $$$$ played a role in my decision the $600 was not worth it to me.

Hi Everyone: I'm getting all my new toys Panasonic Plasma 50px80 TV,Panasonic Blu-Ray player(55,Tech-Craft Stand Saturday afternoon(Instead of the 19th!!!!Will post pic here when possible(I do not have a digital camera). Will be watching(After I buy them,Iron Man,The Dark Knight!!!!!YES!!!!) Oh by the way I'm not excited....nah not me!!!!

Congratulations. I am still a couple years away from purchasing a flat panel, so I am envious. Enjoy it over the holidays as much as possible.