UPDATE: Panny won out. I ordered a couple 85Us yesterday. It was a toss up for most of the race however, the Sammy was very good looking but the anti-glare and supposed better IR resistance of the Panny (oh the slightly better blacks also) won out in the end.

I'm spending my $ based on this.

OK here are the two picks:

Panasonic Viera TH-50PZ85U 50" 1080p

Samsung PN50A550 50-inch 1080p


I'll let you all pick for. Isn't that gracious?

+1 for the Panasonic TH-50PZ85U

Samsung is not a good plasma. Not too long ago Consumer Reports ranked Vizio as better than Samsung.

Panasonic is a good solid plamsa.

They are both beautiful. I would vote for the Panny.

i'm about to bite the bullet on the TH-50PZ85U any day now. Just hoping for an EPP price drop in the near future.

got a samsung 4 series....its amazing. I'd get it. Although i think 1080p is a waste.

Not too long ago Consumer Reports ranked Vizio as better than Samsung.



C.R. is not really a valid ranking system to me. I'd take a Samsung over 2 Vizios. They base their rankings heavily on price rather than quality.

Reguardless of that, the Panasonic would be an easy choice for me.

Panasonic!

I voted panasonic, though the samsung is nice too. Good luck, enjoy.

I voted Panasonic and am about to pull the trigger on one myself. I'm toying with the idea of the 80u, though. I don't need the PC input and I'm not sure how much difference the contrast ratio will make.

Cnet calls the 550 the best non-Kuro plasma on the market.

Samsung is a clear leader for things like inputs, flexibility in terms of signal it'll accept, advanced picture adjustments, color, etc. Black levels may not be quite as good as the Panasonic though.

Whatever the outcome I don't think it's smart to buy based on a poll.

Cnet calls the 550 the best non-Kuro plasma on the market.

Samsung is a clear leader for things like inputs, flexibility in terms of signal it'll accept, advanced picture adjustments, color, etc. Black levels may not be quite as good as the Panasonic though.

Whatever the outcome I don't think it's smart to buy based on a poll.

Well normally I'd agree with you. However, being that both these are so well received I don;t think I can go wrong.

Samsung is not a good plasma. Not too long ago Consumer Reports ranked Vizio as better than Samsung.
Panasonic is a good solid plamsa.

C.R. is not really a valid ranking system to me. I'd take a Samsung over 2 Vizios. They base their rankings heavily on price rather than quality.
Reguardless of that, the Panasonic would be an easy choice for me.

I have to agree with G-force here. I've never trusted CR. Back in the early-mid 80's they routinely ranked other sets above Sony Trinitrons. The Trinitrons we're so far ahead it was a joke.

No You Cant, but apparently these new samsungs are pretty sick. and as a matter of fact, from a recent top ten list i saw through i believe cnet, samsungs had 4 or 5 units in there top 10...

I just bought a new pioneer 5080 for about $200-$400 less than what those are going for. So, not that i am biased or basically ignoring the poll, but for the pic quality i would forget the 1080p and go with a pio. If i did have to pick between the sammy and the panny it would be the panny.
I don't know the pq difference between the TH-50PZ85U and the TH-50PZ750, but here is a cool head to head review where the panny and pio smash the competition.
http://www.hometheatermag.com/lcds/208hdface/index.html

C.R. is not really a valid ranking system to me. I'd take a Samsung over 2 Vizios. They base their rankings heavily on price rather than quality.

Reguardless of that, the Panasonic would be an easy choice for me.

I would completely disagree with this statement. Price is a consideration but in no way does it out weigh reliability/quality. Just look at their updated rankings online - best 50" plasma Pio, best 58"+ plasma Panny. I believe the top LCD rankings are Sony/Samsung.

If they like a Visio over a lessor model Samsung doesn't mean they rate price over quality/pq.

In the interest of full disclosure I did vote for Samsung in the poll.

No You Cant, but apparently these new samsungs are pretty sick. and as a matter of fact, from a recent top ten list i saw through i believe cnet, samsungs had 4 or 5 units in there top 10...

Yes the new Samsungs do seem very impressive. I've always though that Samsung's user controls and inputs were just light years beyond Panasonic (plus no nickle and diming nonsense like the VGA input not taking 1080p). Hopefully this year the panels themselves will also be competitive with Panasonic.

I would think we can muster more votes than 30+.

Are the user controls on the Panny bad? The comments on the Samsung would lead one to believe so.

I would think we can muster more votes than 30+.

Are the user controls on the Panny bad? The comments on the Samsung would lead one to believe so.

Panasonic is a hundred times better than Samsung. The user controls on a Panasonic are very easy to use. There is a picture menu where you can adjust contrast, brightness, color, tint, ect. There is a set up menu where one press of the button scans for all available channels. You can edit the channel line-up. Panasonic is very easy to operate and they have a better picture quality.

The Samsung gives you more control over the picture settings, which many here at AVS appreciate.

The Sammy has probably the most accurate primary and secondary colors of any plasma on the market. The virbrant colors will make this set stand out over the Panny. The only drawbacks are reflection and blacks are not "the best", but still very, very good. The picture adjustments on Samsungs are the best on the market as well. Don't get me wrong, the Panny is a great plasma. Panasonic seems to have the majority of fanboys at the moment, so dare to be different, don't conform to the norm!
++ The 550 is much sexier looking! /drool

Samsung is not a good plasma. Not too long ago Consumer Reports ranked Vizio as better than Samsung.

Panasonic is a good solid plamsa.

I see you still have love for Sammies. And to think I missed ya! :eek::D

Well Fr John, based on the poll you ought to be buying a Panny. Let us know how things go. :cool:

The Sammy has probably the most accurate primary and secondary colors of any plasma on the market.
what is your source for this information? i haven't heard much talk on this topic.

[QUOTE]what is your source for this information? i haven't heard much talk on this topic./QUOTE]

CNET for one, the 550 owners thread has alot of posts about this as well.

Well Fr John, based on the poll you ought to be buying a Panny. Let us know how things go. :cool:

Well I think I ought to give it at least one day! I am leaning that direction though.

[QUOTE]what is your source for this information? i haven't heard much talk on this topic./QUOTE]

CNET for one, the 550 owners thread has alot of posts about this as well.

How much money did CNET take from Samsung when reviewing their product?

Consumer Reports took NO money from Samsung or Vizio when they ranked Vizio as better than Samsung.

The picture adjustments on Samsungs are the best on the market as well. Don't get me wrong, the Panny is a great plasma. Panasonic seems to have the majority of fanboys at the moment, so dare to be different, don't conform to the norm!
++ The 550 is much sexier looking! /drool

Two words... Panasonic Pro. Oh wait does that make me a fanboy..? Damn!:mad:

The vote is a blow out. Panasonic is crushing Samsung.

Two words... Panasonic Pro. Oh wait does that make me a fanboy..? Damn!:mad:

Is there a comparable 1080p set?

Is there a comparable 1080p set?

Yes... and it might be cheaper. ;)

The vote is a blow out. Panasonic is crushing Samsung.

Quite frankly this is not surprising since most here are Pioneer and Panasonic fans.

Yes... and it might be cheaper. ;)

OK, you lost me....

OK, you lost me....

I don't know current prices, but when I was shopping a year ago the consumer version cost more than the professional version.

Is there a comparable 1080p set?

uuhhh, 50PF10UKA 1080p pro model.

The pro models no longer offer a "value" proposition over the consumer models. the TH-50PF10UK is approximately the same or even a little more than the TH-50PZ85U through reputable web vendors.

The Samsung gives you more control over the picture settings, which many here at AVS appreciate.

+1

1. Much better user controls is a very favorable thing in the samsung and a real shame that panny reserves that only for the very expensive 850 line.
2. Also given that it's colors are more accurate to rec709 than the panasonic, thats a plus.
3. Also it correctly deinterlaces 1080i 3:2 material unlike the 85u (useful for 1080i broadcast sources like HBO, Showtime, Discovery, etc)

The area where the 85u beats the A550 is better black levels (and better AR I believe).....

There may be other features (sound, ports, etc) but I am focusing mainly on PQ here....

But even given all the above 550 advantages it's still a tough call imho (even though logically it shouldn't be :)), am also considering these two (and the 800u) and have not found it easy deciding myself.....

+1

1. Much better user controls is a very favorable thing in the samsung and a real shame that panny reserves that only for the very expensive 850 line.
2. Also given that it's colors are more accurate to rec709 than the panasonic, thats a plus.
3. Also it correctly deinterlaces 1080i 3:2 material unlike the 85u (useful for 1080i broadcast sources like HBO, Showtime, Discovery, etc)

The area where the 85u beats the A550 is better black levels (and better AR I believe).....

There may be other features (sound, ports, etc) but I am focusing mainly on PQ here....

But even given all the above 550 advantages it's still a tough call imho (even though logically it shouldn't be :)), am also considering these two (and the 800u) and have not found it easy deciding myself.....

You also forgot the Sammy has better processing and noise reduction as well.

IMO, go with the Sammy. I don't think your poll is gonna get a fare shake. There are a lot fanboys with blinders on trolling around here.

you can get a new series4 Sammy 50" plasma for $1200ish, i paid $1299EU. I couldnt be happier. Options for tweaking in the menu GALORE. Not that you even would need it, its already amazin out of the box. See cnet review. The only thing they "complain" are the little worse black levels compared to some other sets (Kuro?)...but i really cant complain, also the blacks are awesome, subjectively speaking. Colors, noise reduction....etc..etc...in addition the new series 4 also has a feature "3d Ready" which might be a gadget for some, and an interesting bonus for others.

I bought the Sammy mainly because i found out about this "3d Ready" feature, and i use 3D shutter glasses and also connect the TV to the PC, once in a while. As a monitor its just outstanding....however usual "concerns" in regards to burn-in apply.

For $1200 a kicka$$ deal...and i think some people are just desperately looking for flaws if (in fact)..there are none and when they claim "Samsung Bad - Panny Good" etc...

http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/samsung-pn50a550/4505-6482_7-32887581.html?tag=prod.txt.1

I respect the knowledge base and unbiased nature of CNET's David Katzmaier's reviews.

He seems to think that, aside from black levels, the Samsung is the winner between these two plasmas.

I own a Panasonic TH-50PZ700U...I am very pleased with my Panny.

The picture quality gap amongst plasma manufacturers seems to be narrowing...so, buy one and enjoy it!

1. I am the owner of the 50PZ80U and I think the Pannie's are lacking in user controls. Even the ISF Calibrators state the the individual RGB color gamma is not adjustable in the SM which to me is a big drawback, as I have a Red push which is noticeable on any white or light blue screen. I also have a uniformity problem that I believe is a defect and am still thinking of returning it. (do a search for red/green tint) it appears that some people with the 1080P Panasonics have seen this. On the plus side the blacks are good and lack of IR are it's strengths. But the lack of user controls is a put off for me. Their customer service reputation and the smokin' deal I got was why I bought it.

2. Samsung does not have as good of blacks IMO and from what I can tell it lacks fans which doesn't make sense as excessive heat is a killer for electronics. I love the style of the 550 and am considering it as well. Their customer service doesn't have as good of reputation, but you hope you never have to use it. They have the best set of user controls and PIP which may or may not be desirable as well as having PC input.

I'm in the same boat as you at this point in time and I agree that Panasonic appears to have more fans, but I haven't read about the problems that last years Samsungs were plagued with (judder and green sparklies) so I would buy which ever one you like the best, and after you get it home, run the plasma dvd and check the screens for color uniformity and push. Don't be surprised if you have to return it whatever brand you buy as that seems to be the most consistent about both brands is the lack of consistency in the manufacturing process.

Just my .02.
Good luck and post back on which one you buy.

2. Samsung does not have as good of blacks IMO and from what I can tell it lacks fans which doesn't make sense as excessive heat is a killer for electronics.

Have you felt a high power amp or receiver? With proper design and heatsinks, fans are not necessary.

Samsung is not a good plasma. Not too long ago Consumer Reports ranked Vizio as better than Samsung.

Panasonic is a good solid plamsa.

Yet another reason why C.R. is not where to get yuor display info from. ;)

[QUOTE=burgboy9999;13927182]

How much money did CNET take from Samsung when reviewing their product?

Consumer Reports took NO money from Samsung or Vizio when they ranked Vizio as better than Samsung.

So you are accusing all other pro reviewers of being bought off, except for the wise C.R. staff? LOL.

I would think we can muster more votes than 30+.

Are the user controls on the Panny bad? The comments on the Samsung would lead one to believe so.

I would call them bad, yes. The RGB controls are only accessible in the service menu, the color decoder is inaccurate and cannot be adjusted at all, no way to turn off underscan for 720p signals, no input-specific settings for "cinema" mode which is the only one with gamma that's even close to correct...etc.

I would call them bad, yes. The RGB controls are only accessible in the service menu, the color decoder is inaccurate and cannot be adjusted at all, no way to turn off underscan for 720p signals, no input-specific settings for "cinema" mode which is the only one with gamma that's even close to correct...etc.

Can I take it then that your vote would be for the Sammy? My only concerns with the Sammy are the Blacks and reflections.

Can I take it then that your vote would be for the Sammy? My only concerns with the Sammy are the Blacks and reflections.

I voted for the Samsung, yes. This is something that you should decide yourself though, and I don't know exactly how close the blacks are to the Panasonics.

And as for reflections, it seems to me that if you're going to have a problem with them, you'll have a problem with all glossy-screen displays.

Can I take it then that your vote would be for the Sammy? My only concerns with the Sammy are the Blacks and reflections.

The blacks are very good to excellent on these Sammies. Are they measurabely the best, no. Picture quality encompasses many things however including black level. While important, it is no more important than color accuracy, details, brightness, etc IMO.
That said you should let your eyes decide because regardless of what's said here, you'll be the one paying for and watching your TV.

Go with the samsung. It's just sexier looking.

Just got back from yet another jaunt to BB (I really don't like BB but what ya gonna does?).

Settings aside, the two sets were very hard to tell apart. To be honest I'm completely torn.

Panny: better blacks (noticeable on some of the feed), seems to have a more reliable history, supposedly better IR handling and better anti-reflect.

Sammy: nicer bezel by far, looked punchier (not overly so), supposedly much better color settings and reproduction. Clearly less noise than the Panny.

My biggest concern on the Sammy is the reliability and the IR handling.

This is getting harder not easier.

Just got back from yet another jaunt to BB (I really don't like BB but what ya gonna does?).

Settings aside, the two sets were very hard to tell apart. To be honest I'm completely torn.

Panny: better blacks (noticeable on some of the feed), seems to have a more reliable history, supposedly better IR handling and better anti-reflect.

Sammy: nicer bezel by far, looked punchier (not overly so), supposedly much better color settings and reproduction. Clearly less noise than the Panny.

My biggest concern on the Sammy is the reliability and the IR handling.

This is getting harder not easier.

I wouldn't worry about the IR it's not permanent, probably not visible form your normal viewing distance and should fade over time.

Don't underestimate the aesthetics, you have to look at when its off as well.

Can I take it then that your vote would be for the Sammy? My only concerns with the Sammy are the Blacks and reflections.

You should also worry about Samsung breaking and about banding issues and the constant need to upgrade firmware. Panasonic is much more reliable.

You should also worry about Samsung breaking and about banding issues and the constant need to upgrade firmware. Panasonic is much more reliable.

:D:D:D
doogie, you truly are a piece of work :D

I can't believe I'm saying this, but instead of being excited about a new display (after having watched and funky 19" for the last several months) I'm getting discouraged.

I can't believe I'm saying this, but instead of being excited about a new display (after having watched and funky 19" for the last several months) I'm getting discouraged.
if you buy one of the big three (pioneer, panasonic, samsung), you're getting a quality display. why not just choose the one that looks best to YOU that fits in YOUR budget.

people will vote and comment with their own personal biases, propping up one brand and disparaging another to validate their own purchasing decisions. this poll is unscientific and useless. only you can decide.

^^^ Exactly G-star

if you buy one of the big three (pioneer, panasonic, samsung), you're getting a quality display. why not just choose the one that looks best to YOU that fits in YOUR budget.

people will vote and comment with their own personal biases, propping up one brand and disparaging another to validate their own purchasing decisions. this poll is unscientific and useless. only you can decide.

+1 A lot of the stuff we post here is petty bickering because we are self conscious of all the money we spend. Samsung and Panasonic both make good displays and I think we Panasonic owners tend to overblow the Samsung flaws and vice versa with Samsung owners. In reallity I'm pretty sure anyone that owns either would happily trade one for the other and still be satisfied.

I think it's worth pointing out that the noise issue on the Panasonics is a lot better, if not gone, once the set is properly setup (cinema, contrast, warm). I think that the noise is introduced due to methods Panasonic chose to achieve higher contrast on this year's models,(Still looks good to me during the day) because if you choose cinema the contrast is limited artificially. However color temperature as others have stated seems a bit off but not overly so to diminish PQ. The Samsung's IR issues will also be way better once the TV is broken in and the colors on this TV can be calibrated more accurately than the Panasonic's, however gray scale isn't as accurate so that's a tradeoff you have to make.

I owned the 50PZ85U for 30 days before returning it for a Samsung 58A550. Between the two, I'd take the Samsung A550. If it was the PZ800 vs the A550/A650, then I'd lead to the PZ800 given it's color accuracy.

Black levels are slightly better (supposedly) on the PZ85U from CNet and other reports, personally I can't recall whether they were better or not. The reflective screen was better on the 85U. But the accuracy of colors on the Samsungs vs the 85U really stands out IMO and is where the Samsung shines. The 85U just has too much red push and over saturated greens (which can't be fixed, without turning the color level too low IMO).

I'm still debating whether to return my A550 and just dive into the deepend for the Pioneer if the blacks are that much better. Coming from CRT RPTV, the black levels are sub par comparably.

My 2 cents.

Well, polls aside, I'm pretty set on the Panny. I stopped at Sears yet again to compare these sets (actually the 80U since they don't stock the 85). Though they were very close, the blacks on the Panny were more than notable and made for a better picture all around. I simply haven't had enough in store time to notice any red push, it may be there, I've just not noticed it.

I haven't ordered yet so I may change my mind, we'll see. I post what the final decision is for anyone interested.

I'll throw my vote to the Panny only because the older models seem to be more reliable than the Samsung models.

If you decide on the Sammy though I would wait a few months & see if any problems show up on it & you never know Samsung may have corrected all their problems from last year & maybe Panny will have new problems after jacking the Contrast Ratio on their new models?

A few months ago I wanted to buy the Sammy 4264 as a gift for my daughter because it had great features like P-I-P, USB Input, 2nd Ant. Input, 3rd HDMI Input, Headphone Jack & etc that the Panny din't have but I was just too affraid after reading about all the board swaps & etc on Samsung's so it was a no brainer for me when Costco blew out the price on the Panny 42" PZ700 so that's what I ended up getting her.

If I had to buy a TV today for myself it would be either a Panasonic or a Pioneer & dare I say it, if the specs. & RELIABILITY turn out to be alright I might even go with a new THX LG.

I'll throw my vote to the Panny only because the older models seem to be more reliable than the Samsung models.

If you decide on the Sammy though I would wait a few months & see if any problems show up on it & you never know Samsung may have corrected all their problems from last year & maybe Panny will have new problems after jacking the Contrast Ratio on their new models?

A few months ago I wanted to buy the Sammy 4264 as a gift for my daughter because it had great features like P-I-P, USB Input, 2nd Ant. Input, 3rd HDMI Input, Headphone Jack & etc that the Panny din't have but I was just too affraid after reading about all the board swaps & etc on Samsung's so it was a no brainer for me when Costco blew out the price on the Panny 42" PZ700 so that's what I ended up getting her.

If I had to buy a TV today for myself it would be either a Panasonic or a Pioneer & dare I say it, if the specs. & RELIABILITY turn out to be alright I might even go with a new THX LG.

Hold on a minute here. Where are you getting this notion that Samsungs are less reliable than Panasonics much less Pioneer? It certainly can't be from this forum because you'll see numerous complaints for both Panasonic and Pioneer.
My opinion here is all 3 and even LG have roughy the same reliability.
Unless you can cite something that has some statistical facts, your post is hogwash! :eek:

I'll throw my vote to the Panny only because the older models seem to be more reliable than the Samsung models.

This is true. I have not seen a Panasonic returned to Sam's Club, but I have seen people returning Samsung. It can't be fun to repackage a 50" plasma and carry it back to the store.

Samsung also likes to release plasmas with bad firmware and then require the owner to flash their Samsung plasma. Some people can't do this so they return the Samsung.

This is true. I have not seen a Panasonic returned to Sam's Club, but I have seen people returning Samsung. It can't be fun to repackage a 50" plasma and carry it back to the store.

Samsung also likes to release plasmas with bad firmware and then require the owner to flash their Samsung plasma. Some people can't do this so they return the Samsung.

Well doogie, I haven't seen any firmware updates for my '07 Samsung, not that I need one.
So doogie, I guess the people here reporting Panny problems are to be ignored? :cool:

Power consumption, the Panasonic is around 650W, what about the Samsung ?

Power consumption, the Panasonic is around 650W, what about the Samsung ?

.. last post:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1032302

This is true. I have not seen a Panasonic returned to Sam's Club, but I have seen people returning Samsung. It can't be fun to repackage a 50" plasma and carry it back to the store.

Samsung also likes to release plasmas with bad firmware and then require the owner to flash their Samsung plasma. Some people can't do this so they return the Samsung.

I returned 3,yes 3, th50pe700u's(stuck/dead pixels) to Costco if that counts.

I returned 3,yes 3, th50pe700u's(stuck/dead pixels) to Costco if that counts.

Not true. Panasonic has high quality standards. They are tested before being shipped. I don't believe you.

Not true. Panasonic has high quality standards. They are tested before being shipped. I don't believe you.

:D:D:D

Dead pixels occur after use, testing before owner use does nothing for that.
Kuro's can get dead pixels as well.
Also, it doesn't mean Panasonic is unreliable.

Not true. Panasonic has high quality standards. They are tested before being shipped. I don't believe you.

In case anyone else has concerns yes it is possible Here is a thread I stated about it:http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1002960

I discussed it and posted some pics on the 700u thread around about here:http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13373349&highlight=kagolu#post13373349

Doogie, get a clue, there is now way you will ever become a functioning/contributing member of society when you are this ignorant.

Dead pixels occur after use, testing before owner use does nothing for that.
Kuro's can get dead pixels as well.
Also, it doesn't mean Panasonic is unreliable.

Etu eagles? Well, I suppose there's no surprise there!
Well Fr. John given the recent post, if you want the perfectly reliable plasma get the Panasonic, for the perfect or near perfect plasma PQ get the Pioneer.
Avoid Samsung at all cost. Their brand is still being engineered and built by humans and we all know how imperfect they are! :cool:

Doogie, get a clue, there is now way you will ever become a functioning/contributing member of society when you are this ignorant.

kagolu, every village needs one :D

Dead pixels occur after use, testing before owner use does nothing for that.
Kuro's can get dead pixels as well.
Also, it doesn't mean Panasonic is unreliable.

I agree, I think Panny is a reliable mfg. I am considering the the 800u.

kagolu, every village needs one :D

Unfortunately your right.:)

My vote is PZ85 for more contrast and colors.

Seems to me that one nice thing about an HDTV is to show your digital photos fresh out of the camera. The Panasonic has an SD card input that lets you do that. I don't think the Samsung has such a feature.

Etu eagles? Well, I suppose there's no surprise there!
Well Fr. John given the recent post, if you want the perfectly reliable plasma get the Panasonic, for the perfect or near perfect plasma PQ get the Pioneer.
Avoid Samsung at all cost. Their brand is still being engineered and built by humans and we all know how imperfect they are! :cool:

I voted for the Samsung between these two models on day two of the thread........suprise :)

I was thinking of getting the samsung myself but this thread might change my choice. Panasonic is killing samsung on the voting.

I was thinking of getting the samsung myself but this thread might change my choice. Panasonic is killing samsung on the voting.

I'd look at both first, polls like this are pretty unscientific and don't really mean too much. If anything it just proves Panasonic has made a name for themselves with plasmas and less so Samsung. However this year's Samsungs look much better than their previous offerings. I went for the PZ85U myself but you might think differently.

Seems to me that one nice thing about an HDTV is to show your digital photos fresh out of the camera. The Panasonic has an SD card input that lets you do that. I don't think the Samsung has such a feature.

Most cameras have a USB (or mini-usb) connection to off-load pictures, the Samsung has a USB connection aswel. I'm pretty sure that you'll be able to hook-up your camera (with an SD chip containing your photo's in it), you will probably be able to view your pictures that way. Also not all cameras use SD, some use compact flash or other media cards.

-Coggs

I voted for the Samsung between these two models on day two of the thread........suprise :)

OMG...:D
Well, perhaps it's time we hold hands and sing Kumbaya :cool:

I have never disliked Samsungs Paul. Remember, I bought two of them and not any Panasonics. I feel their 07 models were just o.k.(panny).
The new panny series along with the new Samsungs are great plasmas and wipe the floor with LCD's.
I just like another brand a little more :)

Can't go wrong with any of the big three and if LG could get there act completely together and make a fantastic set we would have four options and stilll have vizio and some others to save money on if one chooses or needs to.

Bump

Any particular reason for the bump??

Any particular reason for the bump??

Give more people a chance to vote for Panasonic. :D

I was a huge Samsung fanboy..... until I owned one. I picked up a 4254 last year, and in less than a week, it had burn-in (yes real burn in visible during normal content at all times) it had an annoying motion judder (fixed 6 months after I returned the set) it had a large chunk of plastic stuck under the glass (the size of 4 pixels) IR levels were insane (3 seconds from a commercial would last for almost 20 minutes on a dark screen) It had an annoying dither pattern that was very visible, and it put off more heat than our wood burning stove.

I returned it after it just kept getting worse and not better (I had the TV menu, channel info and volume slider burnt in by the time I returned it) and bought a Panasonic 42px75 a few months later (I was almost scared away from plasma by that Samsung) my break in settings were far brighter on the Panasonic (and are actually reduced from those now) It had far less IR (I still get it, but it isn't nearly as bad and fades very quickly) No motion Judder, it ran much cooler, no physical defects.

The only thing that the Samsung did better was accurate colors, which I really do miss. Oh and I miss the large amount of overscan that the Samsung had over s-video for my PS2 games and DVD movies over component (some movies now have black bars that didn't, which I find kinda annoying) so less overscan on the Panasonic can be viewed as both a plus and a minus.

Would I be willing to give Samsung another chance? Yes, yes I would, if they can prove to me that they have fixed the problems I listed above (which they have yet to do, just read the forums, there are far more complaints in Samsung threads than there are in Panasonic threads, and this applies to both LCD and Plasma) as I loved the PQ of my 4254. But as for right now I have to recommend the Panasonic.

I was a huge Samsung fanboy..... until I owned one. I picked up a 4254 last year, and in less than a week, it had burn-in (yes real burn in visible during normal content at all times) it had an annoying motion judder (fixed 6 months after I returned the set) it had a large chunk of plastic stuck under the glass (the size of 4 pixels) IR levels were insane (3 seconds from a commercial would last for almost 20 minutes on a dark screen) It had an annoying dither pattern that was very visible, and it put off more heat than our wood burning stove.

I returned it after it just kept getting worse and not better (I had the TV menu, channel info and volume slider burnt in by the time I returned it) and bought a Panasonic 42px75 a few months later (I was almost scared away from plasma by that Samsung) my break in settings were far brighter on the Panasonic (and are actually reduced from those now) It had far less IR (I still get it, but it isn't nearly as bad and fades very quickly) No motion Judder, it ran much cooler, no physical defects.

The only thing that the Samsung did better was accurate colors, which I really do miss. Oh and I miss the large amount of overscan that the Samsung had over s-video for my PS2 games and DVD movies over component (some movies now have black bars that didn't, which I find kinda annoying) so less overscan on the Panasonic can be viewed as both a plus and a minus.

Would I be willing to give Samsung another chance? Yes, yes I would, if they can prove to me that they have fixed the problems I listed above (which they have yet to do, just read the forums, there are far more complaints in Samsung threads than there are in Panasonic threads, and this applies to both LCD and Plasma) as I loved the PQ of my 4254. But as for right now I have to recommend the Panasonic.

Quoted for truth. BTW, I would argue that Panasonic has better black levels and a superior picture quality over Samsung by a wide margin. The colors on a Panasonic can be adjusted. There is a large thread about settings to get the most accurate colors. It is possible if you're willing to calibrate your set.

I owned the Panasonic PZ85U for 30 days before returning it due to the "green blob" issue and inaccurate colors and bought an A550. Years ago I purchased a Toshiba HDx82 series TV, and after getting the CRT's (red and blue) replaced twice, and finally the entire light box, Toshiba ended up giving me a new HX83 model, which had the infamous white line issue, ghosting, etc. Take a look at the Pioneer Kuro "buzzing" thread, etc. etc. In the Panasonic thread, there are comments about green blobs, someone having the glass off kilter, dead pixels, etc. All TV's have their issues, regardless of make.

So far so good with the A550 (keeping my fingers crossed), but I did get a 4 year warranty just in case after my experience with the Toshiba and Panny. Once upon a time I wouldn't have touched an extended warranty with a 10 foot pole.

At the end of the day, regardless of whether the OP gets the Samsung or Panasonic, he will love the set (personally I think the PQ are very, very close with each having different strengths and weaknesses), assuming he doesn't have quality control issues with it which are possible with all sets.

Quoted for truth. BTW, I would argue that Panasonic has better black levels and a superior picture quality over Samsung by a wide margin. The colors on a Panasonic can be adjusted. There is a large thread about settings to get the most accurate colors. It is possible if you're willing to calibrate your set.

I have been trying to get my colors to look as good as my old Samsung since I got my Panasonic, I still haven't gotten there, but I have found some that I am happy with. (warm is really messed up on my set and has a green push that makes the old Toshiba's look good by comparison)

And yes, black levels, shadow detail, are much better on the Panasonic. (I can actually watch my Panasonic in a bright room, where as my Samsung needed the lights out if I wanted to see any shadow detail.) And the AR screen is much better on the Panasonic as well (less glare and reflections, even with Sunlight in the room)

FYI - the colors of the Panasonic 85U can't be "adjusted". You can adjust saturation downwards to tame somewhat the red push and green over saturated colors, but can't get the primaries and secondaries to be correct as there is nothing available in the user or service menu to do this. Some are bothered by the colors, others not so much. The 85U did seem to have a tad more punch than the A550, but unfortunately I'm comparing a 50"PZ85U to a 58"A550 which I had in my house at different times. I can't recall the Panny having "better" black levels, but it is possible they were a few shades darker (again, I find comparing a 50" set to a larger set even of the same make is difficult as larger TV's tend to exaggerrate issues more than smaller ones).

99% of the people will not notice any red push or over saturation of green in the Panny 85U. Panasonic does this because it makes the picture stand out more to the consumer. They developed the "THX Certified" 800U and the adjustable 850U for people who want the ability to adjust color to be more accurate (amongst other advantages vs the 85U obviously for a different price).

And the AR screen is much better on the Panasonic as well (less glare and reflections, even with Sunlight in the room)

Agreed!

I voted for the Samsung, but I still wish Sony made plasmas. That would get my vote and my money.

.. Father, haven't you made Bishop yet. :)

vote for Samsung.

I'm glad I found this thread. I've been wondering about these 2 sets as well. Maybe the solution is to buy whichever is cheapest, and get that (otherwise ridiculous) 4-year warranty, so at least you're covered if there are defects. I'm sure when you bring the Panny/Sammy home it will look amazing.

Right now, CC has the 550 for about 200 cheaper. Great black levels are nice, but color and image accuracy will be more noticeable. For example, even in a movie theater, you're not getting "black"... and red push should be a thing of the past by now.

I'm glad I found this thread. I've been wondering about these 2 sets as well. Maybe the solution is to buy whichever is cheapest, and get that (otherwise ridiculous) 4-year warranty, so at least you're covered if there are defects. I'm sure when you bring the Panny/Sammy home it will look amazing.

Right now, CC has the 550 for about 200 cheaper. Great black levels are nice, but color and image accuracy will be more noticeable. For example, even in a movie theater, you're not getting "black"... and red push should be a thing of the past by now.

Panasonic is more reliable. Don't worry about the 4 year warrenty if you buy Panasonic, especially if you buy from Costco with an Amex or from Sam's Club. The Amex will double the warrenty for you for free.

I am a Panny 85U owner and an ISF calibrator who has worked on a Samsung 550, so I have some perspective on this.

Out of the box, the Panasonic gives a better image, but post-calibration the Samsung is the better display. The Panasonic beats it only on black level. In every other respect, color accuracy, gray scale tracking, processing, noise reduction, and adjustability the Samsung is a superior display IMHO.

The Panny 800U would be a closer match.

Two things I want to emphasize. First, this is ONLY after a proper calibration. The Samsung has an unusual wealth of controls all in the user menu that allow someone who knows what they are doing to dial in a beautiful image. On the other hand, the Panny is not very adjustable. Beyond the basic user controls, gray scale is about it and adjustments require entering the service menu. So, if you are one of those folks who has a religious objection to calibration, I'd go with the Panny. Second, both displays are really excellent with some only minor adjustment to the user controls, so we are not talking about big differences here.

I believe that we have entered a golden age of 1080p plasma displays. The Pioneers, Panasonics, and Samsungs of this generation are all insanely good compared to what you could have gotten just a couple of years ago. Anyone who says that any one of these stomps any one of the others doesn't know what they are talking about. The overall differences are relatively small, though there can be large differences in specific areas of performance.

Out of the box, the Panasonic gives a better image, but post-calibration the Samsung is the better display.

So you're saying for Samsung to have a good picture it will require a calibration by a professional that costs hundreds of dollars. I think I saw a quote somewhere that it costs around $400 bucks for a detailed calibration by a professional. How much do you charge? I'm assuming this isn't just adjusting contrast, tint, and brightness that you're doing?

Second, when you calibrate Samsung, can you calibrate it so there is no banding? Can you make Samsung better so it will NEVER require adding firmwares to fix problems? Can you make Samsung more reliable?

I understand you're a professional calibrator and it makes sense you would want more people to buy Samsung. Eventually they will get tired of looking at the Samsung glass and come looking for help.

My advice is to tell them to junk the Sammy and get a Panny. :D

The Pioneers, Panasonics, and Samsungs of this generation are all insanely good compared to what you could have gotten just a couple of years ago.
Anyone who says that any one of these stomps any one of the others doesn't know what they are talking about. The overall differences are relatively small, though there can be large differences in specific areas of performance.

That is my general contention as well. :cool:

My advice is to tell them to junk the Sammy and get a Panny. :D

doogie, I wouldn't expect you to say anything else. :cool:

if you buy one of the big three (pioneer, panasonic, samsung), you're getting a quality display. why not just choose the one that looks best to YOU that fits in YOUR budget.

people will vote and comment with their own personal biases, propping up one brand and disparaging another to validate their own purchasing decisions. this poll is unscientific and useless. only you can decide.


Ever so true! This quote should be posted at all electronic stores everywhere!

for what its worth, i bought Samsung and dont have any regrets.

Panasonic is more reliable. Don't worry about the 4 year warrenty if you buy Panasonic, especially if you buy from Costco with an Amex or from Sam's Club. The Amex will double the warrenty for you for free.

Knock on wood (as it will probably end up being me), but I don't recall one reliability issue post in the A550 thread. I do know there have been a few in the **84 threads (and most definitely the LCD threads).

Having said that, I can't imagine there are any more then there are with the Panasonic 85U's (if anything, less based on this forum, but of course there are many more Panasonic owner's so that is unfair).

In any event, I'd say they are equally reliable based on what I've read on these forums (based on my own exp, the A550 is thus far 100% more reliable than my old 85U ... :p). As for "firmware updates", if a manufacturer comes out with firmware, that's a good sign as far as I'm concerned, it means they're listening to their user's complaints. Which for Samsung is unsual! :rolleyes:

As per Tom's post above (which echo my feelings of the 85U I owned), when tweaked, the A550 is the better "overall" set (mainly due to the color innaccuracy of the 85U). But I would personally take the 800U over the A550 given it's color accuracy is pretty darn close (if not as good), 24p possibility (albeit some flickering issues), and better black levels (not sure about other processing).

At the end of the day, you'll be happy with the 800U, A550, or 85U from the sounds of it. Buy the one you feel most comfortable with from both a money perspective and peace of mind. Not sure how much more that can be said. If reliability concerns you, get an extended warranty as there are no "gaurantees" in life on any of these sets. Well, except beyond the first year (or 2 depending on the set :p).

So you're saying for Samsung to have a good picture it will require a calibration by a professional that costs hundreds of dollars. I think I saw a quote somewhere that it costs around $400 bucks for a detailed calibration by a professional. How much do you charge? I'm assuming this isn't just adjusting contrast, tint, and brightness that you're doing?

Second, when you calibrate Samsung, can you calibrate it so there is no banding? Can you make Samsung better so it will NEVER require adding firmwares to fix problems? Can you make Samsung more reliable?

I understand you're a professional calibrator and it makes sense you would want more people to buy Samsung. Eventually they will get tired of looking at the Samsung glass and come looking for help.

My advice is to tell them to junk the Sammy and get a Panny.Being an owner of one and having had experience calibrating the other, I thought I would provide some insight interested readers might appreciate. I wondered how long it would take for someone to question my motives. I take it you are a Panasonic owner, right?

The Samsung has a fully functional color management system. The Panny doesn't. The Samsung has a full set of gray scale controls in the user menu. The Panny's is in the service menu. The Samsung has effective noise reduction. The Panny doesn't. The Samsung properly deinterlaces 1080i material. The Panny doesn't. The Samsung offers full control over gamma. The Panny doesn't. However, the Panny does have better black levels.

I saw no problems with the Samsung that would require a firmware update. As I said in my initial post, if you have a principled objection to paying extra for calibration (no, not $400), then the Samsung is not for you. The Panny looks better out of the box. That's my honest opinion. If you have any actual information that contradicts anything I wrote about either display, then please share it with us.

Tom, in your opinion, is there any advantage to the Samsung if all you watch/game is in 1080P or high def cable? Will the processing and NR be that big of a deal? Or will the black levels be more beneficial.

I'm one of the few that isn't that fond of a calibrated picture, and by calibrated I mean THX modes in this years LG and Panasonic 800u.

Seeing as how the Samsung A550 is cheaper than the 85U and considerably cheaper than the 800U while having comparable performance, I would go with the A550.

IMO:
800U>A550>85U

^^^^
I would say the same, but I've only owned the 85U and currently own the A550, never the 800U. Just going by everything I've read about that set.

Tom, in your opinion, is there any advantage to the Samsung if all you watch/game is in 1080P or high def cable? Will the processing and NR be that big of a deal? Or will the black levels be more beneficial.

I'm one of the few that isn't that fond of a calibrated picture, and by calibrated I mean THX modes in this years LG and Panasonic 800u.If you prefer an uncalibrated image, then I'd go with the Panasonic 85U. To repeat my self again, the advantages of the Samsung are ONLY post-calibration.

^ Thanks.

I'd take Samsungs superior color accuracy over Panasonics deeper black levels. Not to mention that I am not a fan of Tvs that look like a person with a swolen bottom lip.

I'd take Samsungs superior color accuracy over Panasonics deeper black levels. Not to mention that I am not a fan of Tvs that look like a person with a swolen bottom lip.

Funny!

But seriously, how black IS black? Will one notice only a dark shade of gray on the Samsung? Is it comparable to a 2000-era tube tv?

Unfortunately, I went to both Circuit City and Best Buy today, neither stores had great HD feed, and BB had bright lights aimed right at the tvs. I couldn't tell the difference between any picture quality with those conditions.

But seriously, how black IS black? Will one notice only a dark shade of gray on the Samsung?

That's what I want to know. I've yet to see the Samsung in a dark room, so I wonder how much worse the black levels are over the Panasonic. I found the Panasonic PZ85 to have excellent black levels.

Funny!

But seriously, how black IS black? Will one notice only a dark shade of gray on the Samsung? Is it comparable to a 2000-era tube tv?

Unfortunately, I went to both Circuit City and Best Buy today, neither stores had great HD feed, and BB had bright lights aimed right at the tvs. I couldn't tell the difference between any picture quality with those conditions.

I'm only guessing from comments from guys that have owned both but I'm pretty sure it's very similar. Then again any small improvement in black is very welcome, I'd have to see the Samsung to say whether or not the black improvement would outweigh the color accuracy difference in favor of the Panasonic. Either is a good TV but the Samsung has a little more potential in all areas but black.

But I would place my money with the TH-50PZ85U. I say this strictly because of the fact that the contrast and color saturation is a lot deeper in Panasonic this year. Samsung is a great plasma, don't get me wrong... but the Panasonic is just a lot better of a buy. I'm not sure if you knew this but a lot of people don't understand the 1,000,000:1 contrast on the Panasonic PZ series. When there is a true black on the screen they actually cut all power to that pixel in the panel, which creates an unmeasurable contrast ratio from black to white. If you're into a lot of action/sci-fi/thriller sort of subject matter while watching movies/TV you're going to get a lot more out of your money with the Panasonic. Not to mention the fact that just by LOOKING at the television you can see that the color saturation is a lot deeper. The 480 Hz refresh isn't bad either if you're planning on sports or video gaming. Haha, I sound like I work for Panasonic right now but I really don't. Seriously, take it from me though. I work as a Home Theater Supervisor for the #2 consumer electronics retailer in the country and I would sell you the Panasonic over the Samsung any day. :)

But I would place my money with the TH-50PZ85U. I say this strictly because of the fact that the contrast and color saturation is a lot deeper in Panasonic this year. Samsung is a great plasma, don't get me wrong... but the Panasonic is just a lot better of a buy. I'm not sure if you knew this but a lot of people don't understand the 1,000,000:1 contrast on the Panasonic PZ series. When there is a true black on the screen they actually cut all power to that pixel in the panel, which creates an unmeasurable contrast ratio from black to white. If you're into a lot of action/sci-fi/thriller sort of subject matter while watching movies/TV you're going to get a lot more out of your money with the Panasonic. Not to mention the fact that just by LOOKING at the television you can see that the color saturation is a lot deeper. The 480 Hz refresh isn't bad either if you're planning on sports or video gaming. Haha, I sound like I work for Panasonic right now but I really don't. Seriously, take it from me though. I work as a Home Theater Supervisor for the #2 consumer electronics retailer in the country and I would sell you the Panasonic over the Samsung any day.The super high contrast you refer to is only available in the Vivid mode, which is by far the most inaccurate, blown-out mode on the panel. It is unwatchable if you are the least bit interested in an accurate image. The color saturation is no different from last year's model nor the year before that. Both red and green are considerably over saturated, which I gather you think is a good thing.

But I would place my money with the TH-50PZ85U. I say this strictly because of the fact that the contrast and color saturation is a lot deeper in Panasonic this year. Samsung is a great plasma, don't get me wrong... but the Panasonic is just a lot better of a buy. I'm not sure if you knew this but a lot of people don't understand the 1,000,000:1 contrast on the Panasonic PZ series. When there is a true black on the screen they actually cut all power to that pixel in the panel, which creates an unmeasurable contrast ratio from black to white. If you're into a lot of action/sci-fi/thriller sort of subject matter while watching movies/TV you're going to get a lot more out of your money with the Panasonic. Not to mention the fact that just by LOOKING at the television you can see that the color saturation is a lot deeper. The 480 Hz refresh isn't bad either if you're planning on sports or video gaming. Haha, I sound like I work for Panasonic right now but I really don't. Seriously, take it from me though. I work as a Home Theater Supervisor for the #2 consumer electronics retailer in the country and I would sell you the Panasonic over the Samsung any day. :)

I'm not even going to touch this post :o

I consider myself by more than just job title a "Home Theater Specialist". That being said I disagree with DECONTROL. The A550 Plasma IS better than the Panny 85u. There is no doubt that the Panasonic looks much better out of the box, with the proper settings, the Samsung A550 looks better. The Sammy A550 also has the same 1,000,000 to 1 contrast ratio (dynamic of course). As for what he calls "480hz refresh", the 480hz is not the refresh rate like the lcd technology that does 120hz, the 480hz refers to it's "sub-field" drive, which is a totally different technology. I will not go into explaining this, you can read for yourself. I will say that properly calibrated the A550 KILLS the 85u in a side by sid comparison. BTW I am a huge Panasonic fan and own a 700u and am speaking on ONLY PQ and not reliability between these two plasmas.

. I will say that properly calibrated the A550 KILLS the 85u in a side by sid comparison. BTW I am a huge Panasonic fan and own a 700u and am speaking on ONLY PQ and not reliability between these two plasmas.

I've gotta ask if you've actually seen them side by side calibrated or you're just going on window shopping, I think saying any one of them "kills" the other is a huge overstatement. Even people that have owned both can say they're both really good sets.

The Samsung crowd is creating second accounts to vote in the poll.

Here is an example of all the people who voted for Samsung who are new members and have 0 or 1 post...

wtfwtfwtf

hitmancruz

masii

papin412

Omega2244

leftatdeath

sammjordan

shaunster

budkole

ahhunter

chenc544

There is a TON of other accounts that are new members with 2 or 3 posts who voted for Samsung.

I'd take Samsungs superior color accuracy over Panasonics deeper black levels. Not to mention that I am not a fan of Tvs that look like a person with a swolen bottom lip.

Maybe this years panasonic has better blacks than samsungs, but for the past two years samsungs had better blacks but worse color accuracy, pink whites, pinkish skin tones. Panasonic has better processing, color accuracy imo. Less image retention also from what i've read.

Maybe this years panasonic has better blacks than samsungs, but for the past two years samsungs had better blacks but worse color accuracy, pink whites, pinkish skin tones. Panasonic has better processing, color accuracy imo. Less image retention also from what i've read.I don't know where you got your information. The Samsung Movie mode has always allowed for better color accuracy than any Panasonic until this year's THX mode on the 800U. Also, Panasonics--including this current crop--have never properly deinterlaced 1080i material. The Samsung does. Last year the black level on Pannys and Samsungs were roughly the same. This year the Pannys doubled their native CR, whereas Samsung remained essentially the same.

But I would place my money with the TH-50PZ85U. I say this strictly because of the fact that the contrast and color saturation is a lot deeper in Panasonic this year. Samsung is a great plasma, don't get me wrong... but the Panasonic is just a lot better of a buy. I'm not sure if you knew this but a lot of people don't understand the 1,000,000:1 contrast on the Panasonic PZ series. When there is a true black on the screen they actually cut all power to that pixel in the panel, which creates an unmeasurable contrast ratio from black to white. If you're into a lot of action/sci-fi/thriller sort of subject matter while watching movies/TV you're going to get a lot more out of your money with the Panasonic. Not to mention the fact that just by LOOKING at the television you can see that the color saturation is a lot deeper. The 480 Hz refresh isn't bad either if you're planning on sports or video gaming. Haha, I sound like I work for Panasonic right now but I really don't. Seriously, take it from me though. I work as a Home Theater Supervisor for the #2 consumer electronics retailer in the country and I would sell you the Panasonic over the Samsung any day. :)

Is this guy serious?!?!

He only has 1 post. Therefore, according to our friend Doogie, he is likely a Samsung plant clearly trying to make Panasonic buyers look like people who have no clue about television sets. :p

Alternatively, it's Doogie himself, who has created a phantom account, and is trying to tout the 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio as the next best thing since sliced bread and how oversaturated colors is in fact a positive. :p

I'm beginning to think Tom Huffman is in fact a Samsung plant as well. They may have planted him back in 2003 with the anticipation of this very thread pitting the 85U against the A550. With the clout of thousands of posts and outrageous claims of being a real ISF trained calibrator, Tom can influence the buying power of millions to Samsung inspite of the clearly superior 85U being the much better set, and of course, more reliable. At the same time, his calibration charges go straight to Samsung generating millions of dollars for them in revenue. Mooo ha ha ha ha ha!!

Okay ... I have way too much time on my hands right now. Almost as much as Doogie.

:D

I don't know where you got your information. The Samsung Movie mode has always allowed for better color accuracy than any Panasonic until this year's THX mode on the 800U. Also, Panasonics--including this current crop--have never properly deinterlaced 1080i material. The Samsung does. Last year the black level on Pannys and Samsungs were roughly the same. This year the Pannys doubled their native CR, whereas Samsung remained essentially the same.


Samsung had better blacks last year. I always see 'pink' in samsungs, never seen movie mode so i cant comment but samsung lcd's seem much better than their plasmas.

Maybe this years panasonic has better blacks than samsungs, but for the past two years samsungs had better blacks but worse color accuracy, pink whites, pinkish skin tones. Panasonic has better processing, color accuracy imo. Less image retention also from what i've read.

OK, this brings up another point: is one of them better for image retention?

OK, this brings up another point: is one of them better for image retention?


Not a fact but from all i've read here panny seems to have less IR.

Environment's being equal, TH-50PZ85U or the PN50a550 = 6 of one, half a dozen of the other. IQ wise at the brick and mortars, there really isn't much of difference beyond what type of signal each set is acquiring based on which brand is offering kick-back specials that particular month. And yes, it's true.

If you're that worried about reflective distractions, get an LCD. The only reason I chose the sammy is the menu and picture controls. Other than that, there wasn't MUCH of a difference between the two sets at the store when viewed side by side....and I viewed them at no less than 4 different stores. Two BBs, an American TV, Colders and a CC.

When you get the set home and hook it up, provided you're not dealing with a wall of windows or direct lighting, the IQ difference between the two won't matter because you only have one set in front of you. Base that set's performance on your budget and what it's replacing, not what you WISH you could afford.

Between the Panny and Sammy, one isn't heads and shoulders better than the other. The only real difference between the two is the price at any given time. And that makes both of these TVs a commodity. The only set that seems to garner a premium price is Pioneer, and that didn't seem worth the price difference for what you get in return IMO - I'm willing to stay a half-step behind to save a few thousand dollars. In three years, I'll buy the next 2nd best display at a fraction of the cost of the best display because it's going to be 20x better then what I currently own. Case in point, this Sammy (or Panny) is going to be 20x better than my current Hitachi LCD rear projection (the 50v500). And that's what matters to me.

Carry on.

c

The Samsung crowd is creating second accounts to vote in the poll.

Here is an example of all the people who voted for Samsung who are new members and have 0 or 1 post...

wtfwtfwtf

hitmancruz

masii

papin412

Omega2244

leftatdeath

sammjordan

shaunster

budkole

ahhunter

chenc544

There is a TON of other accounts that are new members with 2 or 3 posts who voted for Samsung.

Comon, even people with Panasonic plasma can agree they are better TVs this year if only slightly and in certain circumstances (calibration), I think you're a bit paranoid ;)

Doogie has officially wigged.

Well, just an FYI, the Panny won out. I ordered a couple 85Us yesterday. It was a toss up for most of the race however, the Sammy was very good looking but the anti-glare and supposed better IR resistance of the Panny (oh the slightly better blacks also) won out in the end.

I voted anyways if just for the fact I like clicking buttons.

The vote is a blow out. Panasonic is crushing Samsung.

55% to 44% ....there is no crushing going on...

55% to 44% ....there is no crushing going on...

Right you are. I think though that at that time the margin was a bit greater. Still, it was a hard decision to make. In the end I opted for 42" instead of 50", I saved at least $1000 between the two sets, spending around $2400 now instead of $3400+. The logic being that the 50-60 range will be considerably cheaper in 3 yrs or so and I will upgrade again with the money I saved now!