Hello, I was looking to upgrade from my old LCD Sony KDF-E42A10 42". First I was wondering would the improvment in image quality really be that great from my sony? I have gone to a few stores to check out the panels they look good but are so poorly calibrate in the store that its difficult to tell. Im pretty stuck between two choices. I was looking at the Panasonic TH-50PZ80U or the Samsung PN50A550. Both panels are currently selling for the same price and are within my price range. I will use the panel primarily for gameing. I have a PS3 and Xbox360 aslong with some old school consoles that I use. I would also use it for watching a decent bit of blueray and normal DVDs. The PC input does not really matter to me since I can hook up my laptop via HDMI.

I would personally choose the Panny. I do like the samsungs better color accuracy and maybe even a little more pop, but I think the Panasonic's blacks are deeper. I also had samsungs last generation of plasma and it was much more susceptible to IR (and potentially even Burn In) than my current panasonic. So i can't for sure say about this generation of sammy's and how they do with IR, but if you will be using the computer much, might be something to think about. YMMV.

Both sets that you are considering are good choices. You will be happy with either.

I am leaning towards the pioneer. Would ither set be a big upgrade to the current set I am using now?

Check for deals on the Panny 46PZ800u. They've been discontinued but can still be had for an incredible price.

Both are really great sets. I would check them out in a store first, that will help you decide.