I currently own a 2 year old 37 inch Panasonic EDTV plasma and have enjoyed it, but the neverending upgrade bug has always gnawed at me (in particular, for a true HDTV set). I've recently obtained the ps3 and the HD-DVD add on for my 360 and my desire for a HDTV has increased.

I've had a friend offer a fair amount to buy my Panny. I've also recently seen the 42 inch Maxent HDTV (the MX-42HPM20) at the local BB's running at a nice price right now. Combining the two, I'd be able to upgrade at minimal cost (less than $500, which would be extremely helpful given the expenses from the first paragraph ;) ) in size and resolution...but I am unsure about overall picture quality.

I'd be using the set for mostly high def movies along with gaming on my 360 and ps3. Anyone have experience with both these sets that can comment on whether or not this upgrade would be worth it?

any thoughts?

would be MUCH better to upgrade to the panny 42 or 50" plasma. Personally, I think the Maxent is a step down from your panny regardless of screen size. Stick with what you've got or move up to a bigger panny or pio. Even the Panny 42ED would be better, in my view, than a Maxent 42" HD. The 42ED is selling at a very low price these days. My 2 cents.

I'd opt for the Maxent, which I currently own. This is my fourth HD set (have a 52" DLP in the Living room, DLP Projector with 102" screen in the "movie room", 37" LCD in the bedroom and the Maxent 42" in my office). After fiddling with the video controls for a few minutes, I was impressed with the excellent picture quality, in both HD and SD. Great flesh tones, clarity, contrast. The only thing I don't like is the remote control...a bit on the spartan side, but oh well. Don't let the lackluster speakers turn you off, since most people who buy a HD set also have a surround sound system. For the money...you can't go wrong...and their Customer Service is awesome. I had two questions about the set, which were answered immediately and I even received a follow-up e-mail making sure that my questions were answered to my satisfaction. More expensive does NOT always mean better!