Pioneer plasma models in Asia

What is the model naming convention for Pioneer models for the Asian region? I cannot find the Elite models on the Singapore website [link]. Does that mean the Elite models are not available for Asia? I am interested in the 60" 151FD.

Can any Elite owner from Asia confirm this? What would be the closest alternative to the Elite among the models available?

The ones offered in Asia right now are the PDP-LX508G and 608G, for 50" and 60" respectively. I searched around a bit more and apparently, you are right. They are all 8th-gen plasma sets, while the Elite are 9th-gen?

I have written to Pioneer Middle East to find out when the 9th gen plasmas are expected in this region.

Can anyone elaborate on the main differences between 8th and 9th gen? My interest lies mainly in the 60" Elite screen.

My use for the plasma will be BD movies, PS3 games and SD cable content since we do not get HD broadcast here. PQ is and always will be my primary criteria. Can I get some advice whether I should wait for the 9th gen launch or is the 8th gen plasma just as good?

I can purchase the 8th gen 60" for around US$ 7,000 and the 50" for US$ 4,000 at the moment.

I emailed Pioneer Middle East for the Elite. Their reply:


Their website still maintains that their products are 8th gen. I have requested a clarification.

I asked Pioneer UAE about the models listed on their website and the absence of Elite series from the same. Their reply:


I have now asked them about availability of 9th gen plasmas.