that was about the same budget i had
the best display is the full array, local dimming.
i was looking for a 60 inch also but gave up. they just skip that screen size when putting in the best technology
i bought for interim westinghouse LD-5546VX 46 inch 2D with great picture for $550. no blooming. no edge light seen. very black blacks. i also bought vizio vht510 sound bar.
now i can let tv features and technology to mature more across board and come down in price in next 18-24 months. and i got $1950 left for a future tv to buy
if you just can't wait, i would either go for sony 55 inch XBR929 or look at vizio later this year. the only 60 inch that seems interesting is Sharp edge light.
the problem you want to be aware of is that edge lit somewhere above 47 inches will give you blooming, bright areas etc.
if you don't got money to burn and you really want high quality 60 inch, i'd post pone the purchase and either buy a low cost interim tv or wait another 12-18 moths.
there are just a real lack of quality 60 inch tvs out there
