Have current LCDs surpassed the Pioneer Kuro?

Not quite yet if you are comparing them to the latests Kuro Plasmas. The best overall LED LCDs that are out now are the 46"-65" Sony HX929 and the 60"-70" Elite LCD made by sharp. They generally beat the Kuro in overall black levels and contrast but only come close in overall picture quality including color accuracy and motion. I would say that the Elite is the better overall set with better black levels and less blooming but is priced a bit higher than the Sony. Considering the sizes you are looking into, the Sony HX929 46" and 55" may be worth looking into though it is being discontinued. As for the Elite LCD, 60" is the smallest size it comes in. Both provide the closest plasma like picture if thats what you are looking for.

Yes those top of the line expensive Sharp Elite and Sony models are the only ones now with direct LED backlighting and local dimming that provide the best black levels.
But they are extremely expensive too.

The Kuro televisions weren't exactly cheap either. If you want the best quality, you have to pay for it.

Direct LED backlighting and full array :LED backlighting with local dimming are not the same technology.See:

http://news.consumerreports.org/electronics/2012/05/what-is-a-direct-lit-led-lcd-tv.html

I currently own a Pioneer Pro-141 in my main viewing area along with a Sony XBR46HX909 in our bedroom and I just purchased a Sony KDL55HX850 for my office in my house. Having viewed the new Elite from Sharp and considering replacing my PRo-141, I am sticking with my PRO-141. The blooming on the Elite from Sharp and the viewing angle was enough for me to keep my PRO-141. The PRO-141 does a better job for viewing SD content over both Sony's I own. The only downfall with the Pioneer is the heat the plasma panel generates. I am going to return the HX850 for the Sony 929 for the full array back lighting. Comparing the Sony 850 to my 909 the colors are not as deep or crisp. This is just my opinion but I believe the current HDTV's are still behind the Kuro Elite's. I know I will not be getting rid of mine any time soon.
Edited by grunt66 - 8/5/12 at 11:00pm

In terms of picture quality, it may not be worth replacing the Pioneer Kuro with another set at the moment. However, current sets are coming close in terms of black levels, etc (not to mention having 3D/Smart TV) so I would take a look at the top LCD's on the market to decide whether the additional features are worth a purchase.

In terms of 2D picture quality, I doubt there is any LED/LCD currently on the market that is superior all around. Some may come close in certain areas, but not the total package. Another plasma may be a better choice (like the Panasonic VT50 or Samsung E8000).

LED/LCD? Ahhh, no.

Keep the Kuro.

Michael

exactly