The rapid pace of technology and high cost of labor makes everything disposible. The 42" Sony LCD RP I bought 3 1/2 years ago for $2700 can be had now for about $1000. The optical block went bad and the repair cost is $1250!! Unless you have an extended warranty, sometimes it just doesn't make sense to have a 3 or 4 year old TV (or anything else electronic) repaired.
P.S. Sony is standing behind their product with me:
http://www.hometheatershack.com/foru...lue-spots.html