Samsung LN52A650 vs. Panasonic TH-50PZ85U: Which would you buy?

[91BlckGT]

I read the reviews of both, and it appears that the Samsung is slightly higher rated (going only on the CNET reviews). Both have favorable and near universal praise from owners. I've narrowed it down to these two screens, as representing (at least to me) the best bang for the buck in their respective fields.

I've seen both in stores, and had conflicting experiences, especially given the low-quality demo material.

Here's my quandary: The Samsung has the larger screen, and (on paper) the superior image processing abilities. I think it can do a perfect 1080p/24 processing as well, which mates very well with a Blu-Ray player.

The panasonic is cheaper, has less reflections, and a sturdier screen (with two small kids, that's a factor to me.)

So, ignoring price and reflection differences, which would you buy to watch TV, play video games, and some movie watching on?

I mention those three things, since I will principally be watching movies in my "real" theater with the front projections system. This TV is more for the wife & kids.

[Mike P.]

Another issue to consider when making a purchase is service. Is there an authorized service center close to where you live?

[Sonnie]

I do not like reflections. That is one thing I disliked about our last big screen. However, we have a 61" Samsung now and do not have any reflection issues. Being in an entertainment center, we do not have to worry about kids knocking it over. In your situation, I do not think I could ignore the reflections and the kid resistance.

[cynical2]

For me, as long as viewing distance is reasonable, size is an important factor. I rarely hear about someone buying a TV and wishing they had gone smaller...but hearing the opposite is an everyday occurrence.

That being said, I think a lot depends on how much you can control light in your environment. If the reflections are an issue (and you can't control the light at the source) on the larger set, I wouldn't even consider it...they just bother me, and would annoy me endlessly.

[91BlckGT]

Well, when all was said and done, I went with the Samsung. My old TV (a 10 year old Hitachi 50" RPTV) had a plexigas child safety screen on it that reflected everything. The reflections really didn't bother me with that. I sold it 2 months ago and have been without a tv since then, so I think going from nothing to something impressive should do it.

Now I just need to get a blu-ray player.
And a second receiver.
And another 5.1 system

Sigh, when will the buying end...