Ok I have a dilemna,I know nothing about televisions.

I won the HD Done right contest(1st place) which entailed winning a Samsung LCD 40'' tv which was worth $2500.I was really happy.

Long story short- they substituted a Best Buy $2500 gift card instead.This is a xmas gift for DH so please help me find the right tv-good quality for the money-big screen- no plasma as I have heard would need installation and they get hot (I have 2 babies). I got the gc today so am ready to shop!

Congratulations!!!

Consumer Reports rates the JVC LT-40FN97 as the top-rated 40" tv, with the Sony Bravia KDL-40XBR2 running a close second. The Samsung is #5 on their list, so maybe this was for the best. :yup:

Lucky you.

I would vote for the panasonic PX60 Plasma 42 inch. This is a top-rated TV in Consumer reports. Make Best Buy match the Circuit City price (~ $1200). Also, there are lots of other 'rebates' at Best Buy for delivery and other stuff that you need to look at.

Secondly, spend some of the $$ on a Home Theater system. Best Buy was (and I think still is) offering a free wireless receiver with the Panasonic Home Theater systems. There is a compatiblility advantage buying the same brand TV and Home Theater system in terms of the remote control compatibilities (a minor issue).

Don't forget the Stand!

Lastly, you could probably use a new computer...


If you cannot spend it all, let me know.....

Wow! Congrats on the win!

There are two technologies I would recommend DLP and LCoS.

DLP - Samsung 56" 1080p (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=7705771&type=product&productCategoryId=pcmcat95100050017&id=1138085296639)

LCoS - Sony Grand WEGA 55" 1080p (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=7932696&type=product&productCategoryId=pcmcat95100050017&id=1149208957206)

I would recommend visiting your local BB or CC to see these two TV's with your own eyes. If I had to choose I would get the Sony SXRD.

i agree and would choose either the sony or the samsung-and you would probably have a little left over if you watch the sales and maybe get a price match. congratulations!