HELP, I got my basement remodel about complete and now we're shopping for TV's for the "media room" (man cave, lol). I've been trying to read up on the larger 50"ish TV's that are out there, but there's so much info for this low-tech redneck to comprehend. I did run speaker wire for (6) "surround sound" speakers (or whatever it's called now a-days).

I really need some advice on the pros-cons of the Plasma-LCD-LED TV's. The viewing distance is only 12' from the TV to the couches and 18-20' to the bar area. Also, we're going to have a smaller (26-30") TV that's wall mounted behind the bar. I think I want 1080 and 240hz, but any advice on other options or models/brands is appreciated. I'd like to keep the larger TV budget around $1500.00

Recommended stores to buy from (online etc)? Also, should I get a blu-ray DVD player?

It's really all greek to me. I almost pulled the pin on a 50"ish Vizio at X-mas at Costco, but I knew it would sit in the box for several months. I was hoping prices would drop since then, but that doesn't appear to be the case.

THANKS!!!

I am no expert but I can offer up what I know...

I have a Sony LCD that has been excellent for the past 5 years, had to replace the bulb but that was only 200 bucks and after over 14K hours.

Go with 1080p resolution, and HDMI inputs will help.

when checking out these TV's look at them from the side and you will notice the variences much better than straight on.

Look for true black when watching them, some will show black looking kind of more like a deep charcoal.

Know the features you want before you shop.

Every TV looks way better in the store than at home.

Some of the new Blu-Ray players support Net Flix and that is pretty nice since they have tons of movies that you cant rent at the local video store and they are streamed to your tv.