Samsung HPR4252 42-Inch High Definition Plasma TV With Integrated ATSC/Digital Cable Ready Tuner
Lots of research ended with Samsung
I spent many hours over the course of many days educating myself on what all of the acronyms meant.  In the end, I liked Samsung, Sharp, and Panasonic.  Decided to go with the Samsung model because of it being computer ready (having a computer monitor input on the back).  Also, it had the best value for the quality.  I have had it a few days now and can hardly believe the picture.  I had a 27 inch panasonic for 16 years (used to be considered a large tv) that had seen better days.  I hope this samsung lasts that long.  Reader, wait till you hang this baby on your wall and sit back and enjoy a mini-theatre presentation.  At that moment, your fears on spending that much money will disolve and you can say WOW, what a TV!  Good luck with your decision.