LoL I have to chime in on this one. I happen to know wayyyy more about televisions and home theater than ill ever know about lasers.
First off, 120hz will make a difference over 60hz on an LCD television, however its important to realize that the tv's video processor is just processing the image to 120hz. Thus why samsungs and tv's alike have adjustable settings for the enhanced motion. Most lcd's with 120hz will always look better compared to a standard LCD, partly because the 120hz is featured on the higher models in that particular lineup. Which most of the time include glossy screens which will be a big help to the overall image. However you can definitely notice the fake looking or overly smoothed out image. To me it doesn't look right but everyone is different. I actually sold my Sony 40" XBR (with 120hz), and purchased a 720p Pioneer Kuro Plasma. Some thought I was nuts but the picture from all aspects is way better. I dont want to hear the gaming thing and burn in factor because it simply doesn't exist no matter how long I game. I have only seen cases of plasma burn in when neglagence is at play. Ex. You leave your dvd running at the menu screen for 8 hours, Of course this will burn in.
Now take this into consideration. Instead of spending 675$ on a 47" Westinghouse or whatever other el-cheapo tv. Save up a measly 200$ more and go get yourself a panasonic, ( poor mans Pioneer ) and have the following.
Deep Dark Blacks ( Contrast = Most Important aspect of picture.)
excellent motion ( no need to have 120hz processing the plasma technology renders motion better as a technology.)
brilliant unfaded color ( In part to a glossy or non matte finish screen )
and of course your hd res of 720p or 1080p
If your at a viewing distance of 8 - 9 + ft. You will not notice a difference between 720p and 1080p. With either blu-ray or 720p hd content.
The thing is people feel like they have to have 1080p, and you don't. Resolution is like the 5th most important characteristic of a television. Do your research.. The funny thing is I see all over this forum people talking about the quality of different diodes, drivers, companies, etc. But then go out and buy a Westinghouse 47". Just because you can tell your friends and co workers you own a fancy pants 1080p tv does not mean anything.
AVSFORUM.COM is an excellent place to do research, and I suggest you do before you buy a new TV. You would be suprised at what another 200$ can buy you in terms of overall enjoyment and longevity.
Sorry to go off a little bit, but Ive dealt with this for years. If you have lighting issues, and I mean too much light or a room full of windows with no blinds, go with a matte finish LCD. Even buy your westy if you want. If lighting is not an issue, look into the Panasonics, and If you want the best go for a Pioneer or Pioneer Elite, you will be stunned.
Even wicked lasers vs Opto or CNI isnt a good enough comparison to the quality of a Pioneer vs a Westinghouse LCD LOL.
-Greg
I took a couple pics using a Pioneer Benchmark testing Blu-Ray I acquired from a Pioneer Rep. I dont have my tripod nor am I much of a photographer. Just thought Id put these up to show how good black levels can be on these tv's.
