HDTV plasmas with 4000:1 contrast ratio.

I have the Panasonic EDTV model that claims to be 4000. (It performs very well). But I have heard it said that the 4000 number may be a slight exageration. Maybe it should be 3000 like the others.

I am very happy with it. Model TH-42PWD6. Complete with wall mount and shipping it set me back about $3300. I got the commercial model, which was described as identical to the consumer model. On mine the speakers and DVI interface module were options that I did not need or want. Are you sure that they are included in the consumer model, or just a listed option. I use S-Video hookup, and I don't see a need to change to DVI (which my HD satelite receiver can output) until I get a HD monitor. The audio amps, 8 roaring watts per channel, are included even if the speakers are not. (So if you had some extra speakers on hand you could use them).

Reubent...The wall mount (or a stand) and DVI interface module are worth about $375. So you would be paying $425 for the tuner and the speakers.

Edesilva...The DLP sets are very good, but they are about 19" deep, and my setup really needed the 4" plasma because of doorways to the left and the right, with walkway across the front of the screen.

I had heard that component connection is often no improvement over S-Video, so I have decided to wait and use DVI when I get a HD monitor. The length of cable is about 25 feet, so the cost of component wires would not be trivial.