I have used plasma displays for years and can tell you that the image quality is not on par with the money spent. While prices HAVE been dropping and a 42" NEC plasma display can be had for as little as $5000, they are still a novelty rather than a serious display device. The exception being Pioneers 52" HD plasma display. The resolution of this unit is the only one I'd actually consider putting in my home. But at $25,000, you'd be better off with a CRT projector. Even though the manufacturing process is more refined than it was with the first generation models, it is still not uncommon to have 1 or 2 defective pixels in the display. When you think of the millions of gas filled pockets that make up the display surface, this is not suprising. If you are looking for a serious WOW factor, plasmas are still the way to go. If you are interested in image quality and the least bit discerning; you will be very disappointed in all but the most expensive units.
