Best big screen for under $4000.00

I personally went with the Samsung DLP. It's much faster than the Sony's (LCD's - ever wonder why computer gamers don't use LCD's?????? The refresh rate is usually why!) I got my 61" DLP for just about $5000, but that was from a local dealer ad with extending warranty. I've seen them on line for about the $4K you're looking for.

I watched it side by side with the Sony's and my wife even agreed it was better. FWTW.

I would have to agree about DVI --- I had it hooked up to my Hitachi and frankly I thought the component video connection gave a better picture. If you stay with RPTV take a look at Hitachi, I don't have a clue what type of projector to look at.
Best of Luck

Pioneer Elite HD630 or HD730. I have an HD530. The cabinet is a piano-grade gloss black. The picture is outstanding. What sets Pioneer above other brands is its ability to realistically stretch 4:3 pictures. This is a key feature, since most programming, and many DVDs, need to be stretched to fill the 16:9 screen. In addition, the Pioneer excels at cable and over the air broadcasts, which some other brands are terrible at. Also, the Pioneer, at least in my experience, can be placed right next to a window and in a room with bright lights with with no glare/reflections on the screen from outdoor or indoor light. Try running a projector in a bright room : )
In sum, you should take into consideration not only picture quality, but also stretch modes, cable and over the air capability, and whether the screen can keep away glare/reflections.

I still have trouble getting used to a High Definition TV that has a picture tube. I suppose it is a bit like Solid State vs. tube: all of the specs say Solid State; most of us humans go for tubes.

I think that a really good projector is the way to go, followed by plasma.

Forget the rear projector. Also, I agree that DVI is the an essential as you will always have the option to use this or component.

Go to CNET.COM for great reviews and user opinions...If you can go with a projector, you won't have to spend much to get the '' at the movies'' effect. I have a very ordinary Epson projector (bought it for presentations) and the kids will take a James bond movie on a 100'' screen any day over the best 60'' tv you will put it up against. There is really something magical about projecting something over a whole wall...If you really wish to get a 60 inch'er, I think that the Sony LCD screens are incredible for the money, although they will not provide the deepest blacks....the picture is still very, very good. I was watching an HD broadcast on PBS the other day, just amazed at the resolution and detail of this Sony...