Choose the right HDTV This Xtmas

Samsung's E6500 series

With deep black levels, excellent color reproduction, good 3D performance, and a competitive price, Samsung's E6500 series comes close to matching the gdgt Must-have Panasonic ST50 in just about every respect. The ST50 does get somewhat brighter, and has slightly better performance in bright rooms, and it also offers more size options, coming in four different sizes from 50-inches up to 65-inches. However, the E6500 matches it very closely at 51-inches and 60-inches, and if you're looking for a solid plasma TV at a great price in either of those sizes, the E6500 should be close to the top of your list. 

Sony X900A Series UHDTV

Sony wasn't content with having just one UHDTV, they had to go out and make another that performs just as well -- if not better. Just like they did when 1080p debuted, critics are getting excited about the capabilities of UDHTV. In describing the the X900A's performance, Pocket-Lint says "there's a photogenic quality to its imagery" and that "images take on a window-like experience." TrustedReviews says "even the weaker content looks mouthwateringly good." Those big speakers on the side aren't just for show, either -- Digital Versus says "Sony has done it," and the speakers have "real bass and punch." There is no question that this is a TV for any die-hard movie enthusiast who doesn't want a projector, but at $5000(N800,000) it's not exactly cheap, and available Ultra HD progamming is limited right now.

Panasonic VIERA ST50 Series

the GT50 and VT50 series, the Panasonic ST50 is an outstanding plasma HDTV, and performs very well in 2D and 3D modes, has the expected range of smart TV functions, and comes close to the higher-end models in terms of black levels, motion handling, and color matching. Its hardware design isn't as sleek as the more expensive models; if you're looking for the slimmest bezel around, you'll have to look elsewhere. It also has just 3 HDMI ports, compared to 4 on the GT50. Like its big brothers, it has a few issues, including two that are common to most plasma sets: high energy usage, and somewhat washed out colors in brightly lit rooms. Overall, however, the ST50 is an excellent performer, and at $1,349-N220,000 (for the 55-inch model), it's about $600 less than the VT50.  

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