Need some opinions...buying a plasma soon...

[BryCola]

After reading so many opinions on here about TV's, I've narrowed my choices down to two Panasonics...the TH50PX80U, which is $1499, or the TH-50PZ800U, which is $2999. So, my question is...is the 800u worth DOUBLE the price? Will I see a big enough difference to justify the huge price difference? I watch movies, TV, and play xbox360, and plan on getting a blu-ray soon...probably a PS3.

Thanks SO much for the help!

[UPSandy]

i dont know much about the panasonics but right now at tweeter you can get the pioneer elite pro-1150hd for 2299$...which is a bargain

[elwaylite]

I have an 85u and love it. I dont feel the 800u is worth that much xtra. Really, buying a 80u or 85u and having it calibrated for $375 will save you some dough.

The 800u IS a better tv than the 80 and 85u, no doubt.

[Johnny Vinyl]

IMO...I don't think the 800U is worth the extra money. Sure it has a higher Contrast ratio, more Shades of Gradation, 24pCinema and THX support, but unless you are a rabid movie watcher (i.e. watch movies every single day of your life), the extra outlay isn't worth it.

Also, getting a receiver with 24p Cinema and THX support can get rather expensive and is certainly far from being common today (just like 7.1 on movies).

I would use the difference on buying a good receiver that has Dolby True HD and DTS HD MA. You don't list what other componants you have, so this is just a suggestion I am providing.

Either way...your choice in choosing from 2 Panasonics is a good one. I looked long and hard for quite some time before settling on my Panny and I haven't regretted it. I think they make the best Plasmas.

[Shiggidy75]

Go in between and get the 85u. You'll love it for around 2100. Not real sure right now on price but you'll find a good deal somewhere.

[Sonny]

I have a ton of Panasonic's & love um all ! I have 2 800's & of course there sweet , but the 80/85 wont let you down

[BryCola]

As for the receiver, I'm buying a new one of those also. I've decided on the Onkyo 805. So now I'm thinking of the 85U instead of the 800.

And thanks so much for the info...y'all are very helpful!

[Lucy Diamond]

Check the prices at TVCITY.TV

I just got my Receiver from them and it couldn't have been a better experience.

Good luck and enjoy.

[dobyblue]

You should see the 800U for closer to $2,200 within the next few weeks from any number of venders.

I think it's worth holding off for, but you'll certainly not be disappointed by anything in the -8 series from Panny.

[rigsgoneblu]

I just bought the 85u for my bedroom yesterday. I did a lot of reasearch and only went with the 85u becuase of the better blacks provided by the high contrast ratio. I did not think the 800u was worth the difference as both have the same color components. Best buy has 12% off if you have a rewards card so I think it came to just shy of $1500 out the door. I love this tv it is a very nice picture for the $$ I think the best going.

Rigs

[elwaylite]

Originally Posted by BryCola

As for the receiver, I'm buying a new one of those also. I've decided on the Onkyo 805. So now I'm thinking of the 85U instead of the 800.

And thanks so much for the info...y'all are very helpful!

I just bought a recertified 605(does DTSHD and Master) off ecost for $278 shipped. (if price is an issue) The new model 606 is nice too.