Sony FWD-50PX1 50" Plasma TV

I replaced a 30 inch Sony XBR flat panel LCD WEGA TV with this 50 inch Sony FWD-PX1 flat plasma monitor, so I've had the advantage of comparing them closely. The XBR is still in service in the kids' rec room.

The XBR's WEGA engine optimizes all video signals and so you wind up with beautiful images in both standard definition and HD modes. But, in my opinion, while the WEGA improves standard def images, it homogenizes HD somewhat. By comparison, the FWD displays, wonderfully, exactly what it gets. This means that your standard def signals don't benefit from WEGA tweaking, but your high def input is completely unobstructed. This TV, when coupled with high quality HD component input cables (it uses commercial HD15 connection inputs rather than standard consumer red/blue/green jacks) displays high def like I'd never seen it before. I recommend Monster Cable's pricey HD15 to red/blue/green component video cable (around $200 plus but worth it).

I am not using Sony's speakers so I can't remark on the sound.

When I got my FWD-PX1 from Elite Plasma, they weren't yet available through consumer retail outlets. I ran the data past an acquaintance who is an exec at one of the major chains and I see they are now offering it: good decision!

The side mount inputs allow for virtually flat-to-the-wall mounting when an appropriate 1" mounting bracket is used, but be sure to anticipate wiring requirements correctly.

This is an outstanding TV monitor that is capable of spectacular HD display.