LCD & Plasmas are improving their technologies all the time. To make your purchase as future proof as possible, make sure it's a "Full HD" set, as opposed to "HD Ready". Google the terms if you have not come across them already. Also, newer LCD sets have 100hz processing power, which promises better image quality in fast moving broadcasts (especially sport). To answer your question, Pioneer and Panasonic are the probably best Plasma manufacturers. Panasonic, Sony, Samsung and Toshiba would be considered the best LCD manufacturers. Take your time before making your choice. Get the model number of any potential purchase and check out the many review sites on the net.