I bought a 52" Samsung LCD television after reading a lot of reviews of different TV's.I ended up getting the best deal thru BuyDig.com.They took about a week to get the TV to me(I ordered online over a weekend)and it was shipped to my home,the delivery guy helped me open the carton,and set the TV up.Full warranty,no tax or shipping.Sony and Samsung use a lot of the same parts,(who they get from Panasonic)so that's why their pictures look pretty much the same.I based my choice on the TV displays in the various big box stores(Best Buy Circuit City etc) and also online reviews and suggestions.
Also,once you get the new set,get the HD upgrade from your sattelite or cable provider,the difference is night and day!! I have Direct TV and have had them for 11 years.