Overview

Last year after reviewing numerous TVs, my holiday recommendation for bang-for-the-buck was the Panasonic ST30 series. This year I won't be surprised if -- after reviewing however many other 2012 TVs come down the pike -- that recommendation will go to the ST50. Yes, you can get a cheaper TV, but the ST50 is pretty affordable even now, and it's worth the money for any buyer serious about picture quality who can't wait for holiday price drops.

The ST50 handily outperforms its predecessor, with deeper blacks, more accurate color, and an improved bright-room image. The picture is so good, in fact, that it scored the same as the flagship VT30 I lauded last year, and in person it's tough to tell the two apart. If anything, the ST50 looks better. It sets a lofty standard for HDTV picture quality this year, and one I feel confident only a few TVs will approach. I doubt any of them will do it for less money.

Read the full review of the Panasonic TC-P55ST50.