Sampo PME-42V3

Readying the picture controls was easy as well, but be warned that this is a powerful panel, capable of producing more than 30 foot-lamberts (fL) of screen intensity with a white test pattern. By turning down the contrast and brightness a bit, you'll still get a good picture with lots of contrast and prolong the life of your investment. There are also three selectable color temperatures. We measured the warmest setting at just less than 7,000 degrees, not far off from the 6,500 degrees specified by the American television system. Many consumer TVs don't come nearly that close. The supplied remote is a nice size and very easy to use, with a good range. You'll also have access to all operating and menu controls from the lower front of the panel.

With close to 30 different 42-inch plasma displays on the market right now from nearly a dozen manufacturers, the competition is fierce. Unfortunately, the Sampo display doesn't stand out from the crowd in terms of picture quality or features, so the price is a huge determining factor. Industry giant Sony is selling a similar panel with a list price that's $1,000 less than that of the PME-42V3. But the street prices vary widely from the manufacturer's price. So if you come across a real bargain on this Sampo model, it might be just what your living room needs.