$500 - $600 TVs

The Bottom Line: While no style maven or template for reference color, the Toshiba AV502U series can do black levels better than most inexpensive LCDs.

Specs: LCD TV, 37 in, 720p, High-gloss black

The Bottom Line: The Philips PFL6704D series falls short of the competition's performance, but it does have a cool design and relatively accurate color.

Specs: LCD TV, 32 in, 500, 1920 x 1080

The Bottom Line: While its black levels and uniformity mark the LG LH30 series as an entry-level display, its extensive picture controls allow the color accuracy of a flagship model.

Specs: LCD TV, 31.5 in, 500, 50000:1, 1920 x 1080, 16:9, Gloss black

The Bottom Line: CNET did not review the Hitachi UT32X812, but we did review a larger model in a different series.

Specs: LCD flat panel display, 32 in, 1366 x 768, 16:9, Crystal black sapphire with chrome trim

The Bottom Line: With a built-in DVD player and excellent color accuracy, the LG 32LG40 is a top-notch choice for an all-in-one 32-inch LCD.

Specs: LCD TV, 32 in, 500, 12000:1, 1366 x 768, 16:9, Glossy red

The Bottom Line: The Vizio VP422 is a 42-inch plasma with a rock-bottom price tag and picture quality that, while certainly not perfect, should satisfy casual viewers.

Specs: Plasma TV, 42 in, 1500 cd/m2, 30000:1, 1024 x 720, 16:9

Specs: Plasma panel, 42 in, 30000:1, 1024 x 768, 16:9

Specs: LCD TV, 40 in, 40000:1, 1920 x 1080, 16:9, Piano black

Specs: LCD TV, 40 in, 1080p, High-gloss black

Specs: LCD TV, 31.5 in, 30000:1, 3000:1, 1920 x 1080, 16:9, Piano black