Before the age of all-digital televisions, receivers were usually bulky, quite heavy, and awkward to move. Projection models were adequate, but often lacked vivid contrast and color tones. With the advent of all-digital broadcasting, however, television took a quantum leap in picture quality, providing a good reason for many customers to buy a Panasonic VIERA large screen HDTV, including the Panasonic Viera TC-P50S30 50-Inch 1080p Plasma HDTV.

The new models are light and thin, weighing only a few pounds. They may be placed on a narrow shelf, or hung on the wall like a favorite photograph. Two main types dominate the market, including LCD (liquid crystal display), and plasma TV sets. Both varieties have individual strengths and a few drawbacks, but are well suited for use in a home theater setting.

The company currently provides a wide assortment of 42-to-65 inch plasma televisions. It dominates the plasma TV market with sets that are acknowledged to have more color depth compared to LCD, and a superior contrast ratio. These displays are very well-suited to big viewing rooms, and have measurably better motion tracking overall.

Plasma disadvantages in the past have included a problem with “burn in”, which is a form of picture retention. The use of pixel orbiters has eliminated most of it, but the sets still draw more power and create more heat than others. These sets are best viewed in darker rooms, and high-altitude customers may experience more problems.

LCD models generally offer full 1080p resolution. While often bigger than 37 inches measured diagonally, LCD technology is also ideal for use in relatively smaller sets. They are lighter and easier to move, but their main disadvantage seems to be the possibility of individual pixel burnout, which creates small dark dots in the picture.

Both types of sets are usually surrounded by a glossy, elegant and simple black frame. Before actually visiting a brick-and-mortal television outlet, be sure to visit a website featuring all current VIERA models. Find the features that best suit you, and consider the latest in 3-D television technology, a format which is becoming more popular with the resurgence of 3-D films.

Avoid making a final decision to buy a Panasonic VIERA large screen HDTV until you see both LCD and plasma models in a side-by-side comparison. Most electronic stores have a viewing room, so make it a point to insist on a demonstration of both types. Each incorporates the latest high-definition technology, and both can provide a superior viewing experience.