Samsung PN50A450 50-Inch 720p Plasma HDTV

Prices on plasma HDTVs just keep falling while the technology manufacturers are packing into their new models just keeps skyrocketing.

One of the latest series of plasma televisions to exemplify this trend is Samsung's 2008 line-up of PN model plasmas, such as the one profiled here, the 50-inch, 450-series model PN50A450.

For a fraction of what you might have paid a few years ago for a similarly sized and equipped set, the PN50A450 delivers might just deliver more you could ever ask for while not breaking the bank. (Check current Amazon price here.)

Here's a quick feature review of the Samsung PN50A450...

The PN50A450 doesn't include 1080p support, rather displaying up to 720p of HD resolution, but that may be enough to meet your needs if a) you don't have video sources capable of outputting full 1080p, and b) you don't have the eyes of a superhuman.

Many videophiles agree that the difference between 1080p and 720p are negligable on sets 50 inches or smaller, meaning if you bypassed a set like the PN50A450 in favor of one of its more expensive 1080p-capable cousins, you could be needlessly spending extra for added resolution you won't really notice.

But aside from resolution, the PN50A450 features many of the same bells and whistles of the more upscale 1080p models from Samsung, such as Ultra FilterBright™ anti-glare technology, a stunning 1,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, and SRS TruSurround XT audio system.

In comparison vs. some of the newest plasma models from the likes of Pioneer and Panasonic, the PN50A450 holds its own in these key specs and more.

For instance, comparing the number of input options, the PN50A450 should have you more than covered, with 3 HDMI connections for your HD-capable components and a host of other input choices.

And the PN50A450 comes ready to display 3D movies that will feature the latest in three-dimensional digital technologies, truly making your purchase "future-proof" as you await the newest forms of entertainment coming around the corner.

But don't go buying a TV just yet. Reviews on this or any other site can only provide so much insight. Your research won't be complete until you learn what other consumers like you think of the PN50A450 after they've put it to use in their own homes. Check out their user reviews at Amazon.com.

Compare the Samsung PN50A450 to these big-screen Plasmas: