Editor's Choice: Pioneer KURO PDP 4280HD 5080HD 5010FD 6010FD Plasma HDTV

Update May 7, 2008: Pioneer announces release of the next generation of KUROs, the 1080P PDP-5020FD and the 1080P PDP-6020FD.

Update May 6,2008: Unfortunately, most discount outlets sold out of our top pick Pioneer Kuro PDP-5080HD within the last few months. The few remaining outlets are charging at or near list price for this set, which places the 720P 5080HD in the same price category as the Pioneer PDP-5010FD 50-inch Plasma HDTV. At this price the PDP-5080HD takes a back seat to the 1080P PDP-5010FD. For the same amount of money it only makes sense to go with the PDP-5010FD. Should the dealers restock the PDP-5080HD--at discount prices--we'll revert to our original recommendation. Until that happens you should seriously consider the 1080P PDP-5010FD. Amazon and OneCall.com currently offer this set at a huge discount. Don't sit on the sidelines--get one now before they're sold out as well. The reason is simple. There is no 50" HDTV that is even close to the Pioneer KUROs in picture quality. Don't settle for anything less. Meantime, our original recommendation remains intact below, in the hopes that the stocks of PDP-5080HDs are replenished, at which point the 720P PDP-5080HD will once again be our top choice. [Editorial Comment May 6, 2008.]

We'll say it up front. The Pioneer KURO PDP-5080HD 50 inch 720P Plasma HDTV is best available HDTV in it's size and price range. Black-level performance is one of the most important aspects of picture quality. When a display can produce a deep shade of black, it not only improves the realism and the punch of dark scenes, it also makes colors look richer and more saturated. That's why Pioneer PDP-5080HD is currently the top value and our highest rated pick. This 50-inch plasma produces the darkest shade of black we've ever seen in a HDTV. It also offers one of the best antireflective screens available. The Pioneer cost a little more than similar size and resolution HDTVs on the market. Spend a few extra bucks. The Pioneer PDP-5080HD delivers an incredible picture and is without question the best value in its size range. Don't be concerned with the 720p resolution vs. the more expensive 1080p sets. At normal viewing distances the 720p looks every bit as good as its 1080p counterparts. Save your money and go for the 720P Pioneer PDP-5080HD 50-inch 720p Plasma HDTV. Read more here.

If 50 inches is a bit larger than you need you should consider the Pioneer PDP-4280HD 42-inch 720p Plasma HDTV. These sets are selling quickly and many locations are currently sold out. Don't sit on the sidelines too long or you might have to wait for next year's models. You can snap up the PDP-4280 at a great price... if you can find one!

If you're a purist or just have to have a 1080P set the Pioneer PDP-5010FD 50-inch 1080p Plasma HDTV is your best choice. If you need a large screen the Pioneer PDP-6010FD 60-inch 1080p Plasma HDTV is the top choice. You'll spend a few extra bucks for the KURO 1080p sets, but you'll also have the best HDTV currently available.