The next generation of high-definition flat panels

The opening of the World Cup tonight coincides with a week in which a number of large, new flat-panel displays were announced. Coincidence? I don't think so.


Seriously, this week saw Panasonic introduce their ninth generation commercial line of plasma displays, which have been very popular with high-definition TV enthusiasts who integrate them into home theater systems. With some of the best black levels in the business and a list price of US$3,995, these systems should help Panasonic retain its number one spot in manufacturing plasma displays.


During the same week, though, Sharp announced availability of its new 65-inch Aquos liquid crystal display (LCD) TVs, model LC-65D90U. This theater definition 1080p panel, while not the largest currently available (that would be a 100-inch one made by LG.Philips), at least the 65-incher will probably cost less than your car, although that depends on your automotive taste. Current street pricing for the LC-65D90U is around $14,995.


So what's the marketing spin on these introductions? Simply this: new products tend to push down the prices on older products as retailers try to move out older inventory in favor of new. Both the 8th generation Panasonic panels and the smaller Sharp products should decline in price over the next few months; savvy buyers will keep an eye on this older stock. You can monitor the Amazon availability and prices through the links below.

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