Yes, you might have to look at response rates also. Lower time is better obviously. The newer 120hz tvs are great for high activity sports and gaming. No “screen stuttering” like some tvs.
Also the plasma ordeal. Dont shy away. There are plenty of very nice plasmas. They have really high ratio ratings and response times are quick, quicker than LCDs. The whole life expectancy BS is just that. Alot of people have had their plasmas for 5+ years with no picture quality decrease. They will over a longer period of time eventually break down, but then u can replace the tube. Hell by that time you may even want a newer, bigger TV. Like the 3D Tvs coming out in the future!
Few sites that may help…
http://bestbuy-cnet.com.com/4351-12658_7-6583301.html
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/electronics-computers/tvs-services/hdtv/tv-types/lcd-vs.-plasma-3-08/overview/lcd-vs-plasma-tvs-ov.htm
LCDs
Samsung #1
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_05771074000P?
vName=Computers+%26+Electronics&cName=Televisions&sName=Flat+Panel
Samsung #2 Little better contrast ratio (My favorite)
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_05771065000P?vName=Computers+%26+Electronics&cName=Televisions&sName=Flat+Panel