42" OR 50" And what MODEL???

[dreamdjs]

Here's the skinny... I have a basement apt. with a floor to ceiling height of 6ft. The length of the wall I will put the t.v. on is 14ft wide. The average distance from to t.v. to seat(viewing) will be about 8ft.
I have a Playstation2/X-Box 360 that I play more than the average casual gamer. I also watch alot of DVD's and sports telecasts. I have a home computer and although surfing on the t.v. is not essential, I would consider it if it had the input for it. However, I would certainly sacrifice that for quality and price. I wouldn't mind PIP as well. I have Optimum cable service from cablevision.

So, what size do I buy? What features do I consider? Is 50" too big???
I have done some research and although the Panasonic models seem like the best, frankly, I am a little overwhelmed by all the information.

Please help. Thank You :)

[CruelInventions]

6 ft.? WoW, sounds more like an attic apt than a basement! :D

I recommend that you look up the dimension specs for both a 42" and a 50" panel from one of the sponsors at the top of the forum page, and take some cardboard or even just masking tape in the form of a panel, and throw up a mock-up representation of both sizes on the wall you're planning on placing the display.

If you are going to be there a while, I would recommend the 42", as a 50" will swallow up that small room. A 42" will look very large as it is. But, if you'll be moving to a larger location within a couple years, maybe still consider the 50". Many consider a 50" panel to be the best price/performance value right now, but I wouldn't say that should be your primary consideration for making a decision, as the 42" is no slouch in the price/performance value dept either, particularly if it works better for your room size and budget.

Also, I think the prevaling wisdom in regards to computer usage is that a 50" would be a little better performer for this kind of application, as this size handle resolutions a little better.

[GlennMaples]

At a 8' viewing distance I would go 50".

But be aware that you will pay twice as much for it. :-(

TODAY (especially today :-)) the best value is 42". However, larger is almost always better. I have a 50 inch panny and love it.

-glenn

[Gouie]

Tell that to my wife. She's cursing at the size of our 42" in the bedroom!