Answer:
Here's links to the technical details of the two types:
LCD: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LCD
Plasma: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plasma_display
Basically what it comes down to is that Plasma TVs have the highest "native" contrast ratios(40,000:1), giving them the blackest blacks and most vivid and rich looking colors! They also have the fastest response times(.001ms) and fastest refresh rates(600hz)! Making them the best at producing the sharpest and smoothest motion possible with content like sports, movies & gaming!
The brand of HDTV with the lowest failure rate…Panasonic! I highly recommend them.
For more info on LCD and Plasma TVs, see here: http://www.plasma-lcd-facts.co.uk/
720p – best for farther viewing distances
1080p – best for closer viewing distances
Here is a chart that will help determine which resolution type is best for your situation: http://s3.carltonbale.com/resolution_chart.html
For the size range that you're looking for, you'll want a 46-50inch 720p for viewing distances of 8-14ft. A 46-50inch 1080p TV for distances of 6-8ft.
Also keep in mind that not all sources display in full HD(1080p)! The only sources that do display in full HD are Blu-ray players and game consoles like Xbox 360(games only) and PS3(games & Blu-ray). Some satellite companies may have a channel or two that are in full HD…check with them to find out which and how many!
Hope this helps!
