Originally Posted by longhornato

I've been a lurker on this site for a while, and have checked past threads for an answer to my display resolution question, but didn't see any that specifically addressed my question.

I am in the market for a second HDTV set for the bedroom and want a 42" flat panel. I currently have a 60" Sony rear-projection LCD in my living room, so I'm somewhat familiar with LCD technology.

I have been leaning towards plasma because we will mostly use the set at night (so glare isn't an issue), and for a variety of TV shows (50% non-HD broadcasts), movies (standard DVD), and some sports.

The set I am looking at is an LG 42PC5D b/c I can get a great deal on TV, and was very impressed with the set in the store. However, the resolution is 1024x768 (like most older 42" plasmas), and I have an HD cable box through Comcast on my Sony and will use the same box on the plasma. I don't have any issues with the Sony converting the signal from the cable box, but I'm wondering whether I will notice any major differences with the plasma resolution. I am particularly concerned about the plasma "cutting off" the score tickers at the top and bottom of football broadcasts, and how it will look displaying non-HD programming.

I am contemplating either spending an extra $100 to get a 1366x768 LCD, or $300-400 more to get a full 1080p LCD or Plasma (although I haven't found as many 42" plasmas at that higher resolution). I don't anticipate buying a 1080p video game system or high-def DVD for that TV, and from everything I've read 1080i will be the standard for cable HDTV broadcasts for a few more years.

Basically, what are the consensus opinions (or facts) around here regarding 1080i HDTV broadcasts displayed on 720p (1024x768), 720p (1366x768), and 1080p LCD and Plasma sets?

Thanks in advance,
Ben