Samsung LN46A550 46-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV

Samsung's 550 Series is a perfect way to step up to Full HD 1080p resolution. A fast 5 ms response rate produces smooth-motion scenes for sports and action movies, and a dynamic contrast ratio of 30,000:1 makes for deep blacks and crisp lines (15,000:1 in 32-inch and 37-inch models). Superb connectivity and networking with a USB port and 3 HDMI 1.3 ports with Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) means these HDTVs play well with all of your other electronics. Easily enjoy MPEG and JPEG files stored on external devices by connecting through the side-mounted USB 2.0, turn your LCD into a full-scale home viewing gallery, or connect your MP3 player for a dynamic audio experience.

Key Features:
- 30,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio: up from 15,000:1 on 2007 models (15,000 on 32-inch and 37-inch models)
- Fast 5ms response time: down from 8ms on 2007 models thanks to a new high-speed liquid crystal
- Full 1080p HD
- 178-degree viewing angle from all four axes with Super Patterned Vertical Alignment
- 3 HDMI 1.3 ports: Simplay compliant
- USB 2.0 port: connect devices directly to your HDTV--view JPEG photos or MPEG movies or easily listen to your MP3 player through your HDTV's audio system or your home theater system
- DNIe Digital Natural Image Engine improves the picture by enhancing the contrast, detail, and white balance (Learn more)
- Hidden speakers with SRS TruSurround XT audio (Learn more)
- Wide Color Enhancer technology and Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp (CCFL) offer a wider color range (Learn more)
- Picture-in-Picture (PIP) enables convenient simultaneous viewing of TV programs and video or PC sources
- V-Chip system allows blocking of rated TV and movie programs determined by the parent to contain objectionable content.
- Trilingual on-screen displays in English, Spanish or French.
- Variable sleep timer to turn the TV off in varying time intervals.
- Auto wall mount compatible: 3-dimensional operation via TV’s remote control; no external IR receiver required.
- Swivel stand included



Customer feedback:

1. After seamlessly receiving the TV 4 days after ordering it, it broke withing 3 hours of being delivered (there was a loud snap-like sound), and there was no power. I immediately contacted Amazon, who told me to contact Samsung directly, and if they could not handle my concerns, call back. Samsung dispatched a technician to my house 4 days later, who told me that he "thought" it was a defective power card, and that it would take 1 - 2 weeks to get the part and come back for repair.
Now I think most of you will agree that you wouldn't want a TV that was refurbished after just 1 day. Samsung refused to replace it, saying their policy is to repair, not replace. I then emailed Amazon, asking for a new television, giving the above explanation. When I called for an update the next day, my issue had already been escalated, and a new TV was about to ship, no questions asked, at 0 cost to me.
In the end, I have Amazon did everything I asked and more, including crediting my price 4 times, from 1700 all the way to 1469. The biggest fear in buying something like this online is, "what if it breaks???" Well, mine did break, and if you buy from Amazon, you can be sure that you will be happy in the end no matter what.

2. First things first, I ordered this TV directly from Amazon and within a few days the price dropped and Amazon refunded the difference. Awesome! Amazon's White Glove delivery service delivered as promised and was OK to deal with; no issues at all. So for those of you wondering whether it is better to spend a few hundred bucks to order this set from a brick and mortar store; keep your money in your pocket and order from Amazon.
As for the TV, I am not a video expert type, but I do research big ticket items thoroughly before buying. This set and the previous generations received great reviews. However, I was torn between plasma and LCD. Being a big sports fan (lots of fast moving action on the screen) I had been leaning towards plasma. But the reviews of this set and the benefits of LCD over plasma (lighter, uses less energy, no risk of burn in and better for well lit rooms) made me make the plunge.
Overall, I am extremely satisfied. This is my first HDTV and I am using Directv HD service and the picture is outstanding. It is sharp, bright and overall beautiful. The only issue I have, which I was worried about with the LCDs, is that I do notice some pixelation when scenes move very fast (Thus 4 instead of 5 stars). However, it is not distracting but I do notice it.