Who makes the best LCD TVs?

Hi Everyone,

I am in the process of buying an LCD projection tv. I would like to get at least a 55 inch screen.

I am curious though to hear who the industry leaders are in making LCD tv’s. A sales person told me that Hitachi and Panasonic were the tvs to look at and that Sony was getting themselves out of the LCD market and are no longer updating their technology. Is this statement valid?

I have never bought a Hitachi tv before and I am always leary about Panasonic since I have always had some problems with other technology that I have purchased from them. Since this is such a big purchase, I want to make sure that I can get the most bang for my buck…

All of your advice would be appreciated.

Thanks
Mel