Good LCD TV buy?

I'm looking for a good quality LCD HD TV 26 inch or bigger for about $600. I know I'm not gonna get something top-of-the line but I don't want crap either. If I can't find something of good quality, I'm just gonna but an old school tube TV and wait for prices to fall.

Answer:
Please do not buy an off name brand (or mongrel as I call them).
It is best to invest your hard earned money in a set with proven reliability, a brand name that actually has service available if you need it, and a great picture. You will pay more but in the long run it is worth it. Make sure that wherever you buy your tv from they will service the set or at the very least help you find a service center.
So many times big box stores sell the set then say you are on your own for service. Especially with off name/mongrel brands.
One of my favorites is Panasonic (TC-26LX70) retails for around 700-800, Sony (KDL-26S3000 - new model due out in a couple of weeks) retails for around 999 or so (you pay more because it is a Sony), and Toshiba - I don't have a current model # handy - should retail for around 700ish. All are good brand names, have the available service, and reliability.
Toshiba is best for entry level sets - tend to be a bit cheaper money wise (not quality wise) and is a nice looking set.
Panasonic is a good mid/top of the line set. They have focused most of their business on plasma but they stand behind their sets and the tv's have great pictures/sound.
Sony best top of the line set but also the most expensive. If you are a Sony fan - save your pennies (and dollars) because it will be worth it. Sony is the best in the LCD industry. They know what they are doing and it shows.

You may also want to consider purchasing an extended warranty. They typically are available in 2,3,4, and 5 yr contracts and will cover (if you get the right one) what the manufacturer's warranty will not (ie lightning hits/power surges). The one we sell at work also comes with a lemon law policy. If we have to repair the tv for the SAME problem 3 times they will replace the set to you at no charge.

So - whatever you do, make sure you do your research - compare the various models/brands side by side (on the same type of input - hd, standard, and dvd if possible), and make an informed decision. I promise you will be happy with whatever you choose if you do.
Good luck
My 32 in. Westinghouse has been great for seven months now. 699.00 at Best Buy
Get the Sharp Flat Panel 20" LCD TV . Its good .

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