As you can see from all the replies, there are a million options out there. I bought a Toshiba 50" widescreen rear projection (50H82 Theaterwide HD) about a year ago from Best Buy. (priced matched $1800. and a free DVD player) RPTV has definately come along way. I don't have a very bright room with full curtains over my windows, so this may play a big part in, but I have no complaints with this TV. I am still amazed at the picture, especially HD and DVDs. Approx. same size room and seating position as you. I believe the 50" is a 51" in this years model. All the ratings I read on it when I bought placed it in the top couple RPTVs at that time. Honostly, if I were in the market in the same price range, I would look at this TV again.
Like Spiff said, the wait and see game could last forever. There is ALWAYS something bigger and better coming.
