What in the HD World?

Last month, as I entered a Best Buy, I was stopped in my tracks when I saw a 50" plasma TV on sale for 500 buckaroos.

Ten dollars an inch for a beautiful plasma TV. I almost bought one on pure impulse.

Now, I realize that times are tough for many as the wallet seems to be getting thinner. But if you are in the market for a new TV, I was hoping that with the holiday shopping season kicking in to high gear this week, we would see similar jaw dropping deals. I received an email on Monday confirming that indeed Santa is smiling.

Samsung announced their Black Friday Offerings and they included their 51" D430 Series Plasma TV for $499. (The 43" is $399.)

Of course, at that price, you should expect to be giving up some features and this model is a 720p TV instead of one with a resolution of 1080p.

I know some may believe this next statement to be heresy. For many of you, you will never notice the difference between a 720p display and a 1080p one, especially if you are sitting a comfortable distance from the TV.

And if you have read my reviews over the years, you are familiar with my love of a plasma TV's ability to display luscious deep blacks that are the foundation to deliciously rich colors.

I consider the tradeoff of a little less resolution for deeper blacks (and an extra couple of hundred dollars in my pocket) a nice bit of Christmas cheer.

Also, don't expect these TVs to be packed with features like Internet connectivity. If you want to stream Netflix on your TV, you can buy an Internet capable Blu-ray player for under $100.

Though if you wish to go 3D, Samsung is offering its 51" D490 Series 720p Plasma 3D TV for $599, including four 3D glasses.

Now, I think you should find similar deals from the other two major makers of plasma TVs, Panasonic and LG.

For example, a nicely featured Panasonic VIERA 42" Class X3 Series 720p Plasma carries a Black Friday price of $499.

Have a great Ho, ho, ho, Holidays.

Stay tuned.