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Let me begin by saying that I am a fan of plasma display technology. As a rule, I still prefer it over direct-lit LED LCD TVs because plasmas can generate deeper blacks which result in richer colors.

The new 2011 models of LEDs are narrowing the gap, but for that sinfully luscious PQ, I still favor plasmas.

Since Pioneer stop producing those iconic Kuros, Panasonic has been one of the companies that have bravely upheld the plasma banner. And the VIERA GT30 series is a great example of the silky PQ for which plasmas are renowned.

I do have one slight quibble. When in THX mode, the image will occasionally but noticeably shift from that lovely deep background to a slightly lighter one. It's as if the TV is automatically adjusting, but I can't pinpoint why.

I have turned off any of the variable controls like C.A.T.S., which when On, automatically adjusts the screen brightness according to the ambient lighting condition.

Anyway, it's not a deal breaker, especially when considering the GT30's excellent PQ.

Add to that, the 3D performance of the TC-P50GT30 is one of the best that I have experienced.

At this time, my favorite 3D reference movie is the inspired Alice in Wonderland 3D Blu-ray. In the scene where Alice steps into Wonderland with those rocking horse flies buzzing around, I have never seen the 3Dness rendered better.

If you haven't been christened into the 3D TV world, let me warn you not to expect that every frame of a 3D Blu-ray will pop your peepers out of their sockets. From my viewing, I would say that less than 10% of a 3D movie features those wowie zowie 3D moments.

(As an aside, I don't know how you can judge what a 3D TV is like by looking through those glasses fixed on a stand in front of a TV displayed in a big box store.)

One impediment still remains in the wide acceptance of 3D TVs, those active shutter glasses required to sync with the 3D images displayed on the screen.

First, they are expensive. ($180 each retail or the Ultimate Pack with two sets of glasses and the 3D Avatar Blu-ray for $400 retail.) You can do the math for a family of four or more.

Second, my eyes become fatigued after prolonged wearing. I start to notice it after about a half hour. Younger eyes may have much better stamina.

I tend to crowd the screen, but I made a point of sitting at least the recommended 6' 2" away from the TV (6' 8" for the 55" GT30 model).

Finally, all 3D glasses, including the passive polarizing type common in theaters, reduce the brightness and color of the image too much for my liking.

3D TVs that don't require glasses might be on the horizon, but for now if you want to enjoy a big screen 3D experience at home, the glasses (active or passive) are necessary.

The integrated pair of 10W audio speakers in the TC-50GT30 are quite serviceable for general broadcast TV viewing. But when you are playing the Tron Legacy 3D Blu-ray, give yourself the pleasure of feeling Daft Punk's soundtrack vibrate the subwoofer in a dedicated 5.1 or 7.1 audio system.

The Panasonic TC-50GT30 plasma not only delivers a deliciously lush 2D picture, its rendering of 3D Blu-rays is one of the best that I have seen. Add to that a strong troupe of Internet content providers and this VIERA GT30 makes a great centerpiece to a home theater system.