Panasonic’s 103" plasma TV recently became available for purchase on a number of U.S. websites. And apparently, the device isn’t quite a hot seller, with even a limited supply resulting in ample availability on the web. As a result, prices for the TV already have dropped considerably, with most etailers offering a $20,000 discount : Instead of the suggested retail price of nearly $70,000, the TH-103PF9UK is offered for just under $50,000.

While the TV remains out of reach for most consumers, it is without doubt the ultimate TV offered this Christmas season : The plasma TV runs at 1080p resolution (1920x1080 progressive), offers a contrast ration of 4000:1 and a viewing angle of "more than 160 degrees". The effective viewing area measures about 89 by 50 inches.

At this time, 103" is the best money can buy, but the next generation of HDTVs is already knocking on our doors. The first Quad HD LCD panels were shown at a trade show in Japan - and will offer a resolution of 1440p (2560x1440) and further down the road even 2160p (3840x2160). First 1440p models are scheduled for mass production in the second quarter of 2007.

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Panasonic to offer $70,000 plasma TV for Christmas