shane55, I believe you are correct on the plasma half-life issue. When I wrote up my previous comment I was going from memory, and was probably a bit off on some of my figures. Also, I believe that plasma technologies have improved since the first plasma sets were released.

And you certainly can burn in a CRT - just go to the bank and check out some of the ATM CRT displays....ewwww.... I would be cautious about the opinions of those who trash one technology over the other. Each technology has some advantages and disadvantages and just like with audio, it's a personal choice.

Good luck with your new TV purchase ChrisC!