$500 - $600 TVs

The Bottom Line: While no style maven or template for reference color, the Toshiba AV502U series can do black levels better than most inexpensive LCDs.

Specs: LCD TV, 37 in, 720p, High-gloss black

The Bottom Line: The Philips PFL6704D series falls short of the competition's performance, but it does have a cool design and relatively accurate color.

Specs: LCD TV, 32 in, 500, 1920 x 1080

The Bottom Line: Although it's not the best iPod-friendly TV we've tested, the Panasonic TC-LX1 provides a convenient, affordable gateway to access video and music based on your iPod or iPhone.

Specs: LCD TV, 37 in, 12000:1, 1366 x 768, 16:9

The Bottom Line: While its black levels and uniformity mark the LG LH30 series as an entry-level display, its extensive picture controls allow the color accuracy of a flagship model.

Specs: LCD TV, 37 in, 500, 50000:1, 1920 x 1080, 16:9, Gloss black

The Bottom Line: Accurate color performance helps the Vizio VOJ370F stand out from the midsize LCD pack.

Specs: LCD TV, 37 in, 500, 6500:1, 1300:1, 1920 x 1080, 16:9

The Bottom Line: CNET did not review the Samsung LN32A550, but we did review a larger model in the series.

Specs: LCD TV, 32 in, 15000:1, 1920 x 1080, 16:9

The Bottom Line: The Vizio VP422 is a 42-inch plasma with a rock-bottom price tag and picture quality that, while certainly not perfect, should satisfy casual viewers.

Specs: Plasma TV, 42 in, 1500 cd/m2, 30000:1, 1024 x 720, 16:9

The Bottom Line: CNET did not review the 42-inch LG 42LG30, but we did review a smaller model in the series.

Specs: LCD TV, 42 in, 500, 12000:1, 1366 x 768, 16:9, Gloss piano black

The Bottom Line: LG's 32LG30 doesn't produce the deepest black levels, but its color accuracy after calibration will warm geeky hearts.

Specs: LCD TV, 32 in, 500, 12000:1, 1366 x 768, 16:9, Gloss piano black

The Bottom Line: CNET did not review the Samsung LN37A450, but we did review a smaller model in the series.

Specs: LCD TV, 37 in, 10000:1, 1366 x 768, 16:9