Need help regarding HDTV

[Contrary1]

It's become a tradition that whenever my husband leaves town for several days, I make a major purchase. :evilgrin:
He's wanted an HDTV for a long time, so I'm gonna splurge. I am woefully ignorant on the subject and need some input and opinions.

What's better...plasma, DLP, LCD? Rear projection or flat? I am planning on buying something in the size range 42-55 inches. Does that make a difference on which is better?

Also, I've been shopping around. One salesman told me Samsung makes the best, another said Hitachi. Any opinions on that?

Lastly, we have digital cable. Do I need any special hookups? Some TVs I've looked at are "digital cable card ready". Will that save me from having yet another black box/remote in my family room?

All thoughts are appreciated.

Thanks in advance. :hi:

[Oeditpus Rex]

1. As usual, I go to Crutchfield

Scroll down a bit to "Helpful TV Info." :hi:

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-RPGfvSCvO94/hdtv/?cm_re_o=fBBk_B0*kbELS*tpfMjt6

[REP]

2. We Have a 42" HP Flat Plasma

Very happy with it. We have digital satellite/DVR; no problems hooking it up.

Advice: go out and actually look at the sets. The one we got had the best picture/blacks plus wasn't butt-ugly (and received excellent reviews).