In the $1500 HDTV range, the Samsung LCD panels and the Panasonic Plasmas seem to be getting the highest ratings for their respective technologies. Sony's are popular for the name but not always the highest rated. You would probably looking at a screen size somewhere between 37" and 46". Look at some of the reviews online at like CNET or Ecoustics.

You'll end up getting a bigger screen if you buy last year's model instead of a smaller screen featuring all the bells and whistles for the same price. Get the right screen for your room, not just for the price.