Well I'm shopping for one myself so I'll throw my 2 cents in.
First of all, don't worry about the 1080p thing. The only time there is a difference is on 55" or bigger screens. Even then I can't justify the extra $500-$1000 cost.
If you play a lot of video games and watch sports, you may want to consdier a plasma. I haven't seen the difference head-to-head but fast moving action is apparently suited for plasma. Having said that, they are supposed to be more suspectable to glare, though newer models are getting better.
As for brands, it seems to be popular knowledge that the best go to Pioneer, Panasonic, and Samsung.
This is the one I decided on.
http://www.bestbuy.ca/catalog/prodde...52&catid=23249
I was offered this price through a local shop, so I don't think it gets much lower than this.
Might be worth the extra $250 for a 50" screen.