[FanIn80]

Like other people in this thread, I've had a Panasonic plasma for quite a few years now. No noticeable issues with burn-in or ghosting. I use my TV for everything, too. It's the only one I have, and it's on for hours at a time. Movies, games, TV, music (from my Apple TV). I don't even baby it at all. When I bought it, I just set it up and turned it on. That was the only prep I've ever done.

I'm fairly certain this stuff has more to do with buying a crappy brand than anything else. It's very common knowledge that Panasonic makes the best plasmas.

Edit: Also, that bit about avoiding plasmas unless you have a super dark room is a bit whack, too. Just get the anti-glare option. Mine's in my living room beside a huge window that lets in a ton of light. There's also a window facing opposite in my kitchen that used to reflect on my old CRT TV all the time... no glare at all on my plasma. Any time of day.