I have one of the first Panasonic 42's. The TH-42PWD4UK. It's only an EDTV, technically, because the HDTV resolution wasnt available 5 yrs ago when we bought it.
I have NO complaints about this display. Even today, I'd put this head to head with all of the cheap branded HDTV 42 inch displays. It looks that good. I've had no problems with this display at all.
Like Fozzie said, if you are tempted by a plasma, this is a deal not to pass up.
Another place that has them really cheap is AVDeals. Extended warranty and a wall mount thrown in, for $2200.
http://www.avdeals.ca/panasonicplasma/th42phd8uk.htm