Before I read this thread, I already had my answer mapped out. I agree with everything that has been said. Manufacturers should get back to basics and sort out the quality of the primary function - in this case, to produce a top quality picture. I've had similar discussions recently about AV receiver manufacturers. I think they're pandering more to the "it has to do everything" mentality rather than doing what it is supposed to be doing to the best of it's abilities. There's way too many features on products nowadays.