Whilst it is true that LG do make a large number of panels for other manufacturers, the engine that drives the panel does differ from company to company. Just because you buy a TV with an LG panel, doesn't mean that all TVs are equal. It isn't even true to say that a 1080 set is always better than a 720 set, so be very careful
LCDs have come a long way in the last few months and the 'washed put' picture referred to earlier in the thread is no longer relevant. The main issue with LCDs is the backlight, which increases colour vibrancy, but did nothing for black levels. I've got a Sony LCD and out of the box the picture was awful. A little research via the internet (the AVForums is really excellent) and I have a picture now that is spot on, but it takes time to get it right.
As for the 720 vs 1080 debate, well it isn't simple. Apparently the human eye can not detect the difference between 720p and 1080p at a viewing distance of more than 7 feet, so viewing distance is something else you need to take into consideration. I went for a 1080/24 set as I watch a lot of films, but for normal TV I still use Sky's standard service. As Entwisi says above, Sky's HD service transmits at either 720 or 1080i, so strictly aren't full HD anyway.
It is a minefield, but I'd suggest seeing as many as possible and not just in big sales rooms e.g. Currys, Comet, etc. Book a viewing with someone like Roy Jowett in Colne, who will give you far better advice than a salesman in a big retail store. I went into a Comet store when I was looking for a new Tv and the bloke lied to me about so many things that it was fun to wind him up and see what he'd say next.
