In an effort to prove its technological prowess, Panasonic rocked CES 2008 with the world's largest plasma at 150-inches. Previous year's record was at 104-inches with this year's second place winners (yes, there were multiple) coming in at a distant 108-inches. Whew, what a sight!
While impressive, keep in mind that at the moment, it's just a concept design. We better hope it's just a concept design, too. Those of you who have just purchased a new HDTV, can you imagine how little your 42, 50 or even 60-inch looks compared to this behemoth? We would want to wait a couple of years before feeling nauseated with our new purchase. Couple of years is what Panasonic is quoting before "Life Screen" hits production. Naturally, the name signifies the oversized display for life-size images.
150-inches, for reference, translate to 12ft. 6in. in length and 11ft. in width. Be prepared to have a spare wall to mount this TV on. On the other hand, if it makes you feel better, it's only 1in. from the wall. It may take over the entire wall (hey, that's one less wall to worry about for decor), but it won't invade your living room space. How thoughtful of Panasonic! Also, Panasonic reps commented that homeowners would want to have steel support before mounting the TV. We concur.
For $150,000, we are not taking any chances. The price isn't official, but industry sources estimate the price to be somewhere in this range noting the $1,000-per-inch price point for comparison.
The real question is - even if you could afford it, why would you want it from a practicality standpoint? This will definitely help you beat the Jones'. Heck, it'll even help you beat the Gates', Buffett's and everyone else with a "B" in their net worth, until they get one, too, of course. You might as well take the same $150,000, your basement and turn it into a commercial grade home theater with top of the line seating and A/V equipment. Even then, it might just cost you less than $150,000. The Life Screen plasma can't replace the true theater experience.
Note to Panasonic: Let's shoot for a 200-inch TV next year. Ya know, just for kicks. And free press.
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