Last Minute TV Advice Needed

[AuroEdge]

I'm close to buying a new TV but would like some last minute advice. My budget is $2000 and I'm looking for 45-55". Basically I have two questions: LCD or Plasma & Brand?

• LCD/Plasma: I read that the only advantages Plasmas have over the top LCDs are black levels and off-angle viewing. Other than that things like power consumption and what not are easily won by LCD sets. I just saw something about Panasonic Plasmas losing their black level over time. Is this a deal breaker?
• Brand: It seems that Samsungs are the current kings of LCD sets. Is this true? If so, what models are the ones to look at? CNET says the UNB8000 and up series is the one to go with.

EDIT: Would it be worth waiting to see what happens with 3D TVs this year?