Plasma TV Prices Tumble

The prices of plasma TVs are becoming a boon to shoppers but are creating a minor crisis for their designers, a new collection of NPD data shows. While the number of sets sold in February jumped 30 percent compared to a year ago, the average price of the system itself dropped 35 percent to $1,688 -- actually representing a revenue drop for many of the companies involved, the research group says. While budget companies such as Vizio rely on low-cost plasmas, NPD's Ross Rubin suggests the decrease is prompting more expensive brands to add 1080p resolution, more HDMI connections, and networking.

Evidence has surfaced of plasma makers already responding to the issue, such as today's introduction of a 42-inch Panasonic model. [via Crave]

By Electronista Staff