I went through the same dilemma. After much thought and comparison I purchased the 50" Pioneer Elite Pro plasma. If I had not purchased the one I did my second choice was the Sharp Aquos 52" LCD (LC52D82U).
What sold me on the plasma was the side by side comparison. There was a clearer picture when there was fast motion and the LCD, at times, showed a flicker in certain scenes. The 2 sets were side by side and using the same feed. I even swapped the feed cables to be sure.
As for burn in I have not experienced any in the 4 months that I have had the TV. I bought as a demo and the set was on display for 2 months (I know the shop owner and how he operates the sets). I was told that the new plasma can get some burn in if left on a static screen for a while but I don't know how long. I have left a movie on pause for 20 minutes and no effect. I was told that the burn in fades away after a few days use.
As for brightness, I have my room blacked out so ambient light is not an issue. In the store however I could not really notice a difference between LCD and plasma. The color, in my opinion , is slightly better on the plasma . They say that the black is better on LCD but the black is getting better on the plasma but it is vendor specific.
All said, it may come down to money. Plasma is slightly more expensive but slightly better (I believe). I would also state that a cheaper plasma mat not perform as good as a better LCD at the same price. I personally liked the Pioneer Elite but if I had not chosen it the Sharp Aquos 1080P (LCD) with 120Hz (not 60Hz) would be my next choice.
Good luck in your search and enjoy!!!
