For Xmas, Stacy and I are buying ourselves a Samsung LN-40A650 LCD TV. I wouldn't consider buying before "Black Friday", the day after Thanksgiving. Prices are predicted to start dropping quite a bit then. I'm one of those people that prefer LCDs to Plasmas.
We have an older Sharp in our living room. After looking around, I think that Samsung has passed Sharp by in LCD TVs. I suggest checking out the appropriate Samsung model before buying.
When it comes to price, you can save a bundle ($400-500 or more) by buying online. The local Circuit City is one of those that are closing. I checked out their close out prices. They are still considerably more than the online cost. It's no wonder that many of the TV retail outlets are closing their doors. They just can't compete pricewise. If you are nervous about it needing service, you can buy an extended warranty that includes shipping and still save money.