Conventional wisdom has it that plasma is the less popular form of flat-panel TV. But plasma is rebounding, according to DisplaySearch.

David Hsieh, VP of DisplaySearch in China, expects shipments of LCD panels to grow in September and October, then slow from November to the end of the holiday season. Meanwhile, shipments of plasma panels by Samsung and LG are reaching all-time highs.

Prices of both plasma and LCD panels are falling. However, plasmas are by far the better deal. Holiday price points are expected to be $699-799 for a 42-inch HD plasma, $999 for 50 inches, and $1499-1599 for 50-inch 1080p.

And the cratering economy is likely to drive consumers--at least those with money to spend--toward lower-priced options. Fasten your seatbelts. This holiday season may be a wild ride. See story in Channel News.