CRT RPTVs...really, how are they?

[Jerm]

I am looking to finally purchase a 16:9 TV in the next couple of months. The only drawback is that I have to save my part-time CC paychecks to finance it, and I don't want to work for much longer.
So, every night I'm at work, I am basically window shopping...if the customer is checking out a set, so am I.
I really like the Sony Grand WEGA, but they cost so much. I mean I can get a larger CRT RPTV for half the price. But I know that these are subject to burn-in, but how often? How bad? How can it be avoided?
I also like the 34" Sony tube, but let's face it, if you have it set on 4:3 it's no bigger that a 27" set. And those also cost quite a bit, and they weigh a ton. If I decide to move it, I'll need to find some guys to help, my wife won't be able to do it.
So, what do you recommend? I'm looking to stay under 50", since I have a small living room. How's Panasonic? How does it compare to Sony? I've only owned 2 TVs in my life, my 20" Magnavox (that I bought off a friend years ago) which is due to be replaced very soon, and my 27" Trinitron that I bought about 12 years ago.

***EDIT***
I put this in the wrong part of Hardware...could a mod move it?

[snipsnapsappy]

Remember that CRT actually produce a more filmlike picture than LCD, plasma, or even DLP. SO CRT can actually produce the best picture, it just is more inconvenient. It also does not have the sexy flat screen qualities.

So if a CRT projection is OK in your room, that may be the way to go for you.

[tomdkat]

Originally Posted by Jerm

***EDIT***
I put this in the wrong part of Hardware...could a mod move it?

Will do...

EDIT: Have you looked into the Panasonic Tau CT-34WX53 or the Panasonic PT-47WX53 or the Panasonic PT-47WXD63 ?

The Toshiba 46HX83 might be another set to check out.

Of the above sets, the Panasonic PT-47WX53 looks like the best deal, cost wise.

Peace...