I am in the same boat - looking for either a 50" or 57" and debating which brand. I am no expert, but have been researching for a couple of months. The main differences on the Hitachi are the cabinet and a built in digital receiver. The following link from Hitachi covers the differences...
After struggling for several months between Sony, Toshiba and Hitachi, I think I have finally decided on the Hitachi swx20b (still debating 51" or 57"). Does anyone know what the 2003 models will offer and when they will hit stores? Should I wait? Does anyone want to talk me out of the Hitachi...