Aren't those artifacts supposed to disappear in hi-def plasma and lcds?
They are supposed to, IF the store was using DVI/HDMI connections & players for hi-res video (720p to 1080i). But I noticed that most stores selling PDPs & LCDs use ordinary progressive scan players and cheap component connections which would show 480i or 480p on a high resolution display. So,
I think that may be why you would notice jagged edges. Plus the fact that we usually view TVs up close (2-5 ft) in stores instead of the usual recommended distances(9-12 ft).
The only affordable hi-res dvd player we have locally is the Samsung HiDef players, and it would be a shame if the dealers were selling a different brand PDP and using a Samsung Hi def player (hypothetical situation). Its like advertising for Samsung for free.
Last month, I saw a new model toshiba 60" TV (DLP TV size but its LCD) cleverly using a generic GIEC 1080i DVD player to display really good hi resolution video thru component . This way it doesnt advertise for any competing brand and the video is really hi res.