kat -

I don't have much experience with flat panels, but our latest new computer - from a builder that I think has an exceptional reputation for using "best parts" - came with a Samsung Syncmaster 940BX.

When the monitor on my older setup died, I checked the specs on comparable competitive monitors, and found that this one did offer a couple of better numbers at very competitive pricing, so we now have two alike.

Just "buying a Samsung," however is not to be recommended. It's very important to evaluate the individual model (the 940BX in this case). This model is not commonly available at retail outlets, so you'd have to "web order" it. You also need to look at whether the details of the specifications are appropriate for your use.

A particular feature of this model was it's very high brightness/contrast ratios, about 30% higher than for closely comparable models. That was significant to me, but might not be too important to you.

John