i'm very happy with it, actually. i watch it from 3m away. only downside is that if the transmission isn't very good, it certainly shows up....but if it's good, and it usually is if it's a movie or made in a studio, then it's quite stunning. took a fair bit of setting up...made a difference too.
nothing wrong with the hitachi, and it's cheaper...but if money's no object, just get the LG.
can't say the price...was wholesale...but got it from clive peters.