Since you mentioned the Sharp Elite, I wonder if the Sharp'a black level has managed to exceed that of Pioneer's Elite/Kuro. Below is the last paragraph of a HTM review of the $3,700 65" Panny VT model. Note that he did mention the Pioneer Elite's black level.
"Comparisons and Conclusions
Why do we so often insist on comparing a set under review to an HDTV you can no longer buy? Because in the three years since the Pioneer Kuro departed the HDTV scene, there has not yet been another set that can equal or better it in all respects, most particularly in black level. Bringing that up may frustrate the reader, though it reminds manufacturers that they still have a way to go.
But with the Panasonic TC-P65VT50, the distance isn’t far. And consider the ways in which Panasonic has moved beyond its now departed competitor: 3D capability, less noise at the extreme bottom end of the brightness range, far more flexible setup controls, Internet features, and a larger maximum size (even apart from Panasonic’s super-size-me sets—those ranging from 85 inches to the company’s custom, “put the set on a slab and build the house around it” and “your electric bill will necessarily skyrocket,” 150-inch monster).
Most significantly, you can purchase the TC-P65VT50 for the family room and also bring home the smaller, 55-inch TC-P55VT50 for the bedroom, for the $7,000 price once demanded for the best 60-inch Kuro—with $800 change in the bargain. The value and performance offered by the Panasonic VT50 series is truly remarkable."
Interestly they still seem to use the Pioneer Kuro as their reference set.
