DVD man,
Granted yes 1080i and 720p will always look better than a 480p, but there is one caveat to that!! If, like 68% of the american population, you own a tube television, 480p is just about the best you can get. (One will not be able to fit over 1 million pixels on a screen that small unless they are willing to forgo the Lexus)
I am an authorized dealer for both Panasonic and Toshiba, i've played both of them and they are amazing (on big screens and tube). No flicker is a great reason to pick up one of these units!! I like the Toshiba better in terms of user friendliness and their superb film-like picture.
DVD man, if you are interested in purchasing a progressive scan DVD player, I would gladly assist you. Email me if interested. Thanks

John