Q: Panasonic has said it is going to stop manufacturing plasma TVs. What do you recommend instead?

A: This is just a rumor started by a Nikkei business report, and the rumor spread to a few other sources. Panasonic still makes plasma televisions and has no current plans to leave the market. I have verified it personally with Panasonic's PR personnel, and because of the rumor Panasonic's president in Japan recently released statements backing up the television business.

What's more, Panasonic recently announced a brand-new line of plasma televisions. They are still my top TV recommendation. For those who want the very best, a new ZT series will be available with ultra-premium picture quality. The ZT televisions will sell at a noticeably higher price than the ST series, which are likely to remain the sweet spot for those who want spectacular picture quality at an affordable price.

Even if the rumor were true, it would be no reason to avoid buying a plasma set. If anything, it is more of a reason to buy a plasma TV as it could be your last chance to own superior plasma technology. (Other manufacturers make plasma TVs, though Panasonic has become almost synonymous with plasma.) Once you have it the television will last a very long time. If you watch eight hours per day, a 1080p Panasonic plasma will go for 30 years before it is at half-brightness.

Though LCD and LED-LCD sets have some advantages, the commonly held viewpoint is that plasma offers the very best picture quality available. Since it typically costs less than comparable LED-LCD sets, plasma is a rare opportunity to own the best while spending less. It is usually retailers who recommend LCD and LED-LCD over plasma. They do this for reasons such as higher prices and higher profit margins, because they do not carry any brands that manufacture plasma, and because of the low-paid, nonexpert sales help in big-box stores.

SoundWorks Oontz

Q: I am intrigued by the Cambridge SoundWorks Oontz. Can I use it in conjunction with my Toshiba laptop? I have no idea if it has Bluetooth not. I have a McIntosh system into which I plug my iPhone but the speakers are too far away from the computer.

A: You can use the McIntosh stereo with your laptop by purchasing a $99 Apple AirPort Express. Airport Express will stream music from your computer to your stereo and you can use Apple's free Remote app to control everything from your iPhone.

If your laptop does not have Bluetooth you can buy a USB Bluetooth adapter for under $20. For the ultimate in simplicity just plug the Oontz into the laptop's headphone port using the supplied miniplug stereo cable. You can connect any portable speakers this way.

Send questions to donlindich@gmail.com. Get more recommendations and read past columns at www.soundadviceblog.com.