The S2 is Panasonic's entry-level 2010 Plasma model. It doesn't have the features (such as THX certification, Netflix, etc) of the more expensive models but I did not require, or want, those features. I enjoy the tv and have no problems with image quality or black levels. With that said, I recommend using the 'cinema' mode for the best image quality/colors. Shipping was okay for the price. It took about a month from order for the tv to arrive at my condo. The delivery men did unwrap the tv from the box and remove the packaging from my condo which was a plus I did not expect (I only thought they would drop it off infront of the building).