I had done this research around a couple of years back. Wanted to buy a 29inch CRT set and there were three models at that time, Sony (Around 39K), Philips(Around 37K) and Samsung (30K). The Sammie had a thinner profile as compared to the rest. However picturewise the Samsung was beaten hollow by the Philips and Sony.
Atthat time, I had camped for close to an hour in Spencer plaza (forget the electronic store but the biggest there in the ground floor) and checked out a few DVDs on my DVD player using component on all three.
The Samsung appeared to lack in colour and blacks. Between Philips and Sony there was a subtle difference. Both reproduced the colour tones differently. My wife liked the Sony's reproduction of colour while I preferred the Philips. Even in image clarity, philips was sharper and a hint of grain while the Sony was softer and less grainy (compared to the Philips). I could make this out while watching cable through sat.
I held off buying the crt set finally though for altogether different reasons but had made up my mind to go for the Philips.
Later I got myself an LCD but while watching cable, I feel CRTs better LCDs. However with DVDs and HDTV nothing beats the smoothness of the LCD. I don't watch too much action but using my HTPC (8800 GTS card), the movies are brilliant as compared to my el cheapo dvdp.
Philips servicing I am not sure but have heard a lot of hearsay. I have not come across an actual dissatisfied customer who had a bad experience but Philips seems to have this reputation of having bad after sales support.