Panasonic USA appears to be taking orders for the world's largest plasma TV set - a 103in model - even though delivery won't be until some time next year.

Just in case you hadn't realised, 103in is big. The set is "bigger than a double-sized mattress", according to Reuters, and "almost as heavy as an upright piano"! Dimensions are 2.4 x 1.4 metres and weight 215 kg.

The set is made by Panasonic's parent Matsushita and had a public showing in prototype form at this year's CES and at CeBIT. There are no clues as to the price - but if you need to know, you almost certainly can't afford one. However, the current world record holder, also from Matsushita but a mere 65-incher, sells in Japan for the equivalent of about US$7,500.

Wondering when Panasonic UK will be taking orders and at what price? Us, too, and when the company gets back with answers, we'll let you know.

While you wait, you may feel the urge to discuss your forthcoming purchase in the HEXUS.community.

HEXUS.links

HEXUS.community - discussion thread about this news brief
HEXUS - all CES 2006 coverage
HEXUS - all CeBIT coverage
Reuters - Matsushita to sell record 103-inch plasma TVs
Newlaunches - Panasonic 103 inch Plasma goes on sale today
Panasonic USA - home page