i was told 720p would suck as a 42 inch gaming monitor, but what about 1080i and 1080p? would those be ok for gaming?
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yes 720p is not ideal when using larger TVs (32" and above) 1080p is what you want when using a HDTV as a monitor.

Do you have a certain brand in mind?
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this one

http://www.ecost.com/Detail.aspx?edp=40437178

yes, i know its a refurb.

also, i wouldnt have to upgrade my 8800gt in sli, since its not the same resolution as a monitor of the same size, yeah?
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i dunno. that seems kinda pricey for a no name refurb.
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$899 for a 47 inch Westinghouse. is there a big 1080p hdtv that i can get for less?
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Well, I would think if you want to use a HDTV as a monitor you would want kinda on the smaller side 32"-37" maybe to get a better density of pixels.
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yea 47 seems excessive to use as a 24/7 monitor
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47" is too big for a monitor. I have a 37" and I think that 32" may be the sweet spot, 37" is pushing it, 42" is too big, and 47" is WAY too big.

There's no such thing as a 1080i LCD. It's really annoying that they try and muddy the waters by touting LCDs as 1080i, all it means is that they'll accept 1080i and convert it to their native res (720p, 768p, whatever).

For gaming a 720p monitor probably wouldn't actually be that bad, it's surfing and email and anything with text that it would suck for.
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I'm using a 42" 1080p plasma as my PC and TV.
Cant say how good it is enough, awesome experience :)

If you can sit 4 feet plus from the screen you will be more than happy.
Some can use 42" at 3ft, you will find what suits you best.
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