OK I've had the RE40NZ60RB a few days and here are my initial impressions.
Overall, very pleased. The pictures are VERY bright and vivid and the functionality of the set is very good.
Lots of viewing modes but I'm using primarily using a Sky box (with 16:9 mode on, RGB out via converter box to S-video in on the set, set on 16:9 mode) and it's great. Don't have anything at the moment with component outputs so can't comment on that.
To get the best out of the set you do need to play with the settings a lot. The factory defaults are a little silly and I suspect intended for showroom display.
The screen has more brightness than you need and I hope this doesn't translate into shorter tube/lamp life. It's easily viewable in a bright room and a massive step forward in that respect from my old Sony.
The sharpness settings need a little care as you can start to see some artefacts if it's too high. Can't say I really notice the difference with DRPC or VM but it's a little early yet as I haven't used a full range of content yet (sport/action etc.)
The main criticism I have is that the colours can be over vivid and the picture is very 'warm'. Reds really hit you and are far too strong.
I really don't understand why manufacturers stick to a single 'Colour' control and don't allow the user access to either 'Hue' and 'Saturation' controls or some sort of White Balance control. This is particularly true on a three tube system where you can't expect consistent performance - especially over time. Looking around n the web i note the NTSC version of this set has a 'Tint' control (hardly surprising with NTSC) but why not for PAL? I know the capability's in there but it needs an engineer to access it.
Overall I get the impression the controls have been set to give an impressive spec. whereas I would prefer more control over a usable range.
I currently have the settings at Contrast 85, Brightness 50, Colour 28-33 (which is a little low but it's needed to take the edge off the overbright reds), Sharpness 50.
Don't get me wrong, red issue aside, the set is very good but the price you pay for that is it highlights any variances in scene or studio lighting.
As far as sound goes, it certainly seems to have reasonable power but I haven't really used it as I have a separate 7.1 setup.
PIP works fine and has flexible in settings but it depends how much usage it gets.
Silliest/Most Pointless feature? 'Turbo Picture'. Unless you want ot test your sunglasses or induce a migraine, it's just a waste of time.
Oh, and I agree, the remote sucks, it's some sort of 70's throwback, overlarge, ugly and I suspect of US design.
If anyone wants any more info, I'll do my best to respond.