It is true that non-HDTV signal looks bad in the Toshiba. I purchased a 52HM94 a few months ago. I'm quite happy with the HDTV picture and I would say comparable to the Samsung. I was disappointed though on the quality of non-HDTV signals. So expect a not so good picture quality from your DVD, analog, or any digital signal.
Another thing I found out with Toshiba is that they don't have enough good technicians out there. Plus, customer support is really bad. My Toshiba went berserk after a week I bought it. It was zooming all the signals from the HDMI, component, etc. Hissing sound was coming out of the speakers. Called Toshiba for a warranty service. I waited for about two weeks for an authorize technician to see my TV. He ruled out that it has a light engine problem. Later, I found out from Toshiba that the part is back ordered until end of Feb. of 2005. And they can't do anything about it.
Well, good luck on whatever DLP you choose. I hope I'm not too late to warn you.