I wouldn't say Higher quality picture but for sure they rule in the Better blacks department. LCD technology have come a long way and the PQ on both technologies are pretty much similar except the blacks. Plasmas still hold Superior depth in the blacks but LCD is quickly catching up.
As for Brands of Plasmas, if Pioneer was still in the game I'd recommend their Kuro line but since then it's long gone and they sold their stuff to Panasonic. Although you can still get a 60inch Kuro set at some stores like Futureshop. Panasonic has great PQ for Plasmas at the moment and I'm just waiting for them to release their super black plasmas. Samsungs aren't bad either, you can check them out too!
One thing I really recommend you doing after you get a TV is that you get it Calibrated! Trust me, the picture quality is noticeable. Since you said you'll have it for 10 years you might as well get the best picture possible.
For more information on Plasmas you can actually visit
www.avsforum.com They have awesome info their and you can read on what people have to say about each particular model and what settings they set their TV to. Don't get too carried away though
EDIT: Okay, one more thing. If you do get a TV at Futureshop, don't get their Calibration services. I'm not sure how good they are.