Is an HDMI Input necessary or are the component inputs all most users will need for basic HDTV viewing and DVD player

I am pretty much decided to buy this Panasonic monitor (TH-50PH9UK 50") but understand that it has limited inputs including no HDMI inputs. For very basic operation and setup is this an important drawback ? What kind of a stand will I need to buy as it doesn't come with one of these either. My plans for this monitor are hooking it up to a cable HD receiver, powering 3 JBL fronts and a pair of Mirage Omnicam 6" rear speakers mounted in ceiling with a Kenwood 80W X 5 VR-405 A/V surround receiver. I am a complete novice and very, very confused but doing a lot of reading. Any help would be very much appreciated.

In addition you might want to note that while HDMI inputs are not normally included, you can attach a digital input module to the TV so if you wanted to add HDMI or DVI inputs later. The module is about $150.

That way if you do get equipment with an HDMI output you can still take advantage of the benefits of HDMI with your monitor.

My two cents on HDMI: it's great if you can get it, but Redpaw and Jonathan got it right: not needed to get an HD Signal. Most new TVs and components have HDMI, but that's a relatively new thing.