Calibrating a new 42" LCD screen... [Archive]

04-09-2007, 20:43

I hate fiddling with settings but I feel I need to really.. Is there a definitive DVD or something I can use to get the optimal settings? I found this guide over at CNet, should I just use that? http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-6463_7-5085739-2.html?tag=arrow

LouBarlow

04-09-2007, 20:47

Avia or Digital Video Essentials or if you have a THX optimized disc, you could use that at a push - something like Fight Club, for example.

05-09-2007, 04:38

Forgot about the THX discs.. Cheers Lou..

Tyler Durden

05-09-2007, 08:09

This is a good starting point :-

http://www.lyris-lite.net/quick_and_dirty_tv_setup.html

Jonnof

05-09-2007, 08:55

I found that the settings calibrate differently when using PAL and NTSC sources, so it's worth setting up a different profile for each (if you have a THX thingy on discs from both regions).

Of course, HD must have different criteria altogether - presumably there are dedicated set-up discs/programmes for those?

The Bear

05-09-2007, 14:13

Also check over at AV Forums, they may have a thread with recommended settings for your TV.

MaleStrom

06-09-2007, 09:42

Jonnof

06-09-2007, 09:59

One thing that I didn't realise is that my Philips LCD calibrates per input - ie each input needs to be calibrated. The reason being that processing may differ between sources and cable type.........which I wish was made cleared as I spent ages thinking that my PS3 video quality was bad.

Would recomend Avia.

Yes, that was something that surprised me when I switched from CRT to LCD.
It's just as well really, considering how massively the settings end up varying between the inputs...

MaleStrom

06-09-2007, 10:28

Yes, that was something that surprised me when I switched from CRT to LCD.
It's just as well really, considering how massively the settings end up varying between the inputs...
Yeah, it takes some time sittin g there going through ewach input, but it's amazing what a vast difference it can make.

n00b

06-09-2007, 11:45

This may sound stupid but if you are using a dvd to calibrate, then surely you can only calibrate the inputs with which you use a dvd player? or do you just use your dvd player on all the different inputs one at a time and calibrate each accordingly?

Jonnof

06-09-2007, 12:26

Well yes, of course it depends on the player, but my cheapy Eltax has RGB scart, component and HDMI - I just switched between them and ran the reference patterns each time.

07-09-2007, 20:32

Just a quick thanks for all the suggestions so far.. I've yet to sit down and play yet but I think I'll tinker with Tyler's quick guide first.. I'll post back once I've had a bash.

I'm really good with audio EQ's etc but picture settings are that bit more invloved imo.

The Bear

07-09-2007, 22:34

Out of interest which make/model is it?

07-09-2007, 22:50

It's the Acer 42" in the bargain forum.. It's pretty good suprisingly although comparisons are a bit thin for me.

I'm only using a Philips DVD, SKY SD and that's kind of it for now...

I suppose I could edit the thread title because all of the info so far is non-tv specific?

09-09-2007, 12:22

searla

10-09-2007, 07:51

DM - If you get a chance and don't mind, can you post what settings you finished with? I've just got one of these Acer's too and am having all kinds of bother getting a good picture?? Any advice on the settings would be appreciated.??

The Bear

10-09-2007, 09:57

OK, all done using the quick/dirty method from Tyler D.. Looks miles better.. Also cheers for the tip about settings for each input.. I just copied over most of the DVD settings but changed the colour slighlt down for Sky SD.
SD inputs usually benefit from some kind of noise reduction if you have any available in your settings/features.

10-09-2007, 10:45

Yeah I have, will play with that later!

DM - If you get a chance and don't mind, can you post what settings you finished with? I've just got one of these Acer's too and am having all kinds of bother getting a good picture?? Any advice on the settings would be appreciated.??

What's your source(s)?

searla

10-09-2007, 10:48

Just a SD Sky+ Box at the minute:thumbs:

12-09-2007, 14:18

OK, may not be to your tastes, let me know..

Sky box set to
RGB and contrast = low

TV
Brightness=32
Contrast=60
Colour=57
Sharpness=0
Noise Reduction=off
Colour Temperature=Standard

I noticed changing my scart lead made a difference as my old Ixos isn't long enough so I tried 3 different budget ones kicking around the house and eventually found a half decent one.. May see if I can trade my Ixos for a longer lead..

searla

12-09-2007, 15:47

Thanks for that DM - i'll give them settings a go tonight:thumbs:

13-09-2007, 07:33

Changed sky contrast to medium as movies seemed a bit too dark...

19-09-2007, 18:41

How are you getting on Searla? I saw you post over at avforums as well. Did you get it sorted?

searla

19-09-2007, 21:33

Hello mate, after a bit of fiddling and with your help:thumbs: got a set-up i'm happy with:) Got a Thor SCART cable from B&Q for a tenner, and that helped a little.

To be honest, I'm really impressed with it, especially for £500.

I think you mentioned about moving furniture to get a suitable distance away from the TV for optimal viewing - the other half was a bit miffed that I blew £500 on "Another tele" and decided to completely change the front room while she was out shopping - these women just don't understand the importance of the best picture quailty possible...;)