How often should you calibrate an HD CRT?

[Gage33]

I am thinking of getting my 34XS955 calibrated but I was wondering how long the calibration is usually good for?

[dsanbo]

[QUOTE=Gage33]I am thinking of getting my 34XS955 calibrated but I was wondering how long the calibration is usually good for?[/QUOTE]
Gage33.....
Depending on whom you ask, you're apt to get a variety of answers..... ;)
IMHO, it depends on how much usage your set gets. For many, an annual calibration is sufficient. For others (myself included) a full calibration twice a year works well. Still others will say quarterly or even monthly "refreshes" are in order. Some CRTs tend to "age" more gracefully and don't tend to need as much "hands-on" attention.
Having had my 2 Samsungs for a short period (a 26" widescreen for a bit over a year and a 27" SlimFit for just 2 months) I'm not in a position to say how often these "need" calibration; I've done one complete Avia calibration on each since December......Both look GREAT!! :D
This is truly a case of YMMV.......Good luck!

[Gage33]

I am talking a full pay someone ISF calibration. I can't imaging paying $300 every year for calibration. Can I get it ISF calibrated by someone and do it myself with Avia in the future to maintain it?

[Q of BanditZ]

[QUOTE=Gage33]I am talking a full pay someone ISF calibration. I can't imaging paying $300 every year for calibration. Can I get it ISF calibrated by someone and do it myself with Avia in the future to maintain it?[/QUOTE]


Almost assuredly. ;)

One ISF job per TV is probably going to be most people's limits.

[Gage33]

So if I get it ISF calibrated, then it won't hurt to invest in Avia just to do a check up on my contrast settings, etc.. ?

[dsanbo]

[QUOTE=Gage33]So if I get it ISF calibrated, then it won't hurt to invest in Avia just to do a check up on my contrast settings, etc.. ?[/QUOTE]
Absolutely!! :D I wasn't aware you were referring to a full ISF calibration up front. One of those with an occasional "touch-up" with Avia should keep you....and your set.....very happy!!

[SurfingMatt27]

As long as the color and contrast are properly adjusted nothing should drift at all, it's a set it and forget it routine;)

Typically for a CRT display contrast should be in the middle and color should be lowered from the middle setting, You would be surprised how much clearer and sharper the picture looks with them two settings lowered.

[Spikem]

For the AVIA calibration, is there a min-document that explains the "how to" of it?

I just bought my first HDTV 2 days ago (a Sony KV34HS420) and am very excited about it and would like to get the best picture I can without spending much more (between the TV and various excessories, I've spent about $1500).

Any information would really be greatly appreciated!

[SurfingMatt27]

Read this thread, it gives you a quick run down on the service menu items to get the most from your sony set.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=582269

[xt14]

speaking of which, is there anyone in ohio that is interested in getting a calibration anytime soon. There is a $50 discount if you sign up for two at the same time, which would make it $230. Check out hdtvbychadb.com for info. Let me know