How can I tell if my tv is giving me the best picture possible?

Question

I have an Elite Pro 940 42 in. tv. It runs at 1080i, and are there some things (settings) that I can change to produce a more vivid picture?

Or is the setting the tv came with the best one?

i is not as good as p...right?

Answer 1

In general, Tvs out of the box come way too bright, since they are targeted for the store shelf.

I would change the picture to "Standard" or something similar - Anything but Vivid.

If you can get a DVD calibration disc (Video essentials or ISO/Monster or for free any DVD with the THX optimizer logo in the back) then you can adjust brightness and contrast to match your equipment.

Most HD stations transmit in 1080i except for ESPN and ABC I think that use 720p. Only Blu-ray players  output 1080p.