As usual, to get a handle on what you are adjusting, adjust your sharpness to both ends of the spectrum. Pay close attention to the edges of objects in your picture. When sharpness is cranked all the way up, you start to see distortion at the edges of your images. Bring your level back down to the point where those hard edges disappear, and you are left with soft but distinct edges.

Sharpness is a little tricky to set using your own DVD. However, for an LCD or DLP projector, it is very easy to set using special calibration software.

All Done?

Once you have completed the process, you should find some improvement in your image. But this was just a fast and easy guide for calibrating video. Some projectors have settings for color temperature as well. These are the manufacturers' fast and easy settings, and they work fairly well. Either way, it is a great start toward getting better, more life-like images.

When it comes down to it, it is your video. If you want your grass looking blue and sharp distorted edges, it's your business. But, if you truly want to see what the creators of the film had intended, you should seriously consider purchasing calibration software.

Video Calibration Software

If you have tried to eye up your video and you find you have to keep doing it for each new DVD you watch, you might be ready for what the professionals use. See our full selection of affordable video calibration software.

What these CDs provide are perfect examples of contrast, color bars, and detailed images. These examples, including color bars and other useful visuals, make it much easier and more accurate than using a DVD of your own to calibrate. As a bonus, you may also get tips on getting the best sound, lighting, and design of your home theater.