Since high-definition technology is relatively new, not everyone knows how to get the best performance from their new displays and disc players. Connectivity issues and different living environments play a part in picture quality but the most important first step is setting up your system properly.
That’s where the latest calibration disc, which includes high-definition adjustments, from Digital Video Essentials comes in. It’s actually based on the original standard-definition disc but also features extra tools for HD-DVD players – although, at least to begin with, you have to run it as a standard DVD.
There is a tacky American narrative and dodgy music soundtrack but the disc offers some useful high-definition calibrations for both audio and video settings. You can calibrate various picture elements including advanced adjustments such as colour geometry, MPEG encoding and video processing.
It uses a series of test screens that help you fine tune images while there are also 5.1 and 6.1 test signals for configuring surround sound systems. You can switch between 1080p and 720p modes depending on your display’s compatibility with practically all the information you need to set up your HDTV correctly.
The Digital Video Essentials HD-DVD calibration disc is available now for around £13.99
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