Monitor calibration?

[dumpy]

So I've decided to purchase a monitor calibration software/hardware bundle. As usual before purchases I browsed the review section on here and didn't find very much info (that part is unusual). I'm quite shocked at the lack of reviews for such an important piece of the puzzle (I know, I know, I'll write one on the one I end up with).

I'm a Windows guy (linux too, but not that big of a concern in this regard, however if compatible that is a plus ), would like to use it on more than one monitor (probably 3 between 2 PCs), LCD,CRT and laptop displays. I am looking to spend under $250.



Does anyone have any recommendations/comments/concerns?

[readingr]

Look at the eyeone from Gretagmaceth - its a lovely piece of kit and the one I use.

Very simple, copes with multiple monitors and can be used on laptops.

Roger

[dumpy]

Does anyone have any experience with this one??

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...on_System.html

The price can't be beat, but that also makes me a bit nervous...

[Medley]

I use Spyder, and have for quite some time. I think you'll want to look at Spyder2Suite though. If I remember correctly, Express doesn't have multi-monitor capability. I started with the Suite, and eventually moved up to Pro.

Neither Express nor Suite make adjustments for ambient lighting. If you plan on doing your color correction under consistent lighting conditions, this isn't that big a deal. It was only when I started using my laptop as a field notebook that I switched up to Pro to get a handle on ambient conditions.

My advice would be to spend the extra $20.00 or so to get Spder2Suite, but for the average hobbyist, Spyder2Pro is overkill.

As to arguing wether Colorvision (Spyder) or GretagMacbeth (Eyeone) is better, that's a little like arguing if Canon or Nikon is better. Both products get the job done, and the best one is the one that's easiest and most comfortable to use.

- Joe U.

[dumpy]

So the express doesn't have multiple monitor support, I can deal with that, but there is something I don't understand.

Can I calibrate my monitor on my laptop and then use the same set up on my desktop? In other words, does any hardware need to stay on the PC? Or is it a set it and forget (maybe redoing it every 2 weeks or so) type of scenario?

[SmartWombat]

Or is it a set it and forget (maybe redoing it every 2 weeks or so)

Exactly, I recalibrate every 4 weeks.

[Medley]

You'll still have to have the software installed on both computers. As to how often to recalibrate, that's up to you. However, the software will ask you how often to recalibrate, and remind you when that interval arrives. While this is a nice feature, setting it to a short interval makes the reminders a nagging frustration.

Exactly, I recalibrate every 4 weeks.

Ditto.

- Joe U.