I'm attaching a link to Steve Withers' excellent recent article on this subject. The difference between a calibrated TV, a TV that has just had basic adjustments made from a set up disc, and a completely uncalibrated TV are, in the vast majority of cases, IMO, clear to see.

The vast majority of people who have their TVs calibrated find that the extra cost - in buying DIY equipment or hiring a pro - was worth it as they are delighted with the results. Pros are likely to use more expensive/accurate gear and have the experience to get the best results. You can certainly buy this equipment and do it yourself, although many people prefer to hire a pro calibrator like myself. All patterns are from the AVS HD 709 calibration package, which can be downloaded in full here. For each one, we include a test pattern that will help you find the best setting. Id like to know if I can just download one of these calibration discs and play it from my computer - hdmi - tv. If you’re interested in learning how to make basic adjustments to a TV’s picture, this guide will help to calibrate the essential settings on a TV. The only way you can make accurate adjustments so that your TV is calibrated to this standard is by using a meter and some software. dtm252535 wrote: Id like to avoid having to purchase any calibration cds, or burn one. This presently means to Rec709, which is what's on your Blu-ray etc.

However, calibration actually means to adjust to a set standard. Check out AVF's Picture Perfect thread for more detail on good starter settings for your TV in this respect. If you do this in combination with selecting the most accurate picture mode then you will have made a good difference to the picture already. With a set up disc you can set brightness, contrast, sharpness, colour and tint - the latter two quite subjectively as you need the right kind of coloured lenses to look through or a blue only mode on your TV. Using a set up disc like AVSHD709 is a good idea. Value Electronics in Scarsdale, NY is a reliable audiovisual retail company that offers superior products and services.

Avs free tv calibration disc