What I'd like to know is...

HDTVbyChadB

Q: Do you calibrate HDR and Dolby Vision?

A: Yes. HDR10 will be calibrated on all compatible displays. Dolby Vision mode can also be calibrated on Vizios, and recent LG and Sony OLEDs. HDR10 and DV will be calibrated as much as possible with your display in every ISF calibration. 

Q: What do I need to do to prepare?

A: For front projectors the room must be TOTALLY DARK. For flat panels, just pull the shades or curtains and do what can be reasonably be done to darken the room. Please have the display warmed up for at least a half hour before the appointment time. For ceiling mounted projectors, please have a step stool or ladder ready as needed to access the projector. Please have the original remotes and 3D glasses ready if needed, and a USB memory stick or SD card for me to put your calibration reports on.

Q: Do you mind if I watch?

A: It depends on the situation. For complex or less routine video calibrations and all audio calibrations, feeling watched just adds to the stress level and I will do my best work if left to myself. However, even in these situations I will be glad to keep you posted at regular intervals.

Q: Do you calibrate 3D?

A: Yes, a 3D capable pattern generator is used to calibrate 3D mode, and it's included in the ISF calibration if desired.

Q: I think I'm interested in a calibration.  How does this whole process work?

A: The first step would be to fill out the short contact form.  Your should receive a prompt response from scheduler Darrell B, and he will work with you to schedule an appointment.  It is essential to fill out the contact form to get the scheduling process started.  A reminder will be sent out a day before the appointment, and then Chad B will arrive at your house to calibrate your TV.

Q: What areas do you cover? 

A: HDTV by Chad B is based in Ohio, and most of the midwest and eastern regions of the United States are serviced with regular road trips from Ohio to Florida, DC, Texas, Virginia, New York, Michigan, Chicago, and most areas in between and close by.   Tours are scheduled multiple times a year; so if you live in, around, or between any of these areas, you can get a calibration scheduled.  Scheduling begins as demand builds in a given region, and demand is based on contact form submissions.  Flights anywhere else in the United States are possible.  Please see the tours page for a primary coverage area map.
 
Q: Which video calibration service should I choose: ISF Calibration or Express Plus?

A: Chad B's ISF Calibration is the most thorough, precise calibration service possible for your equipment.  It doesn't matter how long it takes or how complex your system or display is, or even if you use an external video processor.  The Express Plus was created as a faster, less expensive alternative for either budget displays or displays with less detailed calibration adjustments.  If you do not require separate Day, Night, and 3D calibrations, your display lacks multipoint white balance or CMS controls, and distractions are kept to a minimum, there's a good chance it can be calibrated in about 90 minutes or less.  In those instances, the Express Plus can give outstanding results with less time and expense.  If you are unsure, feel free to inquire about the best choice for your display. 

Q: Will Chad B or someone else be doing my calibration?

A: Your calibration will be done by Chad B. 

Q: What is the final cost?

A: There are no hidden charges or fees; all prices listed on this site are real, out the door amounts.
 
Q: I'd rather just use your settings.  Where can I find them?

A: For the most detailed answer, please see this post on AVS Forum.  HDTV by Chad B doesn't publish or share settings, mainly because each display needs it's own individual calibration.
 
Q: Do you calibrate displays that use older technologies, like CRT projectors?  What about rear projection TVs?

A: I can; however, as these and other legacy devices age, many service related issues can occur such as bad solder joints, bad capacitors, etc.  These issues are becoming more and more frequent with CRT based displays, and since HDTV by Chad B is not equipped to make repairs, those issues can make calibration impossible.  As a result, CRT front and rear projector calibration will be considered on a case by case basis, but extra expenses may occur if there is a service issue that makes calibration impossible or much more difficult.  A calibration should not be requested on any dated equipment where there is a question about faulty or worn equipment.  

Q: I'm getting into DIY calibration.  Can I hire you to come profile my meter to my displays?

A: Yes.  The Jeti 1211 spectro used by Chad B is an extremely sensitive and precise reference meter.  It can be used to make a profile for your meter on your individual displays.  Time required would be similar to an Express Plus calibration.

Q: Does my display need to be broken in?  If so, how long and with what?

A: It's generally believed that OLED displays benefit from about 300 hours of operation, with multiple on/off cycles, for professional calibration to be more effective in the long term.  It is also beneficial to break in front projector lamps for about 100 hours.  For LED LCDs, conventional break in is generally not needed; just watch it a minimum of 5 hours to make sure it's a "keeper."  Generally, there is no benefit from using special slides or other specialized content for break in of currently produced displays.

Q: How long does a video calibration take?

A: ISF calibration on most flat panels will take 3 to 5 hours, and most front projectors need about 4 to 7 hours.  CRT projectors take all day.  The Express Plus calibration has a time goal of 1.5 - 2 hours. 

Q: Do I need to wait until I get my new Blu Ray player or cable box before I schedule a calibration?

A: It wouldn't hurt for peace of mind, but it's usually not necessary.  All Blu Ray players I've come across (with the exception of some older LGs) are accurate enough with their HDMI outputs at default positions (not in any preset picture modes except normal or default) that they match the output of my pattern generator.  When I use my generator to calibrate your TV, it will be ready for your Blu Ray player or source component. 
 
Q: Is it OK to route all my sources through my receiver and into one input on the TV?

A: Usually, but in rare instances one source may have an inaccurate output and no picture adjustments to correct it with. Also, if you are routing S-Video or composite into your receiver and having it transcode to HDMI, there may be some mismatch on that source. In either of these cases it would be possible but not ideal to do so.