Advice Requested for TV Picture

[Thunderball]

Ok, here's my problem.
I just purchased a 32" Sony VVEga television (KV32FS12). The factory settings all seemed way to bright so I started changing them all around.
I have my "MOVIE" mode set to THX's Optimode. My question is, since I am now using component cables, should I invest some money into a better disc(Avia or Silver!)? Or is the THX optimode decent enough?
Also, cable TV looks pretty rough, anybody want to share settings so i can improve cable?
Finally, is switchin between all the picture modes bad for the TV?
Thanks in advance for the help.

[DigIt]

IMO, Avia or Video Essentials would be a great improvement over THX optimode.
Buying these discs might also educate you a little so that you could improve the cable image as well, but as a general rule, I think cable looks better if it is slightly cooler and slightly brighter than reference. Also, turning down the sharpness can make flaws less noticeable.
Switching between picture modes should not put any significant stress on your TV.

[Cardiff Giant]

also be sure to turn off Velocity Modulation.

[Thunderball]

I guess I'll invest in Avia then. Hmm that $40 is gonna be hard to swallow, but since I'll be home all next week recouping after oral surgery, I guess I won't need money anyway. :)
:johnwoo: Velocity Modulation

[Cardiff Giant]

Originally posted by Thunderball
I guess I'll invest in Avia then. Hmm that $40 is gonna be hard to swallow, but since I'll be home all next week recouping after oral surgery, I guess I won't need money anyway. :)
:johnwoo: Velocity Modulation

Check on half.com Alpha DVD(the company that makes Avia) sells brand new shrink wrapped copies for 25 bucks. I hadn't boughten from half.com before so I used a $5 off coupon and got Avia shipped for $22. It was brand new as advertised and included the three color filters. Great service. Check there before you spend the extra $$$$.