Jim Quinn
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 p.1 #1 · Is there a "best" calibrator? | |
Hi,
After plugging my HP LP2475W monitor into my Mac G4 laptop, and realizing that my economy-model Pantone Huey calibrator won't operate in a dual-monitor situation, I'm in the market for a better alternative.
I realize it's possible to buy color management hardware and software that handles profiling for both monitors and printers; the X-rite Colormunki is one such device, as is the Spyder 3 Studio SR kit. But because I want to walk before I run, and because my budget is somewhat limited, I'm tempted to buy the best monitor calibrator I can, at least at first, and rely on the so-called "canned" printer profiles from the paper manufacturers. Later, if I find that my prints need further tweaking, I'd consider adding the gear needed to do printer profiling.
I dropped in at the local Calument store yesterday and talked to a factory rep who was demonstrating Datacolor Spyder products, among others. After I told him about my setup, he suggested that I consider the Spyder III Elite, which he said can handle dual monitors (though I'm not that concerned with the laptop's color accuracy as long as the HP screen is well balanced). He explained that the Spyder III Elite is also included in the Spyder Studio setup, which has other hardware for print profiling.
I'm considering the Spyder III Elite because of reasonably good reviews in this forum and elsewhere online, and because I would be able to expand the system later if I find I need to profile my printer.
But I'm also aware of other products on the market, notably the X-Rite Eye One Display 2 colorimeter. In some online reviews, it has received better reports than the Spyder III, and these days it costs pretty much the same (I've seen princes that range around $195-$210 for either one).
I'd welcome your thoughts on which of these two devices would represent the best performance for the money. And if I'm ignoring other devices with better performance, please point that out, too. I will greatly appreciate your thoughts. Thanks!
Jim Quinn
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