NEC 19IN/18.0V 24MM 1920X1440 FP955 MULTISYNC TOTALLY FLAT CR (NEC-FP955)

WHAT ELSE: You can purchase the FP955 packaged with a hardware color-calibrator, called SpectraView, for $1019. You cannot buy the calibrator separately.

Overall, we found that the calibrator functioned well, making it an ideal solution for professional graphics work, in which consistent color reproduction is a must. However, we ran into a glitch when the software that it works with couldn't immediately locate the USB-connected circular sensor that sticks to the screen by suction. The SpectraView documentation, while extensive, provides no troubleshooting tips. We reinstalled the software several times, after which it finally worked.

A wizard takes you through the process of calibrating the monitor. The sensor gauges the level of ambient light in the room, and the software optimizes the monitor's colors accordingly.

Although the SpectraView would be a great tool for a graphic design firm, you must buy one per monitor, because NEC-Mitsubishi sells only one license per product. Therefore, if you wanted to outfit your office with ten displays that all use the SpectraView calibrator, you'd have to spend upwards of $10,000--and that would certainly be difficult for a small office on a budget.

The FP955's on-screen display is managed by seven buttons on the front of the bezel, which can be slightly confusing at first. A quick perusal of the manual, which explains how to make changes and provides definitions of each control, makes the process easier. Advanced controls include those for moiré and convergence.

UPSHOT: The FP955 has many assets and fairly strong image quality, though somewhat uneven results with graphics. Its hardware color-calibrator will appeal to graphics professionals, but only those who are willing to put down a lot of cash.