Once your display or audio system has been professionally calibrated, the good news is that it doesn’t need constant attention. How often you should recalibrate depends on the type of equipment and whether anything in your setup has changed.
TVs (OLED, LED, Mini-LED)
Modern flat panel TVs are the most stable. OLED panels and LED/Mini-LED displays hold their calibration well over time. For most owners looking for a reasonable level of accuracy, a single calibration will last the life of the TV. For enthusiasts who always want total accuracy, a calibration every 1000 hours or yearly can ensure that and panel drift can be corrected.
Projectors
Projectors are less stable than flat panels, particularly lamp-based models.
- Lamp-based projectors — recalibrate after every lamp replacement (once the new lamp has had 50–100 hours to stabilise). For general users, every 1000 hours or so should suffice. For those looking for total accuracy, every 500 hours may be more appropriate.
- Laser projectors — Laser phosphor degradation is gradual but does occur. For general users, every few thousand hours should suffice. For enthusiasts, every 1000 hours or yearly is recommended.
IMPORTANT – Any projector should be recalibrated if you change the screen, or make significant room modifications.
Audio Systems
Audio calibration and room correction remain valid unless you change speaker positions, add or remove speakers/subwoofers, make significant changes to the room (acoustic treatment, furniture, layout), or change your AV receiver or processor.
If your setup is static, audio calibration can last indefinitely.
Video Processors
madVR Envy and Lumagen Radiance Pro will follow the same recommendations as your display type.
Simple rule for audio: If nothing in your setup or room has changed, your calibration is generally still accurate. If something has changed — equipment, room, firmware — that’s when a recalibration check makes sense.
Frequently Asked Questions
If I increase the size of my screen, should I recalibrate my projector Yes! Any change to your screen, whether that is size or material will heavily effect the projected image.
Q: I’ve replaced my faulty speaker like for like, do I need to recalibrate? The calibration should hold up to a relatively good level, however subtle variations in speakers, of slight changes in positioning can effect the calibration. For ultimate performance, we would recommend at least a verification to make sure the speaker is behaving as expected.
Q: Does a firmware update affect calibration? It can. Major firmware updates that change HDR handling or picture modes may alter calibration. Minor updates rarely cause issues. When in doubt, a quick verification check is worthwhile.
Due a recalibration check? We offer verification visits for existing clients.
Sonyx
Professional video and audio calibration. PVA certified. Trinnov certified. Based in Yorkshire, serving the UK.
Sonyx Audio Visual
Sonyx Audio Visual