SEATTLE -- When you go to the store to look at the new TVs, you see a picture that jumps off the screen. That's because these sets are on what's called "vivid" or store mode.

"(It) raises the contrast all the way up and gets the picture bright and colorful as possible," said Monir Bahhage with Magnolia Video.

He says that's not the look you want when you get the TV home, where the lighting is usually warmer than you'll find at the big box stores.

"When your first take the TV out of the box and turn it on, it is set in vivid mode or dynamic mode," Bahhage said.

Most manufacturers give you a number of pre-determined settings -- such as standard, cinema or games. You can also choose custom to make your own adjustments.

"Now you have the ability to ratchet back the contrast so things are not too white, the colors are not too neon-like and more realistic," he said.

The amount of light in the room also affects the picture quality. Generally, the darker the room is the better the picture. So if you adjusted the set during the day, in a bright room, you'll probably want a second setting at night.

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