Calibration question

I think (rather, I know) I need to calibrate my monitor and was looking at the spyder 2 or 3. Please forgive my ignorance, but is this a "one time" use item? As in, plug it in, calibrate, and then you have no more use for it? I'm looking at the price and it's kinda hard to swallow if that's the case. Can you buy them used or even rent?

Thanks!

daystar wrote in post #8492619
I think (rather, I know) I need to calibrate my monitor and was looking at the spyder 2 or 3. Please forgive my ignorance, but is this a "one time" use item? As in, plug it in, calibrate, and then you have no more use for it? I'm looking at the price and it's kinda hard to swallow if that's the case. Can you buy them used or even rent?

Thanks!

Ideally, you recalibrate every few weeks, so it's not a one time thing. And if you ever get other monitors, you need to calibrate those too.

That said, you can find plenty of used ones around, check the marketplace.

Monitor settings tend to "drift" over time, CRTs more than LCDs. Most people recalibrate every 2-4 weeks. So to answer your question... no, it's not a one time usage item, it's a regular use item and will serve you for years.

And... You won't save money by buying a cheap unit. The X-Rite EyeOne Display 2 and the Spyder3 Elite are excellent and the Spyder3 Pro is very good. Check for used ones before buying new. I saved almost 50% on my Spyder3 Elite.

You may also want to check out the ColorMunki from x-rite. It pops up a reminder on your computer after 1,2, or 4 weeks (your choice) to remind you to re-profile. I don't own a Spyder, but I suspect they may also have the same feature.