Monitor Calibration

[1Wolf]

I just picked up an ASUS VG278H, and it looks like things might be "off" a bit and that maybe it could do with some calibration. The colors look a bit washed out. I've played with the "Splendid" modes and they all seem a bit extreme in one way or another. Either too washed out, or way too contrasted.

I've never calibrated a monitor before and don't know very much about it...I've always just used them as they were, right out of the box.

I'm running Windows 7 64-bit and an nVidia GTX card.

What do you guys suggest for calibration? Is there a built in Windows tool? Is there built in stuff in the nVidia panel that is generally preferred? Do you prefer an extrenal software package? Do you use a home theater calibration DVD?

I'm hoping to idiot-proof this as much as possible so I don't goof up the colors, brightness, and contrast of my monitor even worse

Thanks!